HEIF vs PNG: Which Should You Use?

Side-by-side comparison of HEIF and PNG image formats — features, pros, cons, and conversion options.

Quick Answer

HEIF is best for Modern image storage with advanced features. PNG is best for Graphics with transparency, screenshots, and diagrams.

Quick Verdict

HEIF Best for Modern image storage with advanced features

✓ Efficient compression
✓ Multiple images in one file
✓ HDR and depth map support
✗ Limited browser support

Convert HEIF to PNG →

PNG Best for Graphics with transparency, screenshots, and diagrams

✓ Lossless compression
✓ Full transparency support
✓ Universal web support
✗ Larger than JPEG for photos

Specs Comparison

Side-by-side technical comparison of HEIF and PNG

Feature	HEIF	PNG
Category	Image	Image
Year Introduced	2015	1996
MIME Type	image/heif	image/png
Extensions	.heif	.png
Lossy	✓	✗
Lossless	✓	✓
Transparency	✓	✓
Animation	✓	✗
Max Color Depth	10-bit	16-bit
Hdr	✓	✗

Pros & Cons

HEIF

Pros

✓ Efficient compression
✓ Multiple images in one file
✓ HDR and depth map support

Cons

✗ Limited browser support
✗ Patent licensing complexity
✗ Confusing relationship with HEIC

PNG

Pros

✓ Lossless compression
✓ Full transparency support
✓ Universal web support

Cons

✗ Larger than JPEG for photos
✗ No animation (use APNG)
✗ No lossy mode

When to Use Each

Choose HEIF when...

You need files optimized for Modern image storage with advanced features
Efficient compression
Multiple images in one file
You need lossless quality

Choose PNG when...

You need files optimized for Graphics with transparency, screenshots, and diagrams
Lossless compression
Full transparency support
You need lossless quality

How to Convert

Convert between HEIF and PNG for free on ChangeThisFile

Convert HEIF to PNG Runs in your browser — files never leave your device

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between HEIF and PNG?

HEIF is best for Modern image storage with advanced features, while PNG is best for Graphics with transparency, screenshots, and diagrams. Both are image formats but they differ in compression, compatibility, and intended use cases.

Is HEIF or PNG better for image?

It depends on your use case. HEIF is better for Modern image storage with advanced features. PNG is better for Graphics with transparency, screenshots, and diagrams. Consider your specific requirements when choosing between them.

How do I convert HEIF to PNG?

Go to the HEIF to PNG converter on ChangeThisFile. The conversion runs entirely in your browser — your file never leaves your device. It's free with no signup required.

Can I convert PNG to HEIF?

Direct conversion from PNG to HEIF is not currently supported. Check the conversion pages for available routes using intermediate formats.

Which is smaller, HEIF or PNG?

File size depends on the content and compression settings. HEIF uses lossy compression for smaller files. PNG preserves full quality. For the smallest files, choose the format with lossy compression that meets your quality needs.

Does HEIF support lossy?

Yes, HEIF supports lossy, but PNG does not. This may be important depending on your use case.

Is HEIF or PNG free to use?

Both HEIF and PNG are supported file formats that are free to use. You can convert between them for free on ChangeThisFile — browser-based conversions have no limits and your files never leave your device.

Which format is newer, HEIF or PNG?

HEIF is newer — it was introduced in 2015, while PNG dates back to 1996. Newer formats often offer better compression and features, but older formats tend to have wider compatibility.