With the variety of image formats out there, including JPG, GIF, PNG, TIF, and BMP, it helps to be able to change between them. Whether you are a digital photographer or a curious user, there are a few options you may use to convert your images. We have listed our favorites below. To proceed, read through each section in order, or select your method based on heading.

Online converter

One of the most straightforward and quick ways to change an image’s file format is to use an online converter.

When you save an image in a different file format, you may lose some quality due to the limitations of the new file type.

  • Locate the image converting website of your choice. We like Online-Convert.
  • From the menu on the left side, select the file format you would like the image converted.
  • Click the Choose Files button, enter an image URL, or click the Choose from Dropbox button.
  • Select any Optional Settings and then click the Convert file button.
  • Read through the You now have the following options: section.

Using a photo editor

Although photo editing programs like Adobe Photoshop can be daunting and expensive, a simple, free photo editor works perfectly for converting images to different formats. Microsoft Windows includes the program Paint, and Mac users may use the Preview program.

Converting in Windows

  • Open the photo in Microsoft Paint.
  • Click the file Menu button in the upper-left corner of the screen.
  • Select Save As from the drop-down menu that appears.
  • In the box next to Save as type:, click the down arrow.
  • Select your new file format and click Save.

Converting in macOS

  • Open the photo in Preview.
  • Click the file Menu in the upper-left corner of the screen.
  • Select Export… from the drop-down menu that appears.
  • In the box next to Format:, click the down arrow and select your new file format.
  • Under Export as:, rename the photo as you see fit and click Save.

Mac users who are familiar with Microsoft Paint may find the Paintbrush program helpful, as it is quite similar. The image conversion steps are the same as the Converting in Windows section.

For many file types, Mac users can change the file name extension, and the image converts automatically.

  • How to rotate or turn an image.
  • How to crop an image or picture.
  • How to resize an image.
  • How to make a negative of a picture.
  • How to convert HEIC images to JPEG or another format.
  • Image help and support.