AVIF vs WebP: what's the difference?

Short answer: AVIF compresses better than WebP, but WebP is faster to encode and supported in more places.

AVIFWebP
Full nameAV1 Image File FormatWebP (Google)
File extensions.avif.webp
MIME typeimage/avifimage/webp
Introduced20192010
CompressionLossy and losslessLossy and lossless
TransparencyYes (full alpha)Yes (full alpha)
AnimationYesYes
Typical file sizeSmallestVery small
Best fornext-generation web images with the best compression availablewebsites, because it is 25-35% smaller than JPG at the same quality
CompatibilityModern browsers; poor support in desktop apps, Windows and upload formsAll modern browsers; some older desktop apps and upload forms still reject it

File size

AVIF is often another 20% smaller than WebP at the same quality.

Image quality

AVIF handles gradients and low bitrates better and supports HDR; WebP can show banding sooner.

Transparency and animation

AVIF: transparency yes (full alpha), animation yes. WebP: transparency yes (full alpha), animation yes.

Compatibility

AVIF: Modern browsers; poor support in desktop apps, Windows and upload forms.

WebP: All modern browsers; some older desktop apps and upload forms still reject it.

When to use AVIF

  • High-traffic websites wanting the smallest images
  • HDR photos

When to use WebP

  • Broad compatibility on the web
  • Quick encoding for many images
  • Animated images

Convert between AVIF and WebP

Frequently asked questions

Is AVIF better than WebP?

AVIF compresses better than WebP, but WebP is faster to encode and supported in more places.

Which is smaller, AVIF or WebP?

AVIF is often another 20% smaller than WebP at the same quality.

Which has better quality, AVIF or WebP?

AVIF handles gradients and low bitrates better and supports HDR; WebP can show banding sooner.

How do I convert AVIF to WebP?

Open the free AVIF to WebP converter, add your files and download the results. It runs in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.