What is a JPG file?
JPG (also written JPEG) is the most widely used photo format in the world. It uses lossy compression that throws away detail the eye barely notices, which keeps photos small, but it cannot store transparency and every re-save loses a little quality. JPG files usually carry EXIF metadata such as the camera model, the date and often the GPS location where the photo was taken.
| Full name | JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) |
|---|---|
| File extensions | .jpg, .jpeg, .jpe |
| MIME type | image/jpeg |
| Introduced | 1992 |
| Compression | Lossy |
| Transparency | No |
| Animation | No |
| Typical file size | Small |
| Best for | photographs, social media uploads and email attachments |
| Compatibility | Universal: every browser, phone, camera and image editor |
How to open a JPG file
Windows
Double-click to open in the Photos app. Paint, Edge and every image editor open JPG too.
Mac
Opens in Preview by double-clicking. Quick Look (select the file and press Space) shows it instantly.
iPhone and iPad
Saved JPGs appear in the Photos app; JPGs in the Files app open with a tap.
Android
Opens in Google Photos, Gallery or any file manager.
If none of these work, convert the file to a more widely supported format with one of the tools below.
Convert JPG files
Convert other files to JPG
Other tools for JPG files
JPG metadata and privacy
JPG photos from phones and cameras usually contain EXIF metadata: the camera model, date and time and often the GPS location. You can check a file with the EXIF viewer and remove it with the EXIF remover.
Remove metadata from JPG files · View the metadata
JPG compared with other formats
- JPG vs PNG: Use JPG for photos and PNG for screenshots, logos, text and anything that needs a transparent background.
- JPG vs WebP: WebP gives the same visual quality as JPG in smaller files and is ideal for websites. JPG remains the safest choice for sharing.
- HEIC vs JPG: HEIC saves space on your iPhone; JPG works everywhere else. Keep HEIC on the phone and convert to JPG when sharing.
- AVIF vs JPG: AVIF is the most efficient mainstream image format; JPG is the most compatible. Use AVIF on the web and JPG for everything else.
- TIFF vs JPG: TIFF is for scanning, printing and archiving at full quality; JPG is for sharing. Convert TIFF to JPG before you email or upload.
- JFIF vs JPG: They are the same image format. JFIF is only a different file extension, so converting to .jpg loses nothing.
- JPG vs PDF: JPG is an image; PDF is a document that can hold images, text and many pages. Put photos in a PDF when a form asks for a document or you need to send several images as one file.
Frequently asked questions
What is a JPG file?
JPG (also written JPEG) is the most widely used photo format in the world. It uses lossy compression that throws away detail the eye barely notices, which keeps photos small, but it cannot store transparency and every re-save loses a little quality.
How do I open a JPG file on Windows?
Double-click to open in the Photos app. Paint, Edge and every image editor open JPG too.
How do I open a JPG file on a Mac?
Opens in Preview by double-clicking. Quick Look (select the file and press Space) shows it instantly.
Is JPG lossy or lossless?
JPG uses lossy compression, so some detail is discarded each time the file is saved.
Does JPG support transparency?
No. Use PNG or WebP if you need a transparent background.
How do I convert JPG to another format?
Use one of the free converters on this page, for example JPG to SVG, JPG to PNG, JPG to WebP. Files are converted in your browser without being uploaded.