AVIF vs JPG: what's the difference?
Short answer: AVIF is the most efficient mainstream image format; JPG is the most compatible. Use AVIF on the web and JPG for everything else.
| AVIF | JPG | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | AV1 Image File Format | JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) |
| File extensions | .avif | .jpg, .jpeg, .jpe |
| MIME type | image/avif | image/jpeg |
| Introduced | 2019 | 1992 |
| Compression | Lossy and lossless | Lossy |
| Transparency | Yes (full alpha) | No |
| Animation | Yes | No |
| Typical file size | Smallest | Small |
| Best for | next-generation web images with the best compression available | photographs, social media uploads and email attachments |
| Compatibility | Modern browsers; poor support in desktop apps, Windows and upload forms | Universal: every browser, phone, camera and image editor |
File size
AVIF files are often 50% smaller than JPG at the same visual quality.
Image quality
AVIF avoids JPG's blocky artefacts at small sizes and supports transparency and HDR.
Transparency and animation
AVIF: transparency yes (full alpha), animation yes. JPG: transparency no, animation no.
Compatibility
AVIF: Modern browsers; poor support in desktop apps, Windows and upload forms.
JPG: Universal: every browser, phone, camera and image editor.
When to use AVIF
- Modern websites
- Saving bandwidth
When to use JPG
- Sharing, printing and uploading anywhere
- Editing in any app
Convert between AVIF and JPG
Frequently asked questions
Is AVIF better than JPG?
AVIF is the most efficient mainstream image format; JPG is the most compatible. Use AVIF on the web and JPG for everything else.
Which is smaller, AVIF or JPG?
AVIF files are often 50% smaller than JPG at the same visual quality.
Which has better quality, AVIF or JPG?
AVIF avoids JPG's blocky artefacts at small sizes and supports transparency and HDR.
How do I convert AVIF to JPG?
Open the free AVIF to JPG converter, add your files and download the results. It runs in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.