AVIF stands for AV1 Image File Format. It’s a new, highly efficient image format that can produce smaller files than JPEG or PNG — with better image quality, especially for high-detail or HDR photos.
AVIF is based on the same compression technology used in modern video formats like AV1. It supports transparency like PNG, and looks great at very low file sizes.
Why AVIF Matters
- Tiny file sizes without losing detail
- Supports transparency and HDR
- Better compression than JPEG or WebP in many cases
But there’s a catch: not all apps or devices support AVIF yet. While web browsers like Chrome and Firefox do, some older image editors or viewers may not.
When to Use AVIF
- For websites or apps where performance and load speed matter
- When you want high quality with small file sizes
- When transparency or HDR support is important
Tips
- Check compatibility if you’re sending AVIF files to others — not everyone can open them yet
- Keep a fallback (like JPEG) if you're using AVIF online
- AVIF isn’t ideal for print — use TIFF or high-res JPEGs instead