WebP to JPG: When You Need Conversion and How to Do It Right
What is WebP Format?
WebP is a modern image format developed by Google in 2010. It was created to replace traditional JPG and PNG formats on the web.
Google developed WebP based on the VP8 codec used in the WebM video format. The main goal is to reduce image sizes without losing visual quality.
The format supports both lossy and lossless compression, as well as transparency and animation. WebP uses predictive coding to achieve better compression.
WebP Advantages:
- ✓25-35% smaller file size compared to JPG with similar quality
- ✓Transparency support (alpha channel) like PNG, but with smaller size
- ✓Ability to create animated images (GIF alternative)
- ✓Metadata support (EXIF, XMP)
WebP Disadvantages:
- ⚠Limited support in older graphic editors (Photoshop CS6 and older)
- ⚠Some platforms and services don't accept WebP file uploads
- ⚠Slower processing compared to JPG on some devices
- ⚠No support in print production
Why Convert WebP to JPG/PNG?
Despite WebP's advantages, there are many situations when conversion to more traditional formats is necessary:
Software Compatibility
Many graphic editors, especially older versions, don't open WebP files. Adobe Photoshop before version 23.2 (2022) required additional plugins. GIMP, Paint.NET and other editors also have limited support.
Platform Uploads
Some image upload platforms don't accept WebP: social networks (partially), marketplaces (Etsy, some Amazon categories), forums, and older content management systems.
Printing and Professional Processing
Print shops and printers don't work with WebP. Printing photos, business cards, banners requires JPG, PNG or TIFF formats. Professional pre-press equipment requires standard formats.
Presentations and Documents
Older versions of Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Word) don't support WebP. PDF documents work better with JPG/PNG. Many electronic document management systems require traditional formats.
When Conversion is NOT Needed?
It's important to understand that WebP is the optimal choice for many modern applications:
Modern Browsers
According to Can I Use, WebP is supported by over 95% of browsers: Chrome (since version 17), Firefox (since version 65), Safari (since version 14), Edge (since version 18). If your audience uses modern browsers, WebP is the best choice.
Websites and Web Applications
For websites, WebP provides: faster page loading, less traffic (~30% savings), better Core Web Vitals scores, higher Google ranking. Converting to JPG will reduce these benefits.
Modern CMS
WordPress (since version 5.8), Shopify, Wix, Squarespace and other popular CMS fully support WebP. Many automatically convert uploaded JPGs to WebP for optimization.
Web Optimization
If your goal is maximum website performance, keep WebP. Use the picture element with fallback for older browsers. Configure CDN for automatic WebP delivery to supporting browsers.
How to Convert WebP to JPG?
There are several conversion methods, but the simplest and fastest is using our free Chrome extension.
Our Chrome Extension
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1. Install WebP to JPG extension from Chrome Web Store (free)
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2. Open the extension's side panel (click the icon)
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3. Drag and drop WebP files into the extension window or select through dialog
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4. Choose output format (JPG or PNG) and quality (we recommend 85-95%)
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5. Use the cropping tool if needed
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6. Click 'Convert' button — files will download automatically
Our Extension Advantages:
- ✓Works completely offline — files are not uploaded to any server
- ✓Batch processing — convert dozens of files simultaneously
- ✓Built-in cropping tool
- ✓Compression quality adjustment
- ✓Instant processing speed
Alternative Methods
Online services: Online services: CloudConvert, Convertio, Online-Convert. Cons: require file uploads to server, file size limitations, may be paid.
Desktop apps: Desktop applications: XnConvert, IrfanView, GIMP. Cons: require installation, more complex for beginners.
Command line: Command line: cwebp/dwebp Google utilities. Cons: require technical knowledge, not suitable for regular users.
Quality Selection Recommendations
- • JPG 90-95%: for photos that will be used in printing or professional processing
- • JPG 85%: optimal balance of quality and size for web use
- • JPG 70-80%: for previews, thumbnails, when minimal size is important
- • PNG: when transparency or absolute lossless quality is needed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is quality lost when converting WebP to JPG?▼
Yes, some quality loss is inevitable when converting from one lossy format to another. WebP and JPG use different compression algorithms, so conversion involves double compression. However, with high quality settings (90%+), the difference is visually imperceptible for most images. If the source WebP was saved in lossless mode, losses will be minimal.
Can you convert JPG back to WebP?▼
Yes, you can! Moreover, converting JPG to WebP often makes more sense for web use. WebP will provide smaller file size with the same quality. Our extension will support this function in future versions. Currently, you can use online services or Google utilities (cwebp).
Is it safe to use the extension? Where do my files go?▼
Absolutely safe! Our extension works completely offline — all processing happens locally in your browser. Files are NOT sent to any servers. We don't collect, store, or have access to your images. The extension code can be verified in Chrome Web Store — it passes Google's security review.
Does the extension work offline?▼
Yes, the extension works completely offline after installation. You don't need internet connection for file conversion. All operations are performed locally on your computer using the browser's Canvas API.
What's the maximum file size that can be converted?▼
The limit depends on your computer's RAM. The extension successfully processes files up to 50-100 MB. For very large files (100+ MB), we recommend using desktop applications.
Is batch conversion supported?▼
Yes! You can select or drag multiple files at once. The extension will process them sequentially and download all converted images. This significantly saves time when working with many files.
Conclusion
WebP is an excellent format for web use, providing smaller size with good quality. However, for compatibility with older programs, printing, and uploading to some platforms, conversion to JPG or PNG is still required. Our free Chrome extension makes this process as simple and safe as possible.