Compress JPG Online

JPEG is the most widely used image format for photographs. It achieves small file sizes by discarding visual information that the human eye is least sensitive to, such as subtle color gradients and fine texture details. The amount of data removed depends on the quality setting.

At quality 90-95, the compression is nearly invisible. At quality 60-70, files become much smaller with only minor visible softening. Below quality 40, you will start to see blocky artifacts around edges. This tool lets you preview every quality level before downloading.

JPEG compression is lossy, meaning each round of compression removes a bit more data. For best results, always compress from your original file rather than re-compressing an already compressed JPEG.

The relationship between quality and file size is not linear. Dropping from quality 100 to 85 can cut file size in half with virtually no visible change. Dropping from 85 to 60 saves another 30-40% but starts to affect fine detail. Below 40, the savings plateau while artifacts become obvious.

For web publishing, quality 75-80 is widely considered the sweet spot. The files are small enough for fast page loads while preserving enough detail for standard monitor viewing. For social media, even quality 70 works well because platforms apply their own compression on upload.

Photographers delivering client work should stay at quality 90 or above. The file size reduction is more modest (typically 20-40%), but every detail is preserved for potential printing or further editing.