HEIC vs JPG: Which Image Format Should You Use?
Understand the differences between HEIC and JPG — file size, quality, compatibility, and when to convert between them.
HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) was introduced by Apple in iOS 11 as the default photo format for iPhones and iPads. It uses the HEVC codec to deliver the same visual quality as JPG at roughly half the file size.
JPG (also called JPEG) has been the universal image format for 30+ years. Every device, app, and web platform supports it. While its compression is less efficient than HEIC, its compatibility is unmatched.
When to use HEIC: On Apple devices where storage space matters and you are sharing primarily within the Apple ecosystem (AirDrop, iMessage, Apple Photos). HEIC also supports features JPG cannot: live photos, depth maps, and 10-bit color.
When to use JPG: For sharing on the web, sending via email, printing, uploading to social media, or working with any non-Apple software. JPG is the safe choice when you need guaranteed compatibility.
Converting between the two is straightforward with ConvertCraft's Image Converter. Drop your HEIC files and get JPGs instantly — or convert JPGs to HEIC if you want to save space on Apple devices. The conversion runs entirely in your browser.