WebP Format Guide - The Modern Image Format Explained

WebP is Google's modern image format that provides superior compression for images on the web. It's now supported by all major browsers and offers the best of both JPG and PNG.

What is WebP?

A Modern Standard

WebP was developed by Google and released in 2010. It combines:

• Lossy compression (like JPG)
• Lossless compression (like PNG)
• Animation support (like GIF)
• Transparency support (like PNG)

Browser Support

WebP is now supported by:

• Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari
• Android and iOS browsers
• All modern browsers (95%+ coverage)

WebP vs Other Formats

WebP vs JPG

WebP vs PNG

When to Use WebP

Ideal For:

• Website images
• Web applications
• Social media (if supported)
• Any online use

Consider Alternatives When:

• Maximum compatibility needed
• Print/professional use
• Older software required
• Email attachments

Converting To and From WebP

Convert Images to WebP

1. Upload JPG, PNG, or other format
2. Select WebP as output
3. Choose quality (80% recommended)
4. Download smaller WebP file

Convert WebP to JPG/PNG

Need compatibility? Convert WebP back:

1. Upload your WebP file
2. Select JPG or PNG
3. Convert and download

Quality Settings for WebP

Lossy WebP (Photos)

• 80-85%: Best balance
• 75-80%: Good for web
• Below 75%: Visible artifacts

Lossless WebP (Graphics)

• Use for screenshots
• Perfect quality preservation
• Still smaller than PNG

WebP for Websites

Performance Benefits

• Faster page loads
• Lower bandwidth costs
• Better Core Web Vitals
• Improved SEO rankings

Implementation Tips

<picture>
  <source srcset="image.webp" type="image/webp">
  <img src="image.jpg" alt="Description">
</picture>

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is WebP better than JPG? A: For web use, yes. WebP offers same quality at smaller sizes.

Q: Can I open WebP in Photoshop? A: Newer versions support WebP. Older versions need plugins or conversion.

Q: Should I convert all my images to WebP? A: For websites, yes. For archives and print, keep originals.

Q: Does WebP support EXIF data? A: Yes, WebP preserves metadata like JPG.

Convert to WebP Free