Introduction
WebP is a modern image format developed by Google that offers superior compression for images on the web. However, due to compatibility issues with some software and platforms, you might need to convert WebP images to more widely supported formats like JPG or PNG. This guide will explore various methods to convert WebP images using different tools, including Windows built-in applications, open-source software, and third-party applications, and compare the results.
Using Windows Built-in Applications
Microsoft Paint: Paint is a simple yet effective tool for converting WebP images. To convert a WebP image using Paint, open the image in Paint, go to “File,” select “Save As,” and choose either JPG or PNG. Paint is readily available on all Windows systems, making it a convenient option. However, it offers limited editing capabilities and might not be suitable for batch conversions.
Windows Photos App: The Photos app in Windows 10 and 11 can also handle WebP images. Open the image in Photos, click on the “Edit & Create” button, and select “Save a copy.” You can then choose the desired format. The Photos app provides a more user-friendly interface than Paint but still lacks advanced editing features.
Using Open-Source Software
GIMP: GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a powerful open-source image editor that supports WebP files. To convert a WebP image in GIMP, open the image, go to “File,” select “Export As,” and choose the desired format (JPG or PNG). GIMP offers extensive editing tools and supports batch processing through scripts, making it ideal for users who need more control over their images.
ImageMagick: ImageMagick is a command-line tool that can convert WebP images to various formats, including JPG and PNG. To convert an image, use the command convert input.webp output.jpg or convert input.webp output.png. ImageMagick is highly versatile and supports batch processing, but it requires familiarity with command-line operations.
Using Third-Party Software
IrfanView: IrfanView is a lightweight image viewer and converter that supports WebP files. To convert an image, open it in IrfanView, go to “File,” select “Save As,” and choose the desired format. IrfanView is fast and efficient, making it suitable for quick conversions. It also supports batch processing, which is useful for converting multiple images at once.
XnConvert: XnConvert is a free cross-platform batch image processor that supports over 500 formats, including WebP. To convert WebP images, add the images to XnConvert, select the output format (JPG or PNG), and start the conversion. XnConvert offers a user-friendly interface and advanced features like filters and effects, making it a robust option for batch conversions.
Online Converters: Websites like Convertio and CloudConvert allow you to convert WebP images to JPG or PNG online. These tools are convenient for quick conversions without installing software. However, they may have file size limitations and require an internet connection.
Comparison of Results
- Quality: All methods generally maintain the quality of the original WebP image. However, the quality of the output can vary slightly depending on the tool and settings used. GIMP and ImageMagick offer more control over the conversion settings, allowing for higher quality outputs.
- Speed: IrfanView and XnConvert are fast and efficient, especially for batch conversions. Online converters can be slower due to upload and download times.
- Ease of Use: Windows built-in applications are the easiest to use, requiring no additional installations. GIMP and ImageMagick offer more advanced features but have steeper learning curves. Third-party software like IrfanView and XnConvert strikes a balance between ease of use and functionality.
- Batch Processing: For converting multiple images, XnConvert and ImageMagick are the best options due to their robust batch processing capabilities. IrfanView also supports batch processing but with fewer advanced options.
Conclusion
Converting WebP images to JPG or PNG can be done using various tools, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Windows built-in applications are convenient for quick, single-image conversions. Open-source software like GIMP and ImageMagick offers advanced features and batch processing capabilities. Third-party software like IrfanView and XnConvert provides a good balance of ease of use and functionality. Choose the tool that best fits your needs based on the complexity of your tasks and your familiarity with the software.