Many of us encounter this conundrum when working with image files: is JPG the same as JPEG? This subtle difference in file names is more than a curiosity — it’s a detail that often trips up photographers, graphic designers, marketers, and anyone dealing with digital images.
In this article, we’ll break down what these file types actually are, compare their key differences, and offer a simple guide to how to convert JPEG to JPG, among other details. So, let’s dive in and resolve this digital dilemma once and for all.
What is JPG?
JPG is one of the most popular formats for digital photos because it compresses images to keep file sizes small while maintaining high quality. This makes it ideal for online sharing and storage. The acronym "JPG" stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group, the organization behind the development of this image format. Despite many benefits, the fact that JPG images use lossy compression means that some detail and quality are lost in the process, making them less suitable for professional uses like printing.
What is JPEG?
JPEG is simply another name for JPG. In the past, early Windows systems only allowed three-character file extensions, resulting in ".jpg" for compatibility, while other platforms used ".jpeg." Both formats serve the same purpose: compressing images to save space without significantly sacrificing quality.
Difference between JPG and JPEG
JPG, same as JPEG, are virtually identical, with the only difference being their file extensions. This makes them interchangeable, providing the same quality and functionality.
What are JPG/JPEG files good for?
First and foremost, JPEG and JPG are perfect for saving and sharing photos. They are widely used for websites, social media posts, and email attachments, where clear images are needed without large file sizes. Commonly used by digital cameras, these formats are also great for creating online galleries, digital portfolios, and mobile apps, where smaller file sizes help with faster loading times.
When are JPG/JPEG not ideal?
For projects requiring high detail and sharp quality, such as large prints, logos, or intricate graphics, JPG or JPEG files may not be ideal. These formats use lossy compression, which reduces file size but sacrifices some quality, especially with repeated saves. If high resolution is essential, it’s better to use image file formats like PNG, TIFF, or RAW, which use lossless compression, preserving every detail without compromising clarity.
How to convert JPEG to JPG
Although we've already established that these formats are identical, there may be certain situations when converting may be necessary. For example, you may need to change JPEG to JPG format when using older systems or software that requires the three-letter JPG extension. Here’s how can do it with PDF Guru:
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- Go to the JPEG to JPG tool. Follow the link or navigate to the Convert menu in the header.
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- Hit the + button or drag & drop your JPEG file into the window.
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- Wait a few seconds for the converter to complete the process.
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- The converted JPG will be downloaded to your device and securely saved in your PDF Guru account.
You can also use our online platform when you need to convert JPG or JPEG to PNG, JPEG to PDF, and vice versa.
So, are JPG and JPEG the same thing?
Yes, JPG and JPEG refer to the same format — the difference is only in the name. When older versions of Windows could only handle three-letter file extensions, JPEG was shortened to JPG for compatibility. Otherwise, they both work the same way to compress photos and reduce file sizes, so you can use both without affecting image quality.