Introduction
If you’re a Mac user, chances are you’ve encountered the HEIC (High-Efficiency Image Container) format. This file type was introduced in iOS 11 and is now the default format for photos taken on iPhones and iPads with iOS 11 and higher. By nature, HEIC files are smaller and more efficient than the traditional JPEG format. However, compatibility with other devices and platforms can be an issue since not all software and devices support HEIC files. Converting HEIC files to the more universally compatible JPG format can be a practical solution. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to do so on a Mac.
Step-by-Step Guide
Converting HEIC to JPG using Preview on Mac
Preview is Apple’s built-in image viewer and editor for Mac. It comes preinstalled with macOS and offers an easy way to convert HEIC files to JPG. Follow these simple steps:
- Open the HEIC file you want to convert in Preview.
- Click on the file menu and select “Export.”
- Choose JPG under the “Format” dropdown menu.
- Select the folder you want to save the JPG file into and click on “Save.”
That’s it! You can now access your newly converted JPG file from the selected folder.
Converting HEIC to JPG using Photos app on Mac
The Photos app is another built-in app on Mac that can handle HEIC files. Here’s how to convert HEIC to JPG using Photos:
- Open the Photos app on your Mac.
- Click on the HEIC file that you want to convert to JPG.
- Click on the file menu and select “Export.”
- Choose JPG under the “Format” dropdown menu.
- Select the folder you want to save the JPG file into and click on “Export.”
Converting HEIC to JPG using Third-Party Software on Mac
Although Preview and Photos are easy and straightforward options to convert HEIC to JPG, you might need a more robust tool to handle several files at once or convert to other formats. Here are some third-party software options you can use:
- FonePaw HEIC Converter – A free software app that can convert HEIC to JPG, PNG, and GIF. It can handle single files or multiple files at once and allows for batch conversion. You can customize the output file quality, set compression level, maintain metadata, and more.
- iMazing HEIC Converter – A free offline tool that allows you to convert HEIC to JPG, PNG, or PDF. It can handle multiple files and offers various output file options, including image resolution and quality.
- Acrok HEIC Converter – A paid HEIC converter software that offers a one-click solution to convert HEIC to JPG. It supports batch conversion and allows you to specify file size and output quality. It can also convert HEIC to other image formats like BMP, GIF, and TIFF.
Video Tutorial
If you prefer visual guidance, here’s a video demonstration of the above methods:
Comparison of Methods
While all the above methods work to convert HEIC to JPG on Mac, they vary in user-friendliness, output quality, and price. Here’s a comparison table of each method:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Preview | Free, straightforward | Only handles single files, limited output options |
| Photos app | Built-in, user-friendly | Only handles single files, limited output options |
| FonePaw HEIC Converter | Free, handles batches, customizable output options | Only supports basic image files, ad-supported |
| iMazing HEIC Converter | Free, handles batches, multiple output options | Only supports basic image files |
| Acrok HEIC Converter | Handles batches, can convert to other formats | Paid, no free trial, limited output options |
Based on your needs and priorities, you can now choose the method that fits you the best.
Tips and Tricks
Automating the Conversion Process
If you frequently need to convert HEIC files to JPG, you can speed up the process by using Automator, a built-in app on Mac that allows you to create workflows and automate tasks. Here’s how:
- Open Automator on your Mac.
- Select “New Workflow” from the opening screen.
- Choose “Files & Folders” from the left-hand menu and drag “Get Specified Finder Items” to the workflow area on the right.
- Click on “Add” and select the HEIC files you want to convert.
- Choose “Photos” from the left-hand menu and drag “Change Type of Images” to the workflow area on the right.
- Choose “JPEG format” from the dropdown list of output formats.
- Click on “File” from the left-hand menu and select “Move Finder Items.”
- Select the folder where you want to save the converted JPG files.
- Click on “Run” from the top-right corner of the screen, and your workflow will start converting your HEIC files to JPG in the folder you specified.
Handling Large Batches of Files
If you have a large batch of HEIC files to convert to JPG, you might want to use a specialized software to handle them efficiently. Here are some options to consider:
- XnConvert – A free batch image converter that supports over 500 image formats, including HEIC. It allows for batch conversion, resizing, cropping, adding watermarks, and more.
- Adobe Lightroom – A paid software app that specializes in editing and organizing photos. It offers batch processing for converting HEIC to JPG, as well as other file formats, and allows for advanced editing options like color correction, lighting corrections, and more.
Troubleshooting
Converting HEIC to JPG can be a straightforward process, but issues may sometimes arise. Here are some common problems and solutions:
- Unsupported file type: Some software or converters might not support HEIC files. In that case, make sure to use a software or converter that supports the HEIC file format, such as the ones mentioned above.
- Unresponsive software: If the software or app you’re using is not responding, try closing it and reopening it or restarting your Mac and trying again.
Conclusion
Converting HEIC to JPG on Mac can be hassle-free with the right tool or method. Whether you choose the built-in Preview or Photos apps, or a third-party software, make sure to consider your needs and priorities before committing. Check out the tips and tricks to make the process even smoother, and don’t hesitate to troubleshoot any issues you might face. By following our step-by-step guide, you should now have no problem converting your HEIC files into the more compatible JPG file format.