Image Formats5 min read
What Is AVIF?
An overview of AVIF: compression, transparency, comparison with WebP, and when to convert JPG or PNG to AVIF for modern websites.
AVIF is a still-image format based on the AV1 video codec. It aims to store high-quality images in fewer bytes than older formats, which is useful when page weight matters.
Compression
On many photographs, AVIF can match a JPG’s appearance at a smaller size, or look cleaner at a similar size. Results depend on the encoder, quality setting, and image content. Treat AVIF as an option to test—not a guaranteed win on every file.
Transparency
AVIF can include transparency, similar to WebP and PNG. That helps when converting UI graphics, not only camera photos.
AVIF compared with WebP
- Both target efficient web delivery and can support transparency.
- AVIF often compresses photos further, but encoding can be slower.
- WebP may be simpler when you already standardize on it across a site.
Read the fuller comparison in JPG vs WebP vs AVIF.
Practical web usage
- Convert a few representative images to AVIF.
- Check quality and size against WebP/JPG alternatives.
- Confirm the images display in the browsers your audience uses.
- Batch convert once you are satisfied.
FAQ
Common questions
Will every browser open AVIF?
Support in current major browsers is strong, but older browsers and some apps may not. Offer a fallback (WebP or JPG) when you control the HTML, or keep JPG when compatibility is critical.
Related Guides
Related Tools
- JPG to AVIFConvert JPG photos to AVIF without uploading them.
- PNG to AVIFConvert PNG graphics to AVIF and keep transparency.
- AVIF ConverterConvert between AVIF and JPG, PNG, or WebP in the browser.
- AVIF to WebPConvert AVIF images to WebP without uploading them.