AVIF vs WebP: Next-Generation Image Format Showdown

AVIF and WebP represent the latest generation of image formats, both promising better compression than traditional JPG and PNG. Understanding their differences helps choose the right format for your needs.

Format Overview

WebP (2010)

Developed by Google, based on VP8 video codec. Widely supported and well-established.

AVIF (2019)

Based on AV1 video codec. Newer format with even better compression but less support.

Comparison

When to Use AVIF

• Maximum compression needed - Best file size reduction
• Modern browsers only - Can use fallbacks for older
• HDR content - Superior HDR support
• Large images - No resolution limits
• Encoding time isn't critical - Batch processing overnight

When to Use WebP

• Broader compatibility - More browser support
• Faster encoding - Better for real-time conversion
• Already good enough - 25-35% reduction is significant
• Animation replacement for GIF - Smaller animated images

Browser Support

AVIF Support

• Chrome 85+ (2020)
• Firefox 93+ (2021)
• Safari 16.4+ (2023)
• Edge 121+ (2024)

WebP Support

• Chrome 9+ (2011)
• Firefox 65+ (2019)
• Safari 14+ (2020)
• Edge 18+ (2018)

Implementation Best Practices

Use Picture Element for Fallbacks

<picture>
  <source srcset="image.avif" type="image/avif">
  <source srcset="image.webp" type="image/webp">
  <img src="image.jpg" alt="Description">
</picture>

Progressive Enhancement

Serve AVIF to browsers that support it, WebP to those that don't, and JPG/PNG as final fallback.

Quality Comparison

At equivalent visual quality:

• 100KB JPG = ~75KB WebP = ~50KB AVIF
• AVIF shows fewer artifacts at high compression
• WebP can have slight color banding at very low quality

Recommendations

• For maximum optimization: Use AVIF with WebP fallback
• For simplicity: Use WebP alone (excellent support)
• For universal compatibility: Keep JPG/PNG with WebP enhancement