iPhone and iPad photos shoot in HEIC format by default since iOS 11 (2017). HEIC files offer excellent compression and quality, but they're not supported by most Windows applications, older Android devices, or many web services. Converting HEIC to JPG is a common daily task for iPhone users. Here's how the best tools compare in 2026.
Why HEIC compatibility is still a problem
Despite being nearly 10 years old, HEIC support is still inconsistent. Windows 11 can display HEIC thumbnails but many Windows applications can't open HEIC files without a codec pack. Most web uploads still expect JPEG or PNG. Even Google Photos and social media platforms silently convert HEIC on upload, sometimes degrading quality.
1. Picovert — Best browser-based converter
Picovert's HEIC converter runs entirely in your browser using the browser's built-in HEIC decoder (available in Chrome 105+ and Safari). No installation, no upload to any server, and supports batch conversion of multiple HEIC files at once.
- Privacy: ✅ browser-only, nothing uploaded
- Batch: unlimited
- Output formats: JPG, PNG, WebP
- Quality control: ✅ adjustable
- Platform: Chrome 105+, Safari, Edge
- Cost: free
Note: HEIC decoding in Firefox requires a system-level codec. Use Chrome or Safari for best compatibility.
2. iMazing HEIC Converter (Mac/Windows desktop)
Free desktop app for Mac and Windows. Drag and drop HEIC files, convert to JPEG or PNG. Fast, offline, no quality loss. Simple interface. Best for users who prefer a dedicated desktop tool over a browser.
- Privacy: ✅ fully offline
- Batch: ✅ unlimited
- Output: JPEG, PNG
- Platform: Mac, Windows
- Cost: free
3. Preview (Mac built-in)
Mac's Preview app can open HEIC files and export to JPEG. Right-click a HEIC file → Open With → Preview → File → Export. For batch conversion: select all HEIC files → open in Preview → File → Export Selected Images. Free, offline, already installed on every Mac.
- Privacy: ✅ fully offline
- Batch: ✅ via "Export Selected Images"
- Output: JPEG, PNG, TIFF, PDF
- Platform: Mac only
- Cost: free (built-in)
4. Photos app (Mac/iPhone)
On Mac: select photos → File → Export → "JPEG" format. On iPhone: Settings → Camera → Formats → "Most Compatible" to shoot in JPEG instead of HEIC (prevents the problem at source). AirDrop automatically converts HEIC to JPEG when sharing to a non-Apple device.
5. HEIC to JPEG (heictojpeg.com)
Popular web tool with a clean interface. Uploads to their servers for conversion. Free, fast, no account required. Suitable for occasional single-file conversions where privacy isn't a concern.
- Privacy: ❌ server upload
- Batch: 50 files (free)
- Cost: free / paid for more
6. CloudConvert
Comprehensive format conversion service. Supports HEIC to JPEG/PNG/WebP and dozens of other format conversions. 25 free conversions per day. API available for automation.
- Privacy: ❌ server upload
- Batch: ✅
- Cost: 25 free/day, then paid
Comparison table
| Tool | Privacy | Batch | Output formats | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Picovert | ✅ local | Unlimited | JPG, PNG, WebP | Browser |
| iMazing HEIC | ✅ offline | Unlimited | JPG, PNG | Mac, Win |
| Preview (Mac) | ✅ offline | Unlimited | JPG, PNG, TIFF | Mac |
| HEIC to JPEG | ❌ upload | 50/session | JPG | Web |
| CloudConvert | ❌ upload | ✅ | Many | Web |
Recommendation
For most users: use Picovert in Chrome or Safari — it's the fastest option that requires no installation and keeps your photos private. If you work offline or prefer desktop software, iMazing HEIC Converter is the best choice. Mac users already have Preview and Photos for native conversion.
Prevent HEIC at the source (iPhone tip)
Go to Settings → Camera → Formats and select "Most Compatible." Your iPhone will shoot JPEG instead of HEIC. You lose some storage efficiency but eliminate compatibility issues entirely. Alternatively, leave it on HEIC and convert only when sharing with non-Apple users.