Optimizing images is one of the toughest parts of website optimization. That’s why site owners and WordPress agencies now prioritize image formats from the start. And why shouldn’t they? Image formats determine how quickly websites load, perform, and engage visitors.
To understand how big this impact could be, I converted a JPG image into various other file formats, and the difference is huge!
I mean, loading one PNG file is equivalent to loading 37 AVIF files on a page – Imagine.
If we look at image usage statistics, modern formats like WebP, celebrated for efficient compression, are gaining ground at 9.1%. AVIF emerges as another rising star gaining traction, currently adopted by just 0.1% of websites.
Though support for these formats is not much at present, the best WordPress hosting for agencies supports them already. The good news is – WordPress, from version 6.6, has extended support for AVIF and WebP.
In this article, we explore why AVIF, alongside WebP, represents the future of image optimization for WordPress sites. More importantly, we will explain how you can check if your WordPress hosting supports these image formats and how to create WebP/AVIF files.
Understanding WebP, AVIF, and Other Image Formats
Often, website owners and WordPress developers do not understand the world of image formats, so we will begin from there. Let’s figure out how various famous image formats differ and when to use WebP or AVIF (or other image formats).
What are WebP and AVIF?
WebP is a modern image format developed by Google that offers superior compression without compromising quality. It aims to reduce file sizes significantly while maintaining high image quality, making it an ideal choice for web developers looking to optimize their sites.
- Excellent Compression: Reduces file sizes while maintaining image quality.
- Supports Transparency: Handles transparent images like PNG but with smaller file sizes.
- Animation Support: Can replace GIFs with better compression and quality.
- Lossy and Lossless: Offers both compression types for different needs.
- Wide Compatibility: Supported by most modern browsers and applications.
On the other hand, AVIF (AV1 Image File Format) is an even newer image format that provides exceptional compression and image quality. It offers impressive file size reductions and supports advanced features like high dynamic range (HDR) imaging with the help of AV1 video codec.
- Superior Compression: Achieves smaller file sizes than WebP with similar or better quality.
- High Dynamic Range: Supports HDR images, offering better color depth and contrast.
- Efficient for Storage: Ideal for websites with lots of images as it compresses better.
- Modern Browsers Support: Increasingly supported by major browsers.
- Advanced: Supports both lossy and lossless compression, transparency, and animations.
Comparison: WebP vs. AVIF vs. JPEG vs. PNG
JPEG and PNG have been the most popular image formats of web imagery for years.
JPEG is known for balancing quality and file size in photographs, while PNG excels at preserving quality for images with transparency. However, WebP and AVIF are disrupting this balance by offering superior compression and quality.
You might be wondering how these 4 image formats compare, so here’s a quick overview:
| Feature | JPEG | PNG | WebP | AVIF |
| Compression | Lossy | Lossless | Lossy/Lossless | Lossy/Lossless |
| File Size | Moderate to Large | Large | Small | Smallest |
| Transparency | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Animation | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Browser Support | Universal | Universal | Most modern browsers | Growing support |
Too Technical? Let’s make it simpler to understand:
| Strengths | Weaknesses | |
| JPEG | Great for photographswidely supported | Larger file sizesNo transparency |
| PNG | Supports transparencyLossless compression | Larger file sizesEspecially for photos. |
| WebP | Superior compressionSupports transparency Works fine for animations. | Less supported (than JPEG/PNG) |
| AVIF | Best compressionAccepts HDRSupports transparencyWorks fine with animations. | Lacks support |
Use cases: When to use WebP vs. AVIF
Remember, “A picture is worth a thousand words,” so choosing the right format can significantly improve your website’s performance and user experience.
Provided your WordPress hosting supports both image formats, just like InstaWP Live does, here is how you can choose between the two:
WebP: Ideal for general use due to its excellent compression, transparency, and animation support. It is perfect for small and high-quality web images.
AVIF: Best for situations where superior compression is crucial, such as large galleries or image-heavy sites. Also ideal for high dynamic range images.
Why Your WordPress Website Should Use WebP and AVIF
Switching to modern image formats like WebP and AVIF can work wonders for your WordPress site. Here’s why to switch to these next-gen formats:
Improved Page Load Times
When it comes to user experience, speed is everything. WebP and AVIF offer exceptional compression, resulting in smaller file sizes without sacrificing quality. This means your pages load faster and have a low TTFB, keeping visitors engaged and reducing bounce rates.
SEO Advantages
Search engines love fast-loading websites. By using WebP and AVIF, you can boost your site’s performance metrics, which can positively impact your SEO rankings. Google has made it clear that page speed is a ranking factor, so faster load times can give you a competitive edge.
High-Quality Image Rendering
Both WebP and AVIF deliver stunning image quality. WebP provides impressive detail with efficient compression, while AVIF takes it a step further with high dynamic range (HDR) capabilities. Your images will look sharp and vibrant, enhancing the overall visual appeal of your site.
Reduction in Bandwidth Usage
With WebP and AVIF, you can significantly reduce the bandwidth required to serve images. Smaller file sizes mean less data transfer, which is particularly beneficial for mobile users and those with slower internet connections. This not only saves resources but also ensures a smoother experience for your audience
How to Check WebP/AVIF Format Support for your WordPress Site?
Step 1: Try Uploading a File
The simplest way to check support is by uploading a WebP or AVIF image to your WordPress media library. Go to Media > Add New Media File to do so.
If the upload is successful, your site likely supports the format. If you encounter an error, it’s time to dig deeper.
Step 2: Check PHP Version
PHP.Watch suggests that PHP 8.1 and later versions include the GD extension with AVIF support, but the GD extension must be compiled with AVIF support. So if your host or staging platform claims to support WebP and AVIF while you still face issues, your PHP version might be the culprit.
In case you want to use an older PHP version, ensure your server has the necessary libraries installed.
To check your PHP version:
- Go to your WordPress dashboard.
- Navigate to Tools > Site Health.
- Click on the Info tab and scroll to the Server section.
If your PHP version is below 8.1, you’ll need to upgrade. Many hosts allow you to change your PHP version through their control panel.
If you use InstaWP, it’s easy to upgrade your site’s PHP version in the blink of an eye.
For a staging site, click on its name and change the PHP version from the dropdown in the PHP Config settings.
For a site hosted with InstaWP Live, you can go to the site’s dashboard and update your site’s PHP version in less than a second.
Step 3: Use WP CLI to Check Server Support
PHP version seems ok?
For a more thorough check, use WP CLI (WordPress Command Line Interface) to verify if your server supports WebP and AVIF. Here’s how:
- Access your server via SSH.
Note: InstaWP users can save a custom command and run it from their dashboard itself.
Run the following command to check for supported image formats:
wp eval ‘var_dump(gd_info());’
Alternatively, you can use the following command too:
php -i
- Look for “WebP Support” and “AVIF Support” in the output.
If either is missing, it’s time to consult your hosting provider or consider switching to a host like InstaWP Live that offers full support for these modern formats.
InstaWP Live: Optimized Hosting for Modern Image Formats
InstaWP Live’s seamless integration of AVIF and WebP support means you don’t need to worry about technical complexities; simply focus on creating great content while InstaWP Live handles the optimization behind the scenes.
In case you don’t know – InstaWP Live is a managed WordPress hosting service optimized for speed, reliability, and ease of use. Designed specifically for WordPress sites, it offers features such as edge caching, built-in CDN, and global data centers, ensuring your website performs at its best.
AVIF and WebP Support on InstaWP Live (Managed WordPress Hosting)
InstaWP Live fully supports modern image formats like AVIF and WebP. These formats are seamlessly integrated into the platform, providing optimized image-handling capabilities. This support enhances website performance by reducing image sizes without compromising quality, leading to faster load times and improved user experiences.
Technical Capabilities and Server-Side Requirements
InstaWP Live’s infrastructure includes updated PHP versions and essential libraries like libavif and libwebp. This ensures compatibility and efficient processing of AVIF and WebP images. The service’s technical robustness ensures that your WordPress site benefits from the latest advancements in image optimization technology.
How to Create a WebP or AVIF File?
Creating WebP and AVIF files is straightforward with various online tools and software options available. Here’s how you can easily convert your images to these modern formats.
Method #1: Online Tools
For quick and easy conversions, online tools like Squoosh and Convertio are excellent options. Just upload your image, choose WebP or AVIF as the output format, and download the converted file. These tools are user-friendly and accessible from any device with internet access.
Method #2: Software Solutions
Software like Adobe Photoshop and GIMP support WebP and AVIF. For Photoshop, you might need a WebP plugin, while GIMP natively supports both formats. Simply open your image, go to “Export As” or “Save As,” and select WebP or AVIF from the format options.
Method #3: Command Line Tools
For a more technical approach, you can use command-line tools like cwebp for WebP and avifenc for AVIF. Install these tools via Homebrew on macOS or your package manager on Linux.
How to Extend Support for AVIF and WebP as a Hosting Provider?
For WordPress hosts looking to stay ahead of the curve, extending support for AVIF and WebP is a game-changer.
1. Ensure your server has the necessary libraries: libavif and libwebp.
2. Update PHP to version 8.1 or higher and recompile the GD extension with AVIF support. Alternatively, you can configure PHP GD and ImageMagick.
This setup empowers your hosting service to handle these modern, optimized image formats seamlessly.
Want a hassle-free solution?
Consider migrating to InstaWP Live, a white labeled hosting service that fully supports AVIF and WebP. This allows you to offer cutting-edge image optimization without the technical headaches. Plus, you get expert support, seamless integration, and advanced development tools.
InstaWP Live takes care of the heavy lifting, so you can focus on growing your business.
FAQs
1. What are the key differences between AVIF and WebP?
AVIF offers better compression and quality than WebP, particularly for images with gradients and detailed textures. However, WebP is more widely supported by browsers and tools, making it a safer choice for broader compatibility.
2. How do AVIF and WebP impact SEO?
Both formats improve SEO by reducing image file sizes, leading to faster page load times. Faster websites enhance user experience and are favored by search engines, potentially boosting your site’s ranking.
3. Can I convert existing images to AVIF or WebP?
Yes, you can convert existing images using tools like Photoshop, GIMP with plugins, or online converters. Command-line tools like ‘cwebp’ for WebP and ‘avifenc’ for AVIF are also effective for batch conversions.
4. Does WordPress Support WebP and AVIF Image Formats?
Yes, with the release of WordPress 6.6 (RC1 itself), support for both WebP and AVIF image formats has been extended. This update allows users to upload, convert, and serve these optimized image formats seamlessly, making it easier to enhance site performance and image quality. However, ensure your hosting environment supports these formats for full compatibility.
5. Does my WordPress Host Support AVIF and WEBP Formats?
Not all hosts are up-to-date with the latest image format support. While many support WebP, AVIF is less common due to its newer release. To check, you can upload a test image in these formats. If your host doesn’t support them, consider switching to one that does, like InstaWP Live, which is fully optimized for both WebP and AVIF.
6. Does my WordPress Staging Support AVIF/WEBP?
Staging environments may differ from live sites in terms of PHP versions and server configurations/infrastructure. Just a note – InstaWP’s staging environment supports these image formats, ensuring a smooth transition from development to production.
If your staging site doesn’t support AVIF or WebP, you might need to update your PHP version to 8.1 or higher. Check the PHP version of your website by navigating to Tools > Site Health, in case you are unsure.
7. Does InstaWP Live Support AVIF Format?
Absolutely! InstaWP Live (our managed hosting service) is built to support both WebP and AVIF image formats. During my testing, I could easily upload and manage these formats without any hassle. This seamless support helps in optimizing images for better performance and quality on your WordPress site, giving InstaWP Live an edge over many traditional hosts.