What Is HEIC?
HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is an image format developed by the MPEG group and adopted by Apple in 2017. Starting with iOS 11, iPhones save photos in HEIC format by default.
HEIC uses the HEVC (H.265) codec for compression, which delivers significantly better image quality at smaller file sizes compared to JPG. A typical HEIC photo is about 50% smaller than an equivalent JPG while maintaining the same visual quality.
What Is JPG/JPEG?
JPG (also called JPEG — Joint Photographic Experts Group) is the most widely used image format in the world. Created in 1992, it's supported by virtually every device, browser, and application.
JPG uses lossy compression, meaning it reduces file size by discarding some image data. At high quality settings, this loss is imperceptible to the human eye. JPG is the default format for web images, email attachments, and most digital cameras.
HEIC vs JPG: Key Differences
| Feature | HEIC | JPG |
|---|---|---|
| File size | ~50% smaller | Larger |
| Image quality | Superior at same size | Good |
| Transparency | Supported | Not supported |
| Animation | Supported | Not supported |
| Compatibility | Limited (Apple, newer Android) | Universal |
| Web support | Partial | Full |
| Editing support | Limited | Universal |
| Color depth | 16-bit | 8-bit |
When to Use HEIC
HEIC is ideal when:
- You're in the Apple ecosystem — iPhones, iPads, and Macs handle HEIC natively. It saves significant storage space on your device.
- Storage space matters — HEIC files are roughly half the size of JPGs, so you can store twice as many photos.
- You want maximum quality — HEIC preserves more detail and supports 16-bit color depth, making it better for photography.
- You don't need to share widely — if your photos stay on your Apple devices, HEIC is the best choice.
When to Use JPG
JPG is the better choice when:
- You're sharing with others — not everyone has a device that can open HEIC files. JPG works everywhere.
- You're uploading to the web — most websites, social media platforms, and email clients expect JPG.
- You're editing photos — Photoshop, GIMP, and most editors have full JPG support. HEIC support is still catching up.
- You need maximum compatibility — JPG is the safe choice for documents, presentations, and print.
How to Convert HEIC to JPG
If you need to convert HEIC photos to JPG for sharing or compatibility:
- 1. Use Reformat's HEIC to JPG converter — upload your HEIC file and get a JPG in seconds. No sign-up needed.
- 2. On iPhone — go to Settings → Camera → Formats → Most Compatible. This makes the camera save as JPG instead of HEIC.
- 3. On Mac — open the HEIC file in Preview, then File → Export → select JPEG.
- 4. On Windows — install the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store, then use Paint or Photos to save as JPG.
The easiest method for batch conversion is an online tool — just drag and drop multiple files and download them all as JPGs.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is minimal quality loss when converting from HEIC to JPG at high quality settings. For most uses (sharing, web, social media), the difference is imperceptible.
Can I change my iPhone to save photos as JPG?Yes. Go to Settings → Camera → Formats → Most Compatible. This saves all new photos as JPG instead of HEIC.
Do Android phones support HEIC?Newer Android phones (Android 9+) can open HEIC files, but most still save photos as JPG by default. Support varies by manufacturer.
Is HEIC the same as HEIF?HEIF (High Efficiency Image Format) is the broader standard. HEIC is a specific implementation that uses HEVC compression. In practice, they're used interchangeably.