How to Convert HEIC to JPG (Step-by-Step Guide)
Learn how to convert HEIC to JPG using online tools, iPhone settings, Mac Preview, and Windows. Step-by-step instructions for all methods.
If you use an iPhone, your photos are saved in HEIC format by default. While HEIC keeps file sizes small and image quality high, it causes problems when you need to share photos, upload images online, or open them on Windows systems.
Converting HEIC to JPG removes those compatibility issues instantly.
This guide walks through the most reliable ways to convert HEIC to JPG, including online tools, iPhone settings, and built-in options on macOS and Windows. Not sure which format is right for you? Check out our HEIC vs JPG comparison guide for a detailed breakdown.
Why Convert HEIC to JPG?
HEIC works well inside Apple's ecosystem, but JPG remains the most widely supported image format. Converting makes sense when you need broader compatibility.
Common reasons include:
- Windows compatibility: Most Windows PCs can't open HEIC files without extra extensions
- Website uploads: Many platforms only accept JPG or PNG
- Email sharing: Recipients may not be able to view HEIC images
- Software support: Design and editing tools often require JPG
- Printing services: Print shops typically prefer JPG files
- Universal access: JPG works on nearly every device and browser
Method 1: Convert HEIC to JPG Online (Fastest Option)
An online HEIC to JPG converter is the quickest solution. No installs. No account required.
How to convert HEIC to JPG online:
- Visit heicconverteronline.com
- Upload your HEIC files or drag and drop them
- Choose JPG as the output format
- Click Convert
- Download your converted JPG files
Online converters work on iPhone, iPad, Android, Windows, and macOS. As long as you have a browser, you can convert HEIC files in seconds.
Method 2: Change iPhone Camera Settings to Save JPG
If you want to stop creating HEIC files altogether, you can switch your iPhone camera to JPG.
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Tap Camera
- Select Formats
- Choose Most Compatible
New photos will now save as JPG instead of HEIC. Keep in mind that JPG files take up more storage space, and this setting does not convert existing photos.
Method 3: Automatically Convert HEIC When Transferring Photos
Your iPhone can convert HEIC files to JPG when transferring photos to a computer.
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Tap Photos
- Scroll to Transfer to Mac or PC
- Select Automatic
Your iPhone keeps the original HEIC files, while your computer receives JPG versions during transfer.
Method 4: Convert HEIC to JPG on Mac Using Preview
Mac users can convert HEIC images without installing anything.
Steps:
- Open the HEIC file in Preview
- Click File → Export
- Select JPEG as the format
- Adjust the quality slider if needed
- Click Save
Preview works well for individual files, but it's not ideal for large batches.
Method 5: Convert HEIC to JPG on Windows
Windows users need to install HEIC support first.
Steps:
- Open the Microsoft Store
- Search for HEIF Image Extensions
- Install the free extension from Microsoft
- Open HEIC files using the Photos app
- Export images as JPG
This enables viewing and basic conversion, but batch processing is slower than using an online converter.
Batch Converting Multiple HEIC Files
If you're converting dozens of photos, batch conversion saves time. Learn more in our batch conversion guide.
Look for a HEIC to JPG converter that supports:
- Multiple file uploads
- Parallel processing
- ZIP downloads
- Folder uploads
HEIC Converter Online allows batch uploads of up to 50 files and provides a single ZIP download.
HEIC to JPG Quality Considerations
A few things to know before converting:
- HEIC supports higher color depth than JPG
- JPG uses lossy compression
- Minor quality loss is typically unnoticeable
- Higher JPG quality settings increase file size
- For lossless results, consider PNG instead
For web use, email, and social media, JPG quality differences are rarely visible. For more details on quality settings, see our image quality guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will converting HEIC to JPG reduce image quality?
There's a small amount of compression, but it's not noticeable for everyday use. Use higher quality settings if image detail matters.
Can I convert HEIC to JPG on an iPhone?
Yes. You can upload photos directly from your Photos app to an online HEIC to JPG converter and save the JPG files back to your device.
Is it safe to convert HEIC files online?
Trusted converters process files securely and remove them shortly after conversion. Photos are not stored or shared.
Why are JPG files larger than HEIC?
HEIC uses more efficient compression. JPG files are often 50–100% larger after conversion, which is expected.
Conclusion
Converting HEIC to JPG removes compatibility issues and makes sharing photos simple. Online converters offer the fastest solution, while built-in options work well for occasional use.
If you want a quick, free way to convert HEIC to JPG, heicconverteronline.com lets you upload, convert, and download your images in seconds.