Convert Image

Why Convert Image Formats?

Different situations call for different image formats. A PNG screenshot for a bug report needs to become a JPEG for a presentation. A WebP image from a website needs to become a PNG for editing. A JPEG photo needs to become a WebP for faster web loading.

According to the HTTP Archive (2025), the median desktop web page weighs 2,862 KB, with images making up the largest share. Choosing the right format matters — WebP images are 25–34% smaller than equivalent JPEGs (Google, 2024), while PNG preserves transparency needed for logos and graphics.

Common scenarios where you need to convert image formats:

• Web development: Convert JPEG/PNG images to WebP for 25-35% smaller files and faster page loads. WebP is supported by all modern browsers.
• Email and compatibility: Some older systems don't support WebP. Converting to JPEG or PNG ensures your images open everywhere.
• Print preparation: Print shops typically require JPEG or TIFF. Converting your WebP or PNG files to JPEG ensures compatibility.
• Preserving transparency: Need to keep a transparent background? Convert from JPEG to PNG, then edit the background in your image editor.
• Reducing file size: Convert lossless PNG screenshots to JPEG for much smaller files when perfect quality isn't needed.

How PDFJolt Converts Images Differently

Most online image converters (CloudConvert, Convertio, FreeConvert) upload your files to cloud servers. Your private screenshots, personal photos, and sensitive documents pass through third-party infrastructure.

PDFJolt converts images entirely in your browser using the HTML Canvas API. The conversion engine runs locally — your files never touch any server. This means complete privacy, faster processing, and the ability to work offline.

Image Format Comparison Guide

Feature	JPEG	PNG	WebP
Compression	Lossy	Lossless	Both
Transparency	No	Yes	Yes
Best for	Photos	Screenshots, logos	Web (all types)
File size	Small	Large	Smallest
Browser support	Universal	Universal	All modern
Print compatible	Yes	Yes	Limited

PDFJolt vs. Other Image Converters

Feature	PDFJolt	CloudConvert	Convertio	FreeConvert
Price	Free (5/day)	25 free/day	10 free/day	25 free/day
Privacy	Client-side	Cloud upload	Cloud upload	Cloud upload
Quality control	Adjustable	Adjustable	Limited	Limited
Speed	Instant	Queue-based	Queue-based	Queue-based
Account required	No	For API	For more	No
Works offline	Yes	No	No	No

When to Use Each Format

Choose JPEG when:

• You're working with photographs or complex images
• File size matters more than perfect quality
• You need maximum compatibility (email, print, older devices)
• The image doesn't need transparency

Choose PNG when:

• You need perfect, lossless quality
• Your image has text, sharp edges, or flat colors
• You need transparency (logos, overlays, UI elements)
• You're creating screenshots or technical diagrams

Choose WebP when:

• Images are for a website or web application
• You want the smallest file size with great quality
• You need both lossy and lossless options
• Your audience uses modern browsers