HEIC File Converter: What It Is & How to Use One

An HEIC file converter is a tool that changes Apple’s High Efficiency Image Format (HEIC) into a more widely compatible format like JPEG or PNG. You use it when a website, app, or older device won’t open or accept your HEIC photos, and it gives you back a standard image file that works almost anywhere. This article explains how these converters work, what to look for, and the simplest ways to convert your photos.

Formula

The calculator computes your average pace and speed for a run or ride. The formulas are:

• Pace (min/km) = Finish time (minutes) ÷ Distance (km)
• Speed (km/h) = Distance (km) ÷ (Finish time (minutes) ÷ 60)

Where:

• Finish time (t) – total time taken, in minutes.
• Distance (d) – total distance covered, in kilometers.
• Pace – minutes per kilometer (lower is faster).
• Speed – kilometers per hour.

Worked Example

Using the default values: distance = 10 km, finish time = 50 minutes.

1. Pace = 50 ÷ 10 = 5.00 min/km
2. Speed = 10 ÷ (50 ÷ 60) = 10 ÷ 0.8333 = 12.00 km/h

So you ran 10 km in 50 minutes at an average pace of 5:00 per kilometer and an average speed of 12 km/h.

Why HEIC Exists

HEIC is the default photo format on iPhones and iPads since iOS 11 (2017). It uses the High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) standard to store photos at roughly half the file size of JPEG while keeping similar quality. That smaller size means your phone can store more photos, and it uses less data when you share them over iMessage or AirDrop. The trade-off is compatibility: HEIC is not natively supported by many older operating systems, some web browsers, and a lot of online forms and social media platforms.

How HEIC Conversion Works

Converting HEIC to JPEG or PNG involves decoding the HEIC file into raw image data and then re-encoding that data into the target format. The process is handled by software libraries such as libheif, which many converters use under the hood. When you upload a HEIC file to a converter, the tool reads the image data, strips any metadata (like GPS location or camera settings), and writes a new JPEG or PNG file. The quality of the output depends on the conversion settings—especially the JPEG compression level. A good converter lets you choose quality (usually 80–100%) and resolution, so you can balance file size against visual fidelity.

How to Choose a Converter

There are several ways to convert HEIC files, each with different strengths. Consider these factors:

• Platform: Do you need a web tool (works anywhere), a desktop app (offline, batch processing), or a mobile app (on-the-go)?
• Batch processing: If you have hundreds of photos, look for a tool that converts multiple files at once.
• Output options: Most tools offer JPEG and PNG; some also support WebP or TIFF.
• Quality control: Check if you can adjust compression or resolution after conversion.
• Privacy: For sensitive photos, use a desktop tool or an offline converter instead of uploading to a web service.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

One common misconception is that HEIC files are “brokenâ€� or lower quality. In fact, HEIC often produces better quality at the same file size as JPEG. The real issue is compatibility—older Windows PCs (pre-2018), some Linux distributions, and certain web apps cannot open HEIC without a codec or extension. Another frequent problem is that uploading HEIC to a website that only accepts JPEG results in an error. The solution is to convert the file first, not to change your phone’s camera settings permanently. If you prefer to keep HEIC as your storage format, you can still convert individual photos when needed.

Built-in Conversion Options

Before using a third-party converter, check your device’s built-in tools:

• iPhone/iPad: In the Photos app, select a photo, tap Share, choose “Optionsâ€� and change Format to “Most Compatibleâ€� – this exports a JPEG copy.
• Mac: Open the HEIC file in Preview, then go to File > Export and choose JPEG or PNG.
• Windows 10/11: Install the free “HEIF Image Extensionsâ€� from the Microsoft Store, then you can open HEIC in the Photos app and use “Save Asâ€� to convert to JPEG.
• Google Photos: If you upload HEIC files to Google Photos, they are stored as HEIC but can be downloaded as JPEG via the “Downloadâ€� option.

These built-in methods are free, fast, and keep your photos on your device, which is better for privacy.

Online vs. Offline Converters

Online converters (websites) are convenient because they require no installation and work on any device with a browser. You upload your HEIC file, and the site sends back a JPEG or PNG. However, you are relying on their servers to handle your photos, which raises privacy concerns for personal images. Offline converters (desktop software) process files locally, so your photos never leave your computer. They are ideal for large batches or sensitive content. Some popular offline options include the built-in tools mentioned above, as well as open-source software like XnConvert or ImageMagick (command-line). For most users, the built-in tools are sufficient; online converters are best for occasional, non-sensitive conversions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t I open a HEIC file on my PC?

Windows PCs need the HEIF Image Extensions codec to decode HEIC files. If you haven’t installed it, Windows will show an error. You can download it from the Microsoft Store (free). After installation, the Photos app will open HEIC files, and you can convert them to JPEG using “Save As.â€�

Is HEIC better than JPEG?

HEIC typically offers better compression than JPEG, meaning smaller file size at the same quality level. It also supports features like image sequences and transparency (which JPEG does not). However, JPEG is universally supported, so for sharing and compatibility, JPEG is often the safer choice.

Will converting HEIC to JPEG lose quality?

Yes, if you convert to JPEG, you will lose some quality because JPEG uses lossy compression. However, if you convert at high quality (90–100%), the loss is usually imperceptible. If you want lossless conversion, choose PNG, but the file size will be much larger.

Can I convert HEIC to PDF?

Yes, many converters offer PDF as an output option. This is useful for documents or sharing multiple photos as a single file. The conversion process is the same as for JPEG, but the output is a PDF containing the image(s).

How do I convert HEIC on an Android phone?

Android devices can open HEIC if they run Android 9 or later, but many apps still don’t support it. You can use a file manager app like Google Files to rename the extension to .jpg (this sometimes works), or use a dedicated converter app from the Play Store. For reliable results, use an online converter.

What is the best free HEIC converter?

There is no single “best� because it depends on your needs. For privacy, use the built-in options on your device. For batch conversion on Windows, the free HEIF Image Extensions plus the Photos app works well. For Mac, Preview is excellent. For occasional web use, any reputable online converter (like CloudConvert or Convertio) will work, but check their privacy policy.

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in d | Distance | km | 10 | 0
in t | Finish time | min | 50 | 0
out pace | Average pace | min/km | t / d | 2
out speed | Average speed | km/h | d / (t / 60) | 2