JPEG, PNG, WebP, AVIF, or HEIC: Which Format Should You Upload?
Compare JPEG, PNG, WebP, AVIF, HEIC, and HEIF for visible watermark repair, output quality, transparency, compatibility, and file size.
Delete SynthID accepts JPEG, PNG, WebP, AVIF, HEIC, and HEIF images up to 20 MB. Format matters, but the simplest rule is also the most useful: upload the highest-quality original you have instead of converting it just to match a preference.
Quick format comparison
| Format | Best for | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| PNG | Graphics, text, sharp edges, transparency | Large photographic files |
| JPEG / JPG | Photographs and broad compatibility | Lossy artifacts after repeated saves |
| WebP | Web images with good size and quality | Older editing workflows |
| AVIF | Small modern web assets and HDR-capable workflows | Slower decoding and uneven app support |
| HEIC / HEIF | Original photos from Apple devices | Compatibility outside Apple-oriented tools |
PNG: safest for graphics and hard edges
PNG uses lossless compression, so saving does not add block artifacts around text, logos, illustrations, or interface elements. It is a strong working format when the source already is PNG or when transparency matters. Converting a compressed JPEG to PNG does not restore the detail the JPEG already lost; it only prevents another lossy save.
JPEG: practical for photographs
JPEG is widely supported and efficient for natural photographs. Its compression can create ringing around high-contrast edges and blockiness in smooth gradients, especially after repeated exports. If JPEG is your original, upload that original. Avoid opening and resaving it through several apps before processing.
WebP and AVIF: efficient modern delivery formats
WebP and AVIF can deliver strong visual quality at smaller sizes than older formats. They are sensible when the generated source already uses them or when your final destination supports them. They are less convenient if a client’s publishing system or older editor expects JPEG or PNG, so confirm compatibility before processing a large batch.
HEIC and HEIF: keep phone originals intact
HEIC and HEIF are common for high-efficiency phone photos. Keeping the original avoids an unnecessary conversion before repair. If the final platform does not accept HEIC, convert once after processing using a high-quality export and compare color and orientation with the source.
A reliable format workflow
- Locate the original download rather than a screenshot or chat-app copy.
- Upload it in its existing supported format.
- Inspect the processed result before any resize or optimization step.
- Create a separate delivery copy for the website, print shop, or social platform.
- Keep the original and processed master so future exports do not stack compression loss.
Last reviewed July 15, 2026. This guide is general product and publishing information, not legal advice.