How to Convert Images to WebP Format: A Complete 2026 Guide
WebP is the modern image format that every website should be using in 2026. Developed by Google, it produces files that are 25 to 34 percent smaller than JPEG at the same quality, and also supports transparency like PNG and animation like GIF. In this guide, we will show you exactly how to convert images to WebP format and why you should make the switch.
Why Convert to WebP?
Converting images to WebP format is one of the easiest ways to speed up your website. Smaller image files mean faster page load times, better user experience, and improved SEO rankings. Our complete guide on how to convert images to WebP format covers everything you need to know.
What Is WebP?
WebP (Web Picture format) was created by Google in 2010 and uses advanced compression technology based on VP8 video coding. It supports three types of compression:
- Lossy compression: Like JPEG, ideal for photographs.
- Lossless compression: Like PNG, perfect for graphics and icons.
- Transparency: Alpha channel support like PNG.
- Animation: Like GIF but with much smaller file sizes.
WebP vs JPEG vs PNG: Size Comparison
In our testing with typical web images, WebP consistently outperforms traditional formats:
- A 1MB JPEG photo converted to WebP equals approximately 680KB at equal quality (32 percent smaller).
- A 500KB PNG graphic converted to WebP equals approximately 280KB (44 percent smaller).
- A PNG with transparency converted to WebP lossless equals approximately 30 percent smaller.
How to Convert Images to WebP Format: Step by Step
Here are the easiest methods to convert your images to WebP format:
Method 1: Online Converters
- Visit an online converter: Tools like Squoosh.app or CloudConvert work directly in your browser.
- Upload your images: Drag and drop JPEG, PNG, or GIF files.
- Select WebP as the target format: Adjust quality settings if needed.
- Download your WebP files: The conversion takes seconds.
Method 2: Desktop Software
Popular image editors like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, and Affinity Photo all support WebP export. Simply open your image and choose “Save As” or “Export” and select WebP as the format.
Method 3: WordPress Plugins
WordPress 5.8+ supports WebP natively. When you upload a WebP file to the media library, it handles it correctly. Several popular plugins like Smush, ShortPixel, and Imagify can also automatically convert uploaded images to WebP.
Browser Support in 2026
WebP is supported by all major modern browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, and Opera. According to caniuse.com, WebP has over 97 percent global browser support, making it safe to use for virtually all websites.
WordPress and WebP
WordPress 5.8+ supports WebP natively. When you upload a WebP file to the media library, it handles it correctly. For older WordPress sites, plugins like WebP Express or Imagify can serve WebP images to supported browsers while falling back to JPEG for older browsers.
Compress WebP for Even Smaller Files
After converting to WebP, run the files through an image compressor like TinyPNG or Squoosh at 80 percent quality for an additional 10 to 20 percent size reduction with minimal visual difference.
For more information about image optimization and web performance, you can visit Google’s official WebP documentation.