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Vgaspar's avatar
Vgaspar
Copper Contributor
Oct 25, 2024

What is the best way to convert heic to png on Windows 11 for large amount?

I've recently upgraded to Windows 11 and find myself in need of converting a large number of HEIC images to PNG format so I can edit and share with others. These images (around 600) are copied from my iPhone 14 Pro Max.

 

I'm looking for an efficient and reliable method that can handle bulk conversions without compromising the quality of the images. It's important that the process is streamlined and doesn't require extensive manual intervention, as I'm dealing with hundreds of photos.

 

Could anyone suggest the best approach for converting .heic to .png on Windows 11? Ideally, I'm looking for a solution that balances ease of use with functionality, and it would be great if it's something that won't be too heavy on system resources. Any tips or personal experiences with specific tools would be greatly appreciated!

  • Salomh's avatar
    Salomh
    Copper Contributor

    HEIC is all about keeping things light, while PNG files tend to be heavier since they don’t compress as efficiently. So, converting a bunch of HEIC files to PNG is like trading in a compact car for a big ol’ SUV—you’re gonna use more space. If you’re short on storage, that could be a bummer, especially if you’re converting a whole folder of photos.

  • Pallerm's avatar
    Pallerm
    Copper Contributor

    While HEIC files are generally smaller in size compared to JPEG, PNG files can be larger due to their lack of compression. However, if you don’t mind the size increase for the sake of quality and compatibility, converting might be worthwhile.

    If you’re using a Windows computer and want a quick solution without downloading specific software to handle HEIC files, there are many online HEIC to PNG converters available. Just upload your HEIC file, choose PNG as the output, and download it in no time!

  • Samuelloon's avatar
    Samuelloon
    Copper Contributor

    Vgaspar The HEIF Image Extensions are add-ons for Windows that enable support for HEIF files, allowing users to view and edit images stored in the HEIF format. HEIF is a modern image format that provides high-quality images with smaller file sizes compared to older formats like PNG.

     

    This format is widely used in Apple's ecosystem and includes variations like HEIC (High Efficiency Image Coding), which is commonly used for photos on iOS devices. Once you install the extension on a Windows 11 PC, then you are able to convert heic to png on PC with the built-in photos or piants app.

  • sedikegrosch's avatar
    sedikegrosch
    Copper Contributor

    The HEIF Image Extensions add the capability for Windows applications, such as the Photos app, to open HEIF and HEIC files. However, to fully support HEIF files, users might also need the HEVC Video Extensions, as HEIF files often rely on the HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) codec for compression.

     

    These heic to png converter extensions can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store. This enables Windows 11 and 10 PC to natively support HEIF and HEIC formats.

  • Emopma's avatar
    Emopma
    Copper Contributor
    HEIC is relatively new, and while Windows 10 and 11 natively support it now, many older programs, websites, or devices may not handle HEIC files well. PNG is a much more universally recognized format, so converting ensures you can view and share your images without any hiccups.
  • Estorehf's avatar
    Estorehf
    Copper Contributor

    Some heic to png converter for Windows 11 give you options for quality during conversion. If you just hit “convert” without checking those settings, you might end up with subpar images. Certain online tools can compress your images or reduce quality to save space. Always make sure you’re set to the best quality available when converting!

    Before converting, make sure you’ve backed up your original HEIC files. I’ve learned the hard way that tech can be fickle. If something goes sideways—like a power outage or a glitch in your software—you might lose your originals. So, store them somewhere safe before you start fiddling around.

    When converting, keep an eye on where those files are being saved! I’ve had several “Where did my file go?” moments because I didn’t pay attention to the directory. Choose a location you can easily access and give your new files recognizable names, especially if you’re converting a bunch. Otherwise, you might end up with something like “IMG_003” and have no clue what it is.

  • Matopias's avatar
    Matopias
    Copper Contributor

    Libheif is an open-source library specifically designed to handle HEIF and HEIC (High Efficiency Image Coding) files. This format is known for its efficient image compression, enabling high-quality images in smaller file sizes compared to traditional formats like JPEG. 

     

    With Libheif’s heif-convert utility, users can easily convert HEIC images to other formats, including PNG. This process allows PC users to view and edit HEIC images across a range of applications that may not support HEIC natively. Here’s a quick guide to using Libheif for bulk converting heic to png on Windows:

    heif-convert input-image.heic output-image.png

    Once the conversion completes, your new PNG file will be available in the specified directory, ready to be opened and edited.

    • Pmelia's avatar
      Pmelia
      Copper Contributor

      Matopias To run Libheif effectively, especially on Windows, you may need to install additional dependencies or libraries. This can complicate setup and may require some technical knowledge.

       

      Unlike more feature-rich HEIC to PNG converter tools, Libheif’s command-line interface is limited in editing capabilities. For instance, it does not offer advanced image editing, resizing, or compression options directly in the command.

       

      Libheif doesn’t support batch processing out of the box, so if you need to convert multiple HEIC images to PNG, you’ll have to use a script to automate the process or convert each image individually, which can be time-consuming.

  • Sheryl_Garvey's avatar
    Sheryl_Garvey
    Copper Contributor

    If you specifically need that transparency feature in PNGs when you convert HEIC images to PNG format on Windows 11 computer, make sure to choose an option in the converter that preserves transparency. Some conversions may flatten the image and remove transparency, turning your graphics into solid backgrounds. This was a little lesson I learned when I planned a transparent logo for a project but ended up with a solid white background.

    If you’re using a desktop application, ensure it’s up to date. Sometimes, older versions might have bugs or compatibility issues with HEIC files. Before hitting convert, check if there are updates available for your software that might improve functionality.

  • Zoeul's avatar
    Zoeul
    Copper Contributor

    You can utilize iCloud's feature to automatically convert HEIC photos to JPG when downloading them to a non-Apple device, such as a Windows PC. This method is straightforward and doesn’t require any additional software installation.

     

    How to convert heic to png free on Windows 10 PC:

     

    1. Open the iCloud app on your Windows PC and enable Photos if it isn’t already checked. This syncs your iCloud photos to a folder on your PC.

     

    2. In the iCloud Photos settings, check the option to Download photos and videos. iCloud for Windows automatically converts HEIC photos to JPG format when downloading them, making them compatible with Windows applications.

     

    3. Navigate to the iCloud Photos folder on your PC, typically located in File Explorer under Quick Access > iCloud Photos.

     

    4. Select the HEIC photos you want to download. When you download them to your PC, they will automatically convert to JPG format.

     

  • Bdskm's avatar
    Bdskm
    Copper Contributor

    I have encountered a similar situation before. I had a lot of HEIC format photos that needed to be converted to JPG in batches. In the end, I used TunsBro HEIC Converter, and the effect was really good! It supports batch processing and can maintain the original quality of the pictures. It is especially suitable for processing hundreds of photos like you. 

    I followed this tutorial (worked for me)

    https://www.recodie.com/convert-heic-photos-to-jpg

    I recommend trying it!

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