Mac computers have native support for HEIC files, but you may still need to convert them to JPG for sharing with Windows users, uploading to certain websites, or archiving in a more universal format. Fortunately, macOS provides several built-in tools for HEIC conversion, and we'll cover the easiest methods in this guide.
Method 1: Using Preview (Fastest for Single Files)
Preview is the default image viewer on Mac and includes powerful conversion capabilities:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Locate your HEIC file in Finder
- Double-click the file to open it in Preview (or right-click and select "Open With" > "Preview")
- ClickFilein the menu bar
- SelectExport
- In the export dialog, click theFormatdropdown menu
- SelectJPEGfrom the list
- Use theQualityslider to adjust JPG quality (higher = better quality but larger file)
- Choose where to save the file and clickSave
Pro Tip:Set the quality slider to 90% or higher to maintain excellent image quality while still getting good compression.
Method 2: Using Photos App (Best for Batch Conversion)
If you have multiple HEIC files to convert, the Photos app offers a more efficient workflow:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Open thePhotosapp
- Import your HEIC files if they're not already in Photos
- Select the HEIC photos you want to convert (click and drag, or Cmd+click to select multiple)
- ClickFile>Export>Export Photos
- In the export dialog, change thePhoto KindtoJPEG
- Choose your preferredQualitysetting (Maximum, High, Medium, or Low)
- Select a destination folder
- ClickExport
This method converts all selected photos at once, saving significant time when working with many files.
Method 3: Quick Action in Finder (Requires Setup)
Mac's Automator can create a custom right-click action for instant conversion:
One-Time Setup:
- OpenAutomator(found in Applications folder)
- ClickNew Document
- SelectQuick Actionand clickChoose
- Set "Workflow receives current" toimage filesinFinder
- In the Actions library, search for "Change Type of Images"
- Drag this action to the workflow area
- Set the "To Type" dropdown toJPEG
- Save the Quick Action with a name like "Convert to JPEG"
Using Your Quick Action:
- Right-click any HEIC file in Finder
- Hover overQuick Actions
- ClickConvert to JPEG
- The converted file appears in the same folder
Method 4: Using Shortcuts App (macOS Monterey and Later)
The Shortcuts app provides another automation option:
- Open theShortcutsapp
- Click the+button to create a new shortcut
- Search for and add the action "Select Photos"
- Add the action "Convert Image" and set format to JPEG
- Add "Save File" and choose your destination
- Save the shortcut with a descriptive name
You can then run this shortcut anytime to convert HEIC files with just a few clicks.
Method 5: Drag and Drop to Desktop (Simple Export)
For a quick export from Photos:
- Open thePhotosapp
- Select the HEIC photo(s)
- Drag them directly to your Desktop or a Finder window
- macOS automatically converts them to JPEG during the drag
Note: This method uses default export settings and gives you less control over quality.
Understanding Quality Settings
When converting HEIC to JPG, you'll often see quality options:
- Maximum/High (90-100%):Best for archiving or printing, larger files
- Medium (70-80%):Good balance for general use and web sharing
- Low (50-60%):Smallest files, suitable for email or when quality is less critical
For most purposes, High quality (90%) provides excellent results without excessive file size.
Preserving Metadata
HEIC files contain important metadata like date taken, location, camera settings, and more. When converting:
- Preview preserves most EXIF data by default
- Photos app maintains all metadata during export
- Third-party tools vary - check settings to ensure metadata is preserved
If metadata is important (especially for professional photography), verify it's preserved after conversion using Preview's Inspector (Tools > Show Inspector).
Batch Conversion Tips
When converting many files:
- Create a dedicated folder for converted JPGs to keep files organized
- Use a naming convention to track original vs. converted files
- Consider keeping HEIC originals as backups (they're smaller)
- Process files in batches if you have hundreds to avoid system slowdown
Alternative: Online Conversion
If you prefer not to use desktop apps, web-based converters offer convenience:
- No software installation required
- Works from any device with a browser
- Some process files locally for privacy (like HEICdrop.net)
💡 Privacy-First Conversion
For sensitive photos, use HEICdrop.net which converts files entirely in your browser. Your photos never upload to servers, ensuring complete privacy while providing instant results.
Common Issues and Solutions
Problem: Preview Won't Export as JPEG
Solution:Make sure you're selecting "Export" not "Save As". Export offers format conversion options, while Save As maintains the original format.
Problem: Converted Files Are Too Large
Solution:Lower the quality slider in Preview or choose a lower quality setting in Photos. Quality of 80-90% usually provides excellent results with reasonable file sizes.
Problem: Colors Look Different After Conversion
Solution:This can happen due to color profile differences. In Preview, go to Tools > Assign Profile and ensure the correct color space is selected before exporting.
Conclusion
macOS provides excellent built-in tools for converting HEIC to JPG, from the simple drag-and-drop method to sophisticated automation with Quick Actions. Preview works perfectly for occasional conversions, while the Photos app excels at batch processing. Choose the method that best fits your workflow and frequency of conversion needs. With these tools at your disposal, HEIC compatibility concerns become a thing of the past.
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