What is a WebP file?
WebP is a modern format created by Google for the web. It is typically 25 to 35 percent smaller than an equivalent JPG and supports transparency and animation, which is why so many websites now serve it. The downside is compatibility: older versions of Photoshop, Windows Photo Viewer, many printers and lots of upload forms still cannot open WebP files.
| Full name | WebP (Google) |
|---|---|
| File extensions | .webp |
| MIME type | image/webp |
| Introduced | 2010 |
| Compression | Lossy and lossless |
| Transparency | Yes (full alpha) |
| Animation | Yes |
| Typical file size | Very small |
| Best for | websites, because it is 25-35% smaller than JPG at the same quality |
| Compatibility | All modern browsers; some older desktop apps and upload forms still reject it |
How to open a WebP file
Windows
Opens in Edge, Chrome and recent versions of Photos. Older Photo Viewer and Paint can't open it.
Mac
Preview opens WebP on macOS Big Sur (11) and later; older versions need a browser.
iPhone and iPad
iOS 14 and later display WebP in Safari and Files.
Android
Supported by Chrome and most gallery apps.
If none of these work, convert the file to a more widely supported format with one of the tools below.
Convert WebP files
Convert other files to WebP
Other tools for WebP files
WebP metadata and privacy
WebP files can carry EXIF and XMP metadata copied from the original photo, including GPS coordinates.
Remove metadata from WebP files · View the metadata
WebP compared with other formats
- PNG vs WebP: WebP does almost everything PNG does at a fraction of the size, but PNG still opens in more places.
- 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.
- AVIF vs WebP: AVIF compresses better than WebP, but WebP is faster to encode and supported in more places.
- GIF vs WebP: Animated WebP is a modern replacement for GIF: smaller files and full colour, but not every app plays it.
Frequently asked questions
What is a WebP file?
WebP is a modern format created by Google for the web. It is typically 25 to 35 percent smaller than an equivalent JPG and supports transparency and animation, which is why so many websites now serve it.
How do I open a WebP file on Windows?
Opens in Edge, Chrome and recent versions of Photos. Older Photo Viewer and Paint can't open it.
How do I open a WebP file on a Mac?
Preview opens WebP on macOS Big Sur (11) and later; older versions need a browser.
Is WebP lossy or lossless?
WebP uses lossy compression, so some detail is discarded each time the file is saved.
Does WebP support transparency?
Yes: (full alpha).
How do I convert WebP to another format?
Use one of the free converters on this page, for example WebP to JPG, WebP to PNG, WebP to PDF. Files are converted in your browser without being uploaded.