How to compress an image
- Drop a JPG, PNG or WEBP image onto the tool, or click to choose one from your device.
- Pick an output format. WEBP usually gives the smallest file, JPG is the most compatible, and PNG is lossless.
- Move the quality slider. Around 70–80% is a good balance for photos; go lower if you need to hit a strict size limit.
- Optionally switch the size mode to Custom and set a maximum width and height - downscaling is the single biggest saver for large camera photos.
- Compare the original and compressed versions side by side, check the new file size, then download.
How to get an image under a size limit
Job portals, government forms and email attachments often cap uploads at 50 KB, 100 KB or 1 MB. The fastest way to get there is to combine two settings: reduce the pixel dimensions first (a passport photo rarely needs to be wider than 600 px), then lower the quality until the file-size readout drops under your target.
If a PNG stays too large no matter what, convert it to JPG or WEBP. PNG is lossless, so the quality slider has no effect on it; photos saved as PNG are often five to ten times larger than the same photo as a JPG.
JPG vs PNG vs WEBP
JPG is the safe choice for photos - every device and website accepts it. PNG keeps sharp edges and transparency, which suits logos, screenshots and graphics with text. WEBP supports both lossy and transparent images and is typically 25–35% smaller than JPG at the same visual quality; all modern browsers support it, though some older upload forms still reject it.
Why compressing in your browser is more private
Most online compressors upload your photo to a server, process it there and send it back. This one uses your browser’s built-in canvas encoder, so the image never leaves your device. That’s worth having when the photo is an ID card, a signed document or anything else personal - and it also means there’s no upload wait on slow connections.
Frequently asked questions
Does compressing an image reduce its quality?
Lossy formats (JPG and WEBP) discard some detail, but at 70–85% quality the difference is usually invisible at normal viewing size. Use the side-by-side preview to check before downloading. PNG output is lossless.
Are my images uploaded to a server?
No. Compression runs entirely in your browser using the HTML canvas. Your image is never sent to Pikden or any third party.
How do I compress an image to 50 KB or 100 KB?
Set a smaller maximum width (for example 800 px), choose JPG or WEBP, then lower the quality slider while watching the file size until it is under your limit.
Is there a file size or daily limit?
There is no limit set by Pikden. Very large images (over roughly 50 megapixels) may be slow on older phones because processing uses your device’s memory.