WebP Image (MIME: image/webp) is a modern image format developed by Google that provides superior lossless and lossy compression for images on the web, producing files 25-34% smaller than equivalent JPEG or PNG files.
History and Development
WebP was developed by Google and first released in 2010, based on the VP8 video codec technology from the On2 Technologies acquisition. Google's goal was to create a format that could replace both JPEG and PNG. Support grew slowly — Apple's Safari added support in 2020 (macOS Big Sur / iOS 14), achieving full browser coverage. By 2024, WebP accounts for over 10% of web images.
Technical Specifications
- Compression: Both lossy (VP8) and lossless modes
- Color depth: 24-bit (8 bits per channel)
- Transparency: Full alpha channel in both lossy and lossless
- Animation: Supported (replacement for animated GIF)
- Max resolution: 16,383 × 16,383 pixels
- Metadata: EXIF and XMP supported
- File size: 25-34% smaller than JPEG, 26% smaller than PNG (lossless)
Common Use Cases
WebP is ideal for all web images — photographs, graphics, thumbnails, and animated content. Major platforms like YouTube, Google Images, and Facebook serve WebP by default. E-commerce sites use WebP to speed up page loads. It's especially valuable for mobile web where bandwidth is limited.
WEBP vs Similar Formats
- WebP vs JPEG: WebP achieves 25-34% smaller files at equivalent quality, and adds transparency support. Most websites now prefer WebP.
- WebP vs PNG: WebP lossless is 26% smaller than PNG, with the added benefit of animation support.
- WebP vs AVIF: AVIF offers even better compression (50% vs JPEG), but WebP has broader browser support and faster encoding.
How to Open and Edit
All modern browsers support WebP (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge). macOS and Windows 10+ can preview WebP natively. For editing, use Photoshop (with plugin), GIMP 2.10+, or Squoosh.app (Google's free web tool). Convert WebP to other formats with OmniConvert directly in your browser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WebP better than JPEG?
For web use, yes. WebP produces 25-34% smaller files at the same visual quality, loads faster, and supports transparency. The only downside is slightly less universal support in older software.
Can I use WebP on all browsers?
Yes, as of 2020 all major browsers support WebP (Chrome, Firefox, Safari 14+, Edge). Global browser support is now over 97%.
Does WebP support animation?
Yes! WebP animation provides much better compression than GIF, with full 24-bit color and alpha transparency.