HEIC vs JPG: Which Format Should You Use?
Compare HEIC and JPG image formats to find the best choice for your photos. Learn about quality, file size, compatibility, and when to use each format.
If you've taken photos on an iPhone recently, you've probably noticed they save as HEIC files instead of JPG. That works fine until you try to upload, share, or open one on another device. Suddenly, JPG feels a lot easier. So when it comes to HEIC vs JPG, which format should you actually use?
The answer depends on how you take photos, where you use them, and who you share them with. This guide breaks down the differences between HEIC and JPG in plain language, so you can choose the right format without guessing.
What is a HEIC file?
HEIC stands for High Efficiency Image Container. Apple introduced it in 2017 with iOS 11 and made it the default photo format on iPhones and iPads.
HEIC files are designed to store high-quality images while using less space. They rely on modern compression technology originally developed for video, which allows them to keep more detail without large file sizes.
You'll usually see HEIC files with the .heic or .heif extension. For a deeper dive into this format, check out our complete guide to HEIC files.
What is a JPG file?
JPG, also known as JPEG, stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group, the organization that created the format. It has been around since the early 1990s and remains the most widely supported image format in the world.
JPG uses lossy compression, which reduces file size by discarding some image data. While this can slightly affect quality, it ensures JPG files open almost anywhere without compatibility issues.
HEIC vs JPG: Key differences at a glance
Here's a quick comparison to show how the two formats stack up:
| Feature | HEIC | JPG |
|---|---|---|
| File size | Smaller | Larger |
| Image quality | Higher at similar size | Lower at similar size |
| Color depth | 16-bit | 8-bit |
| Compatibility | Limited | Universal |
| Multiple images per file | Yes | No |
| Default on iPhone | Yes | No |
Image quality: HEIC vs JPG
HEIC generally delivers better image quality than JPG at similar file sizes. It supports 16-bit color, which allows smoother gradients, more accurate tones, and better handling of highlights and shadows.
JPG is limited to 8-bit color. For everyday photos, this often looks fine, but repeated editing and saving can reduce quality over time.
If image quality matters and you stay mostly within Apple's ecosystem, HEIC has a clear advantage.
File size and storage efficiency
One of the biggest reasons Apple moved to HEIC is storage efficiency.
On average, HEIC files are around 40–50% smaller than JPG files with comparable visual quality. That difference adds up quickly on phones with limited storage or when backing up photos to the cloud.
If you take a lot of photos, HEIC helps you save space without sacrificing clarity.
Compatibility and sharing
This is where JPG still wins.
JPG files open on nearly every device, browser, operating system, and website. You can upload them anywhere without worrying about format support.
HEIC files can cause friction:
- Windows may require additional extensions
- Some Android devices struggle with HEIC
- Many websites don't accept HEIC uploads
- Older software may not recognize the format
If you frequently share photos with non-Apple users or upload images online, JPG is often the safer option. Need to convert? Our HEIC to JPG converter makes it quick and easy.
Editing and workflow differences
HEIC supports advanced features such as:
- Non-destructive edits
- Depth data for portrait photos
- Multiple images stored in a single file (Live Photos and bursts)
These features work best within Apple's Photos app and compatible editors.
JPG is simpler. It doesn't support advanced metadata, but nearly every image editor can open and modify it, making it easier to use across different platforms and workflows.
HEIC vs JPG for specific use cases
Use HEIC if you:
- Take photos primarily on iPhone or iPad
- Want smaller file sizes without losing quality
- Edit photos within Apple's ecosystem
- Use features like HDR, depth data, or Live Photos
Use JPG if you:
- Share photos with Windows or Android users
- Upload images to websites or online forms
- Need guaranteed compatibility everywhere
- Work with older software or devices
Many people end up using both formats depending on the situation.
Can you switch between HEIC and JPG?
Yes. You're not locked into one format.
- iPhones can be set to capture photos as JPG instead of HEIC
- HEIC files can be converted to JPG or PDF when needed
- iOS often converts HEIC to JPG automatically when sharing photos via email
This flexibility is why HEIC works well as a capture format, even if you rely on JPG for sharing. Learn how to convert HEIC to JPG with our step-by-step guide.
Which format should you use?
A simple rule works for most people:
- Use HEIC for storage and photo capture
- Use JPG for sharing and compatibility
If you run into issues opening or uploading a HEIC file, converting it to JPG or PDF usually solves the problem in seconds.
Frequently asked questions about HEIC vs JPG
Is HEIC better quality than JPG?
Yes. HEIC supports higher color depth and more advanced compression than JPG, which allows it to preserve more detail at similar or smaller file sizes. For photos taken on iPhones, HEIC usually delivers better image quality.
Why does my iPhone use HEIC instead of JPG?
Apple uses HEIC to save storage space while keeping photos high quality. HEIC also supports features like Live Photos, burst images, and depth data that JPG doesn't handle as well.
Should I convert HEIC to JPG?
Convert HEIC to JPG when you need better compatibility, such as sharing photos with non-Apple users, uploading images to websites, or opening files on older devices. For storage and everyday photography, HEIC works well.