Zen Convert
Zen ConvertConvert with calm.

What is AVIF?

AV1 Image File Format

AVIF is the newest mainstream image format, based on the AV1 video codec. It compresses 30–50% smaller than WebP and 50%+ smaller than JPG at the same quality — the leader for modern web performance.

Convert AVIF filesAll image conversions

History of AVIF

AVIF (AV1 Image File Format) emerged in 2019, based on the AV1 video codec. It compresses dramatically better than JPEG (often 50%+ smaller at the same quality) and matches or beats WebP. The trade-off : encoding is slow, and browser support, while now mature, took a few years to reach widespread.

Technical specs

Format name
AV1 Image File Format
File extension
.avif
MIME type
image/avif
Category
Image
Compression
Lossy compression

When to use AVIF

Reach for AVIF when you need cutting-edge web performance and seo, hero images and photography on modern sites, image-heavy progressive web apps. It excels at these scenarios because best-in-class compression and hdr and wide color gamut support.

Pros

  • +Best-in-class compression
  • +HDR and wide color gamut support
  • +Royalty-free

When to avoid AVIF

Avoid AVIF when slower to encode than webp, and limited support in older browsers and software. In those cases, look at the alternatives below.

Cons

  • −Slower to encode than WebP
  • −Limited support in older browsers and software
  • −Editing tool support still maturing

Common uses for AVIF

Alternatives to AVIF

WebP for broader compatibility. JPG / PNG for maximum compatibility.

JPGJPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)PNGPortable Network GraphicsWebPWebPGIFGraphics Interchange FormatBMPBitmap Image FileSVGScalable Vector GraphicsTIFFTagged Image File Format

Convert AVIF to…

Convert to AVIF from…

AVIF — Frequently Asked Questions

Is AVIF still used in 2026?

Yes, AVIF is actively used. Cutting-edge web performance and SEO keeps it relevant.

Can I open a AVIF file on my phone?

Recent iOS (16+) and Android (12+) support AVIF. Older devices may struggle.

Why is my AVIF file so different in size from other files?

AVIF file sizes depend on encoder settings (bitrate, resolution, quality). For smaller files, re-encode at a lower bitrate or convert to a more compressed format.

Can I convert AVIF to another format for free?

Yes — Zen Convert converts AVIF files to every other image format we support, for free, in your browser. No signup, no watermark.

Is AVIF open-source?

Yes — AVIF is fully open-source and royalty-free. You can implement, distribute, and use it without paying any licensing fees.

What is AVIF? — AV1 Image File Format Format Explained | Zen Convert