How to convert JPG to WebP, and when you should not
WebP makes most photographs meaningfully smaller than JPEG. Here is how to convert, what quality to pick, and the cases where JPEG is still the right answer.
Why WebP is worth the switch
WebP uses a more modern compression method than JPEG and typically produces files 25 to 35% smaller at the same perceived quality. On an image-heavy page that can cut load time noticeably, particularly on mobile connections.
It also supports transparency and animation, which JPEG does not, so one format covers cases that previously needed PNG or GIF.
How to convert
Open the JPG to WebP tool, drop your file in, pick a quality between 75% and 85% and convert. The tool shows the original size, the new size and the percentage saved before you download, so you can adjust if the saving is disappointing.
Conversion happens in your browser using a canvas, so the photo is never uploaded.
When to stay with JPEG
If you must support very old browsers or devices, or if a platform you publish to does not accept WebP uploads, JPEG remains the compatible choice. Some email clients and older content systems are still picky.
Converting an already small JPEG can also produce a marginally larger WebP. Always check the size comparison before replacing the original.
A sensible workflow
Keep the original camera file. Resize a copy to the dimensions you actually display, convert that copy to WebP, and publish it. If you need a fallback, export a JPEG from the same resized copy rather than from the WebP.
Tools mentioned in this guide
Frequently asked questions
Does converting to WebP lose quality?
At the default settings, yes, slightly, which is how the file shrinks. At 80% quality the difference is invisible at normal viewing sizes.
Can I convert back to JPG later?
You can, but detail lost in the WebP encode will not return. Always convert back from the original instead.
Do all browsers support WebP?
Every current version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari and Edge does. Only long-unsupported browsers do not.
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