How to Compress WebP Files on MacSave 30-60% storage space without losing quality
What Is WebP (Web Picture Format)?
WebP is a modern image format developed by Google, designed for efficient web delivery. It supports both lossy and lossless compression, transparency (alpha channel), and animation. WebP typically produces files 25-35% smaller than equivalent JPG or PNG files, making it the preferred format for web content.
Why Are WebP Files So Large?
While WebP is inherently more efficient than JPG and PNG, files can still be large when saved at maximum quality settings or when they contain high-resolution images. WebP files downloaded from the web often use conservative compression to serve diverse audiences, leaving room for further optimization.
Typical WebP Compression Results
Before
100KB - 5MB per image
After
50KB - 2MB per image
30-60%
Smaller
Compression Ratio
1.5:1 to 2.5:1
Codecs
VP8 (lossy), VP8L (lossless)
How to Compress WebP Files on Mac (Step by Step)
Follow these steps to compress your WebP files using MediaOptim on macOS:
Open MediaOptim
Launch MediaOptim. It has full WebP read and write support.
Add WebP files
Drag your WebP images into the app. MediaOptim handles both lossy and lossless WebP files.
Set compression
Choose "Balanced" mode. MediaOptim finds the optimal quality level for each WebP image individually.
Compress
Process your WebP files. Compression is fast since WebP encoding is well-optimized.
Save
Review and save compressed WebP files. Typical savings are 30-60% over the original.
WebP Technical Details & Compression Tips
Best Quality Settings
WebP quality 75-80 provides excellent results for photos. For lossless WebP, the compression level (0-6) controls speed vs size tradeoff, with level 6 providing the smallest files.
When to Convert vs Compress
WebP is already optimized for web use. Convert to JPG only if you need compatibility with older software. For Apple ecosystem use, HEIC provides comparable efficiency.
Technical Specifications
- Developed by Google, based on VP8/VP9 video codec technology
- Lossy mode: 25-35% smaller than equivalent JPG
- Lossless mode: 26% smaller than PNG on average
- Supports alpha transparency (both lossy and lossless)
- Animation support (alternative to GIF with much better compression)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I compress WebP files on Mac?
Use MediaOptim to re-compress WebP files at an optimized quality level. Despite WebP being already efficient, further compression of 30-60% is achievable.
Is WebP better than JPG?
Yes, for web use. WebP produces files 25-35% smaller than equivalent JPGs at the same visual quality. However, JPG has broader compatibility with older software.
Can I convert WebP to JPG on Mac?
Yes. MediaOptim can convert WebP to JPG, though this typically increases file size. Convert only if you need compatibility with software that cannot open WebP.
Does macOS support WebP natively?
Yes, since macOS Big Sur (11.0). Safari, Preview, and Quick Look all support WebP natively.
Can WebP replace both JPG and PNG?
Technically yes. WebP supports both lossy compression (like JPG) and lossless compression with transparency (like PNG). It is the most versatile image format available.
Compress Your WebP Files Now
Save 30-60% on your WebP files. No quality loss. Everything stays on your Mac.
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