How to Use an Image Compressor to Reduce Photo Size
Image compression can make a photo easier to upload or share. Choose a supported image, select a quality setting and compare the output with the original before replacing or publishing it.
Compress an image in the browser
- Choose a supported image file from your device.
- Review the preview and original pixel dimensions.
- Set the output dimensions if you need to resize as well as compress.
- Choose a quality level and process the image.
- Compare visual detail and file size, then download the copy that suits the destination.
Quality, dimensions and file size
Lower quality and smaller pixel dimensions usually reduce file size, but can introduce visible artifacts or soften fine details. The best setting depends on the image and where it will appear.
Choose a suitable output format
JPEG is often practical for photographs; PNG is useful when transparency or crisp edges matter. Browser support and the selected export format can affect the result.
Quality and size work together
There are two ways to make a picture smaller: lower the quality, or reduce the number of pixels. If the picture is much bigger than the place where it will be shown, for example a 4000 pixel photo that appears 800 pixels wide, set smaller dimensions first, because that saves more than lowering quality does. Then lower the quality in small steps and look at faces and text after each step, and stop when the picture starts to look blocky or blurry.
Choosing the output format
JPEG is usually the best choice for photographs, because it makes small files. PNG keeps sharp edges and transparency, but a PNG photograph often stays large, so compressing it may not help much. If a PNG photograph is too big and you do not need transparency, convert it with PNG to JPG first. Always compare the new file with the original before you replace anything.
Meeting an upload limit
Forms often state a maximum file size, such as a number of kilobytes, and sometimes a pixel size as well. Resize to the pixel size they ask for, compress, then check the file size in your phone's file manager or in the file properties on a computer. If it is still too large, lower the quality a little and try again. Compress from the original each time, because saving a compressed picture again and again loses more detail.
Frequently asked questions
Will compression always make the file smaller?
Not always. Source format, image content and selected settings affect the output size. Compare the generated file before using it.
Does this upload my image?
The available image workflow processes the selected file in the browser and starts a download on your device.
How do I get a photo under a size limit?
Resize it to the size the form asks for, then lower the quality step by step until the file is below the limit, checking the picture each time.
Which helps more, lower quality or smaller dimensions?
For a large photo, smaller dimensions. Use both when you need a very small file.
Is my picture uploaded?
No. The picture is processed in your browser.
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