vs
webp
AVIF vs WebP: which next-gen image format wins?
A clear, practical comparison with a straight answer.
Choose AVIF when squeezing out the smallest possible file matters most and you can accept slower encoding. Choose WebP when you need animation, or when you want the wider desktop app and editor support WebP already has.
Both of these formats exist to replace JPEG and PNG with something smaller, and both now play in every current browser. AVIF is the newer of the two, built on the AV1 video codec, while WebP has had a longer head start to work its way into editors and tools.
Picking between them usually comes down to what the image needs to do. If it is a still photo and size is everything, AVIF tends to win. If it needs to animate, or you need the broadest editor support today, WebP is the safer pick.
.avif vs .webp at a glance
| .avif | .webp | |
|---|---|---|
| Compression at same quality | Usually smaller | Smaller than JPEG/PNG, larger than AVIF |
| Animation | Yes | Yes |
| HDR and colour depth | Up to 12-bit, HDR | 8-bit |
| Encoding speed | Slower | Faster |
| Editor and app support | Growing, still behind WebP | Good, more mature |
| Best for | Smallest possible still photos | Animation and broad editor support |
Frequently asked questions
Should I use AVIF or WebP on my website?
AVIF usually produces smaller still images, but WebP has slightly wider support in older browsers and image editors. Many sites serve AVIF with a WebP fallback.
Does WebP support HDR like AVIF?
No. WebP is limited to standard 8-bit colour, while AVIF supports 10 and 12-bit colour and HDR.