How to Convert JPG to AVIF

What converting JPG to AVIF does

AVIF is a modern image format based on the AV1 video codec. Converting a JPG to AVIF usually produces a smaller file at the same visible quality, which can help pages load faster. The result is a new .avif file; your original JPG remains unchanged unless you deliberately overwrite it.

Before you convert

• Start with the highest-quality JPG you have. AVIF cannot restore detail that was already lost in an earlier JPG compression
• Decide whether you need full color or can accept a smaller file with reduced quality
• Check where the AVIF will be used, because not every older browser or application supports it
• Check the original image orientation and metadata, because some conversion tools may not preserve every field

How to convert JPG to AVIF

The exact method depends on the tool you already use. The basic workflow is the same: open or point the tool at the JPG, choose AVIF as the output format, set the quality if the tool allows it, and save or export the result.

Image editors and converters

• Open the JPG in the editor
• Choose Export, Save As, or Convert
• Select AVIF or AV1 Image File as the format
• The editor may offer a quality, speed, or compression setting; choose a balanced setting first
• The tool normally shows a preview or reports the estimated output size
• Click Save or Export and note where the new file is placed

Command-line conversion

If you have an image tool that supports AVIF from the command line, you can convert a file with a command that names the input JPG and the output AVIF. You also normally specify a quality value that balances file size and visual quality. After the command runs, check that the output file was created in the expected folder.

How to confirm the conversion worked

• Open the folder where you asked the tool to save the file
• Verify there is a new file ending in .avif
• Open the AVIF in an application or browser that supports AVIF
• Compare it with the original JPG for sharpness, color, and any visible compression artifacts
• If the AVIF looks visibly worse, convert again with a higher quality setting

When to be careful

AVIF is not a drop-in replacement in every situation. Some older software cannot display it, and certain workflows may require JPG, PNG, or another format. If you need the image to work everywhere, keep a JPG copy or provide a fallback. Also check whether your conversion tool removed color-profile or copyright metadata that you need.

Finding the right tool

Check the Save As, Export, or Convert options in the image software you already use. If it does not list AVIF, search for a converter that specifically states AVIF support for your operating system. The supplied guidance does not include a specific downloadable tool name or compatibility claim, so you may need to verify the current version of an application before relying on it.