An image converter is a handy tool that changes one image file type (like JPG, BMP, or TIF) into another. Ever found yourself stuck because your image isn’t supported where you need to use it? 😕 This type of software is your solution!
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the top free image converter software I’ve personally tested. I prefer online services because they allow you to convert images directly through your web browser—no downloads necessary! However, I’ve also included some desktop applications, as they offer unique advantages.
Rest assured, everything I mention here is completely free—no trialware or shareware included.
1. Image Candy
What’s Great About It:
- Handles Massive Files: You can upload images up to 2 GB!
- No Software Needed: Convert images directly from your browser.
- See Before You Convert: Offers large previews.
- Versatile: Supports a wide array of input formats and allows bulk uploads and downloads.
What Could Be Better:
- Limited to Device Uploads: Currently, you cannot upload from cloud storage or via URL.
- Restricted Output Choices: Fewer format options available.
- Size Constraints: There are undisclosed limitations on dimensions.
I recently discovered Image Candy and instantly knew it had to be on this list. It’s more than just an image converter; it’s a hub of free online tools that impress with its simplicity and efficiency.
Supported Formats:
- Input: GIF, PNG, TIFF, BMP, DIB, JFIF, PJPEG, JPG, PJP, HEIF, HEIC
- Output: JPG, PNG, PDF, SVG
What makes Image Candy stand out is its straightforward process: just upload your photo(s), make any necessary adjustments, choose your output format, and download the files—either individually or all at once in a zip file.
This is an online converter accessible from any operating system, ensuring your uploads are secure and automatically deleted after two hours.
2. XnConvert
What’s Great About It:
- Extremely Versatile: Converts between roughly 500 image formats.
- Batch Capabilities: Handles multiple images simultaneously.
- Full of Features: Offers advanced settings for those who need precise control.
- Cross-Platform Support: Available for Windows, Linux, and macOS.
- Portable Version: Easy to use on-the-go with both 32-bit and 64-bit options.
What Could Be Better:
- Complex for Some Users: May be overwhelming if you need just a basic conversion.
- Requires Download: You must install the software on your computer.
Dubbed the “Swiss Army knife” of image converters, XnConvert is ideal for dealing with rare or unusual image formats that other software can’t handle. It’s a powerhouse with support for around 500 input formats and up to 80 output formats, ensuring you’re covered no matter the file type.
Supported Formats:
- Input: BMP, EMF, GIF, ICO, JPG, PCX, PDF, PNG, PSD, RAW, TIF, and more.
- Output: BMP, EMF, GIF, ICO, JPG, PCX, PDF, PNG, PSD, RAW, TIF, and more.
Explore the XnConvert Supported Formats list for a comprehensive overview.
Additionally, XnConvert excels in batch processing, allowing you to import entire folders, apply filters, resize images, and tweak numerous other settings. For those who prefer command-line tools, the publisher also offers NConvert, but XnConvert’s graphical interface makes it much more user-friendly.
Whether you’re on Windows, Mac, or Linux, this tool ensures you can convert images effortlessly and efficiently, even directly from your USB stick with its portable version.
3. Coolutils
What’s Great About It:
- Completely Online: No need to download any software—convert directly in your browser.
- Edit Before You Convert: Resize and rotate images before conversion.
- Instant Download: Get your converted image immediately from the webpage.
What Could Be Better:
- Single Image Conversion: Only one image can be converted at a time.
- No Preview Available: Lacks a preview feature, which could be helpful when rotating images.
Coolutils stands out as an online converter that operates in real-time, sparing you the hassle of waiting for an email link to download your converted image. This platform is ideal for quick, straightforward conversions without the need for software installation.
Supported Formats:
- Input: BMP, GIF, ICO, JPEG, PNG, TIFF
- Output: BMP, GIF, ICO, JPEG, PDF, PNG, TIFF
Though there’s a file size limit for uploads, the specifics aren’t clearly defined—my testing succeeded with a 35 MB file but not with a 40 MB one.
A notable advantage of Coolutils is the ability to adjust the size and orientation of your image before conversion. However, the lack of a preview function means you can’t see the changes in real-time, which might be a drawback for some users.
Since it’s accessible via any web browser, you can use Coolutils on various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Mac. This makes it a versatile choice for users everywhere.
4. Zamzar
What’s Great About It:
- Bulk Conversions: Handles multiple files at once.
- Completely Online: No software installation necessary.
- Generous Size Limit: Accepts images up to 50 MB each.
- User-Friendly: Known for its easy-to-use interface.
What Could Be Better:
- Limited Session Capacity: Only allows two images per session and 24 hours.
- Individual Downloads: Requires downloading images one at a time, even in bulk conversions.
Our Review of Zamzar
Zamzar is a robust online converter that supports a wide array of photo, graphic, and even some CAD formats. After conversion, you can choose to receive your files via email or simply download them directly from the webpage.
Files can be uploaded from your local device, integrated cloud storage services like Dropbox and Google Drive, or even directly from URLs.
Supported Formats:
- Input: 3FR, AI, ARW, BMP, CR2, CRW, CDR, DCR, DNG, DWG, DXF, EMF, ERF, GIF, JPG, MDI, MEF, MRW, NEF, ODG, ORF, PCX, PEF, PNG, PPM, PSD, RAF, RAW, SR2, SVG, TGA, TIFF, WBMP, WMF, X3F, XCF
- Output: AI, BMP, EPS, GIF, ICO, JPG, PDF, PS, PCX, PNG, TGA, TIFF, WBMP
In my experience, Zamzar’s conversion times are competitive with similar services like FileZigZag. However, the inability to download multiple files simultaneously or upload more than a few at a time might prompt you to consider standalone software for heavier usage.
Visit Zamzar
Besides images, Zamzar can also convert documents, audio files, videos, eBooks, and more. For a full list of capabilities, check out all the formats supported by Zamzar.
5. FileZigZag
What’s Great About It:
- User-Friendly: Intuitive and straightforward, perfect for all user levels.
- Universal Compatibility: Accessible via any web browser and operating system.
- Generous File Size: Supports images up to 150 MB when you log in.
- Efficient for Bulk Tasks: Allows bulk uploads, conversions, and downloads.
What Could Be Better:
- Speed Issues: Conversions can be slow, especially during peak times.
- Daily Limits: Free users are restricted to 10 conversions per day.
Our Review of FileZigZag
FileZigZag is a versatile online image converter that handles a wide range of common graphics formats. To convert, simply upload your file, select your preferred output format, and wait for the download link to appear.
Supported Formats:
- Input: AI, BMP, CMYK, CR2, DDS, DNG, DPX, EPS, GIF, HEIC, ICO, JPEG, JPG, NEF, ODG, OTG, PAM, PBM, PCX, PGM, PNG, PPM, PSD, RGB, RGBA, SDA, SGI, SVG, SXD, TGA, TIF, TIFF, XCF, YUV
- Output: AI, BMP, CUR, DPX, EPS, GIF, ICO, JPEG, JPG, PAM, PBM, PCX, PDF, PGM, PNG, PPM, RAS, SGI, SVG, TGA, TIF, TIFF, YUV
Discover all the conversion possibilities on the Conversion Types page. Besides images, FileZigZag also supports the conversion of documents, audio, videos, eBooks, archives, and webpages.
As with any online file converter, you must wait for the file to upload and then for the download link. While this process can take some time, especially if the server is busy, the overall duration should be reasonable given that most image files are relatively small.
6. Adapter
What’s Great About It:
- Sleek Interface: Simple, minimalistic, and incredibly user-friendly.
- Instant Conversions: No waiting time—convert your images right away.
- No Uploads Required: Converts images directly on your computer.
- Efficient for Bulk Tasks: Supports converting multiple images at once.
- Quick Installation: Gets up and running on your system in no time.
- Cross-Platform: Compatible with both Windows and macOS.
What Could Be Better:
- Software Download Required: You need to install the program on your device.
- Limited Format Support: Supports only a few image file formats.
- Uniform Output Constraint: All images in a batch must be converted to the same format.
Adapter is a straightforward and efficient image converter program that’s great for users who prefer hassle-free operations. Whether you’re a beginner or someone who enjoys diving into more complex settings, Adapter has something for everyone.
In its basic mode, simply drag and drop your images into the queue and select the desired output format. The interface provides clear information on the file sizes before and after conversion.
For those who like more control, Adapter offers advanced options such as customizable file names, output directories, adjustments for resolution and quality, and the ability to add text or image overlays.
Supported Formats:
- Input: JPG, PNG, BMP, TIFF, GIF
- Output: JPG, PNG, BMP, TIFF, GIF
Adapter is known for its speed and reliability, eliminating the need to upload files online for conversion. Beyond images, it also handles video and audio conversions effectively.
This software is available for installation on Windows versions 11, 10, 8, and 7, as well as on macOS from version 13 down to 10.7.
7. Resizing.app
What’s Great About It:
- Browser-Based: Easily accessible without any downloads.
- Supports Popular Formats: Handles most common image file formats.
- Additional Editing Options: Not just for conversion; resize and crop your images too.
- Ad-Free Experience: Enjoy a clean, uninterrupted user interface.
What Could Be Better:
- Limited Format Range: Offers a smaller selection of formats compared to others.
- Single File Conversion: Only one file can be converted at a time.
- Optimizer Feedback: Lacks real-time progress indication for its optimizer feature.
Resizing.app offers more than its name suggests; aside from resizing, it also provides tools for cropping and converting images, all within a straightforward, user-friendly interface that runs directly in your web browser.
Supported Formats:
- Input: PNG, JPEG, BMP, TIFF, HEIC, GIF, WEBP
- Output: JPG, PNG, WEBP, BMP, TIFF
Despite its limited format support, Resizing.app compensates with versatile resizing options. You can adjust images to any custom dimensions, crop them to your liking, or use the built-in optimizer to help reduce file sizes—ideal for creating lighter, web-friendly images.
As a web-based tool, it operates smoothly across any device with internet access, providing a convenient solution for on-the-go image editing and conversion.
8. DVDVideoSoft’s Free Image Convert and Resize
What’s Great About It:
- User-Friendly: Simple interface that’s easy to navigate.
- Supports Popular Formats: Converts between widely-used image formats.
- Additional Functionality: Allows you to resize and rename files during the conversion process.
- Batch Conversion: Efficiently handles multiple photos at once.
What Could Be Better:
- Intrusive Installer: The setup process may attempt to install additional unwanted programs.
- Limited Format Variety: Supports only a basic range of image formats.
- Uniform Format Conversion: All images in the batch must be converted to the same format.
- No Ongoing Development: The app is no longer being updated.
Free Image Convert and Resize lives up to its name, providing straightforward tools for converting, resizing, and renaming images. Despite its limitations in format diversity, it covers the essentials with functionality for handling JPG, PNG, BMP, GIF, TGA, and even converting images to PDF.
Supported Formats:
- Input: JPG, PNG, BMP, GIF, TGA
- Output: JPG, PNG, BMP, GIF, TGA, PDF
I found this program to be particularly useful on Windows 11, though it is also compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, and XP.
Download Free Image Convert and Resize
Be cautious during installation; the installer may include offers for additional software. It’s best to opt-out of these extras to keep your system clutter-free.
9. PixConverter
What’s Great About It:
- Guided Setup: Features a step-by-step wizard to simplify the conversion process.
- Customizable Output Quality: Allows for adjustments to the image quality to suit your needs.
- Versatile Editing Tools: Offers resizing and renaming of images.
- Batch Conversions: Capable of handling multiple images at once.
What Could Be Better:
- Windows Only: Limited to Windows operating systems.
- Potentially Overwhelming: May include more options than the average user needs.
- Outdated: Last updated in 2007, which may affect compatibility with newer systems.
PixConverter is notable for its user-friendly design combined with powerful features. It supports batch conversions and allows for the import of multiple photos from a folder simultaneously, along with capabilities for image rotation, resizing, and color adjustments.
Supported Formats:
- Input: JPG, JPEG, GIF, PCX, PNG, BMP, TIF
- Output: JPG, GIF, PCX, PNG, BMP, TIF
This tool is an excellent choice if you prefer a desktop application over online converters and need support for the aforementioned formats.
Though officially supported on Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista, I’ve successfully used PixConverter on Windows 10, and it likely functions on other versions as well.
10. SendTo-Convert
What’s Great About It:
- Speedy Conversions: Converts images quickly and efficiently.
- Highly Customizable: Allows you to adjust all conversion settings to your preference.
- Supports Common Formats: Handles most popular image file formats effectively.
What Could Be Better:
- Limited Format Support: Does not include less common image file formats.
- No Recent Updates: The software has not been updated since 2015.
- Windows Specific: Only available for Windows users.
SendTo-Convert stands out for its automation capabilities, making it an exceptional choice for those looking to streamline their workflow. By simply right-clicking on an image and selecting Send to > SendTo-Convert, you can convert images directly without needing to open the program.
You can set the default output format, quality, size, and output folder in advance, allowing for rapid image conversions without any additional interaction—a real time-saver!
Supported Formats:
- Input: BMP, PNG, JPEG, GIF, TIFF
- Output: BMP, PNG, JPEG, GIF
The download page for SendTo-Convert lists several other programs, with SendTo-Convert at the bottom. It’s officially compatible with Windows 8, 7, Vista, and XP, but it should also work seamlessly on Windows 11 and 10. A portable version is available for those who prefer not to install software directly on their systems.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a professional photographer, a graphic designer, or just someone looking to manage a large library of images, the right tools can make all the difference. From online services that simplify conversions without the need for downloads, like Image Candy and Zamzar, to robust desktop applications like Adapter and DVDVideoSoft’s Free Image Convert and Resize, there’s a solution out there to meet virtually any need.
Each tool offers unique features, from batch processing capabilities to advanced customization options, ensuring that whether you need a quick format change or detailed image adjustments, you have the resources at your fingertips. While some tools excel in ease of use and accessibility, others offer more comprehensive support for a variety of file formats.
Remember to consider your specific requirements—like the types of files you typically work with, the volume of images you need to process, and your operating system—when choosing an image converter. And while newer software may offer more contemporary features, don’t overlook older programs that might still perfectly meet your needs despite a lack of recent updates.
Ultimately, the best image converter is one that not only fits your technical requirements but also fits seamlessly into your workflow, enhancing productivity without sacrificing quality.
FAQ
1. What are the advantages of using an online image converter?
Online image converters like Image Candy and Zamzar offer the convenience of converting images without the need to download and install software. They are accessible from any device with internet access and are ideal for quick, one-time conversions.
2. Can I convert multiple images at once with these tools?
Yes, several tools mentioned, such as XnConvert and Adapter, support batch conversions, allowing you to convert multiple images at once. This feature is particularly useful for professionals who need to handle large volumes of images efficiently.
3. Are there image converters that don’t require downloading any software?
Yes, many of the tools reviewed, including Coolutils and FileZigZag, operate entirely online. These services allow you to convert images directly through your web browser, eliminating the need for software installation.
4. What should I do if I need to convert images in less common formats?
For less common formats, consider using a robust tool like XnConvert, which supports around 500 input formats and about 80 output formats. It’s especially useful for dealing with rare or unusual file types.
5. How do I choose the best image converter for my needs?
When choosing an image converter, consider the types of file formats you work with, the volume of images you need to process, whether you need batch processing capabilities, and your operating system. Tools like Adapter and DVDVideoSoft’s Free Image Convert and Resize offer features that might be specifically beneficial depending on your requirements.
6. What are the limitations of free image converters?
Free image converters often have limitations such as a cap on the number of conversions per day, file size restrictions, or a limited number of supported formats. Additionally, some may include ads or try to install additional software during the setup process.
