Why Convert AVIF to PNG? 7 Essential Reasons (2025)

Introduction: When Modern Format Meets Universal Standard

AVIF's impressive compression makes it ideal for web delivery, delivering 50-90% file size reductions compared to JPEG while maintaining excellent quality. However, PNG's universal compatibility, lossless quality, and 25+ year track record remain irreplaceable for many critical use cases. Understanding when to convert AVIF to PNG ensures you choose the right format for each situation, optimizing both performance and compatibility.

This comprehensive guide explores seven essential reasons why converting AVIF to PNG is often necessary, backed by real-world examples, use case scenarios, and practical workflows. Whether you're a designer, developer, marketer, or photographer, you'll discover when PNG's proven reliability outweighs AVIF's modern efficiency.

Reason 1: Universal Software Compatibility

The Challenge: AVIF's Limited Desktop Support

While AVIF browser support has reached an impressive 92% globally as of 2025, desktop software support lags significantly behind. Many professional tools, productivity applications, and industry-standard software don't yet support AVIF, creating compatibility gaps in professional workflows.

PNG's Unmatched Compatibility

PNG has been a standard format since 1996, earning universal support across virtually every application:

Design and Creative Software

Adobe Creative Suite: Full native support in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Lightroom, XD, and After Effects (some versions require AVIF plugins)
Sketch: Complete PNG support, limited AVIF support
Figma: Exports to PNG seamlessly, inconsistent AVIF import
Affinity Designer/Photo: Robust PNG support, partial AVIF support
GIMP: Full PNG support across all versions, newer versions only for AVIF
Canva: PNG fully supported, AVIF upload limited
CorelDRAW: Comprehensive PNG support, minimal AVIF support

Office and Productivity Applications

Microsoft Office: Word, PowerPoint, Excel fully support PNG; AVIF support absent in most versions
Google Workspace: Docs, Slides, Sheets work perfectly with PNG; inconsistent AVIF rendering
LibreOffice: Full PNG support; AVIF support limited to newest versions
Apple iWork: Pages, Keynote, Numbers handle PNG natively; AVIF support varies
Notion: PNG images display universally; AVIF may not render for all users

Communication and Collaboration Tools

Email clients: Outlook, Gmail, Apple Mail, Thunderbird all support PNG; zero support AVIF in email bodies
Slack: PNG uploads and previews work perfectly; AVIF support inconsistent
Microsoft Teams: Full PNG support; limited AVIF rendering
Zoom: PNG backgrounds and content share flawlessly; AVIF compatibility issues

Operating System and File Viewers

Windows Photo Viewer: Native PNG support; requires codec pack for AVIF
macOS Preview: PNG opens instantly; AVIF support requires macOS 13+
Windows Paint: PNG works universally; no AVIF support
File managers: PNG thumbnails generate automatically; AVIF thumbnails often missing

Real-World Scenario: Design Handoff

Imagine you're a web designer delivering final assets to a client:

Client uses: Microsoft PowerPoint 2019 for internal presentations
AVIF files: Won't import or display correctly, causing confusion and delays
PNG files: Import seamlessly, display perfectly, no technical support needed
Result: Converting AVIF to PNG before delivery prevents client issues and support tickets

When to Convert for Compatibility

Before importing images into Adobe Creative Suite (if you don't have AVIF plugin)
When creating presentations in PowerPoint, Keynote, or Google Slides
Sharing images with clients or collaborators using unknown software
Inserting images into documents, spreadsheets, or productivity tools
Uploading to platforms with inconsistent AVIF support
Preparing assets for team members who may use diverse applications

Reason 2: Lossless Quality for Editing Workflows

The Importance of Lossless Compression

In professional editing workflows, maintaining perfect image quality through multiple editing sessions is critical. While AVIF supports both lossy and lossless compression, its lossy mode is far more common and efficient, making it less suitable for editing-intensive workflows.

PNG's Editing Advantages

Perfect quality preservation: Every pixel value remains mathematically identical to the original
No generation loss: Re-save hundreds of times without any quality degradation
Editing-friendly compression: Lossless compression optimized for repeated save cycles
Predictable file sizes: Consistent compression ratios make file management easier
No compression artifacts: Zero blocking, banding, or edge artifacts that can compound through edits

AVIF's Editing Limitations

Lossy compression dominant: Most AVIF files use lossy compression for efficiency
Generation loss risk: Re-encoding lossy AVIF multiple times degrades quality
Slower encoding: AVIF encoding is 10-20x slower than PNG, slowing iterative workflows
Software limitations: Many editing tools don't support AVIF save/export

Multi-Stage Editing Workflow Example

Consider a product photography editing workflow:

Initial edit: Color correction and exposure adjustments in Lightroom
Detail work: Blemish removal and sharpening in Photoshop
Composite creation: Combining multiple shots for perfect product shot
Final adjustments: Last-minute color tweaks and resizing
Format optimization: Export to final delivery format

With PNG: Each save maintains perfect quality, final image identical to what you see in editor

With AVIF (lossy): Each re-encode potentially introduces artifacts, final quality may degrade

Best Practice: Edit in PNG, Deliver in Optimized Format

Professional workflow recommendation:

Master files: Keep in lossless format (PNG, TIFF, PSD)
Editing workflow: Work exclusively with lossless formats
Final delivery: Export to AVIF for web, PNG for print/archival
Archive: Store master PNG files for future edits

Reason 3: Email Marketing Compatibility

The Email Client Problem

Email clients have notoriously poor support for modern image formats, lagging years or even decades behind web browsers. As of 2025, AVIF support in email clients remains at exactly 0% - not a single major email client supports displaying AVIF images.

Email Client AVIF Support Status (2025)

Email Client	Market Share	AVIF Support	PNG Support
Apple Mail (iPhone)	36%	No	Yes
Gmail	28%	No	Yes
Apple Mail (Desktop)	11%	No	Yes
Outlook (Desktop)	8%	No	Yes
Yahoo Mail	5%	No	Yes
Outlook.com	3%	No	Yes

What Happens When You Send AVIF in Email

When you embed AVIF images in email campaigns, recipients see:

Broken image icons: Generic placeholder images instead of your content
Blank spaces: Missing images disrupting email layout
Alt text only: Text description without visual content
Professional credibility damage: Broken emails reflect poorly on your brand

Email Marketing Best Practices

For reliable email delivery:

Always use PNG or JPEG: These formats work universally across all email clients
Optimize file sizes: Keep email images under 200KB each for fast loading
Use PNG for graphics: Logos, buttons, icons with transparency
Use JPEG for photos: Product images, lifestyle photography
Test across clients: Verify images display in major email clients before sending

Email Marketing Workflow

Design email template: Create email design with image placeholders
Export graphics as PNG: Convert any AVIF assets to PNG (logos, buttons, graphics)
Optimize photos as JPEG: Compress photographs to JPEG at 80-90% quality
Host images: Upload to reliable image hosting or email service provider
Test thoroughly: Send test emails to multiple clients (Gmail, Outlook, Apple Mail, etc.)
Monitor deliverability: Check that images load correctly for recipients

Real-World Example: E-commerce Newsletter

An e-commerce company sends weekly product newsletters:

Subscribers: 50,000 email subscribers
Mistake: Designer uses AVIF images from website directly in email template
Result: Images don't display for 100% of recipients
Impact: Zero click-through rate, wasted campaign, customer confusion
Solution: Convert all AVIF images to PNG/JPEG before email deployment
Outcome: Images display perfectly, normal engagement metrics restored

Reason 4: Long-Term Archival and Future-Proofing

The Archival Challenge

When storing images for long-term preservation (10+ years), format longevity and universal readability become critical considerations. While AVIF will likely remain readable for decades, PNG has already proven its longevity over 25+ years.

PNG's Proven Track Record

Released: 1996 (29 years of proven stability)
Standardization: ISO/IEC 15948:2003 international standard
Backward compatibility: PNG files from 1996 still open perfectly in 2025
Ubiquitous support: Every platform can read PNG files
Simple specification: Well-documented, easy to implement decoders
No patent issues: Completely open, no licensing concerns

AVIF's Archival Uncertainties

Released: 2019 (only 6 years old as of 2025)
Complexity: Sophisticated codec requiring complex decoder implementations
Future support: Unknown whether all platforms will maintain support long-term
Decoder availability: Will decoders be available in 20-30 years?

Archival Best Practices

For long-term image archiving:

Store masters as PNG: Lossless quality, universal readability, proven longevity
Document metadata: Embed comprehensive metadata in PNG files
Maintain multiple copies: Follow 3-2-1 backup rule (3 copies, 2 different media, 1 offsite)
Periodically verify: Check archived images every 2-3 years to ensure readability
Consider migration: If storing AVIF archives, plan to periodically convert to current formats

Archival Use Cases

Photography portfolios: Professional photographers archiving lifetime work
Corporate branding: Companies preserving historical logos and marketing materials
Medical imaging: Healthcare institutions storing diagnostic images
Historical preservation: Museums and archives digitizing collections
Legal documentation: Law firms archiving visual evidence
Family photos: Preserving memories for future generations

Reason 5: Print Production Requirements

The Print Industry Standard

Professional printing workflows rely on established, tested formats. Print shops, commercial printers, and professional printing software have standardized on formats like PNG, TIFF, and PDF for reliable, predictable results.

Why Print Prefers PNG

Lossless quality: Essential for maintaining print-quality resolution and detail
Universal support: Every print RIP (Raster Image Processor) supports PNG
Color accuracy: Predictable color reproduction across print workflows
Transparency handling: PNG transparency works reliably in print layout software
No compression artifacts: Clean edges and solid colors print perfectly
Industry familiarity: Print technicians know how to handle PNG files correctly

AVIF Print Limitations

Lack of software support: Most print RIPs don't support AVIF
Color management uncertainty: Unpredictable color space handling
Lossy compression concerns: Compression artifacts can be visible in print
Workflow integration: Doesn't integrate with standard print production pipelines

Print Production Workflow

Image preparation: Edit and finalize images at print resolution (300 DPI minimum)
Convert to PNG: Save as PNG-24 for photographs, PNG-8 for simple graphics
Embed color profile: Include appropriate color profile (CMYK for offset printing)
Import to layout: Place PNG files in InDesign, Illustrator, or other layout software
Preflight check: Verify images meet printer specifications
Export print PDF: Create high-quality PDF with embedded images

Print Applications Requiring PNG

Business cards: Logo and graphics need perfect quality
Brochures and flyers: Marketing materials require sharp images
Posters and banners: Large format printing needs lossless sources
Packaging design: Product packaging requires exact color reproduction
Magazine advertising: Print ads need highest quality images
Book publishing: Illustrations and photos for print books

Reason 6: Legacy System and Enterprise Support

The Enterprise Technology Gap

Enterprise environments, government agencies, educational institutions, and large organizations often operate systems that are 5-10 years behind consumer technology. These systems require universal format compatibility for reliable operation.

Legacy System Scenarios

Windows 7/8 workstations: Still common in enterprises, no native AVIF support
Older server software: Web servers and CMS platforms may not handle AVIF
Legacy databases: Image management systems built for traditional formats
Industrial systems: Manufacturing and automation systems with embedded displays
Point-of-sale systems: Retail displays and kiosks with fixed software
Digital signage: Many digital signs run older software with limited format support

Enterprise Compatibility Requirements

Large organizations need formats that work across:

Diverse operating systems: Windows 7/10/11, macOS, Linux distributions
Varied software versions: Mix of current and legacy application versions
Multiple departments: Different teams using different tools
Global locations: International offices with different IT standards
Vendor systems: Third-party platforms and integrations

Real-World Enterprise Example

Large healthcare network scenario:

Environment: 50 hospital locations, 10,000+ workstations
Systems: Mix of Windows 7, Windows 10, and Windows 11
Challenge: Deploying updated patient education materials with images
AVIF attempt: New materials use AVIF for file size efficiency
Problem: AVIF images don't display on 40% of workstations (Windows 7/8)
Solution: Convert all AVIF images to PNG for universal compatibility
Result: Materials display correctly on 100% of systems

Reason 7: Client Deliverables and Professional Standards

Professional Deliverable Expectations

When delivering final assets to clients, using widely-compatible formats demonstrates professionalism and prevents technical support issues. Clients expect files that work immediately, without requiring technical troubleshooting.

Why Clients Prefer PNG Deliverables

Zero technical friction: Files open immediately on any computer
No additional software needed: Clients don't need special viewers or plugins
Cross-platform reliability: Works on Windows, Mac, Linux, mobile
Future-proof: Files will remain accessible for years
Professional standard: PNG is recognized industry deliverable format
Print-ready: Can be used directly in print production

Professional Deliverable Package

Standard client deliverable structure:

project-deliverables/
├── web-optimized/
│   ├── hero-image.avif (for web use)
│   ├── product-photos.avif (web delivery)
│   └── README.txt (usage instructions)
├── print-ready/
│   ├── logo.png (high-res PNG)
│   ├── product-photos-300dpi.png
│   └── README.txt (print specifications)
├── source-files/
│   ├── master-files.psd
│   └── editable-sources.ai
└── README.txt (main delivery instructions)

Client Deliverable Scenarios

Scenario 1: Logo Design Package

SVG for web scalability
PNG (various sizes) for universal compatibility
PDF for print production
AVIF optional, only if client specifically requests

Scenario 2: Website Design Assets

AVIF/WebP for modern web delivery
PNG fallbacks for compatibility
High-res PNG masters for future editing
Documentation explaining optimal usage

Scenario 3: Marketing Campaign Assets

PNG for presentation use (PowerPoint, Keynote)
PNG for email marketing
High-res PNG for print materials
AVIF versions for web landing pages

Decision Framework: When to Convert AVIF to PNG

Quick Decision Chart

Use Case	Convert to PNG?	Why?
Email marketing	Always	Zero email client support for AVIF
Print production	Always	Print workflows require lossless formats
Client deliverables	Usually	Ensures universal compatibility
Editing workflows	Always	Maintain lossless quality through edits
Long-term archival	Recommended	Proven longevity and future readability
Office documents	Always	Office apps have poor AVIF support
Social media posts	Usually	Platforms may convert/compress AVIF unpredictably
Web delivery (modern browsers)	No	AVIF provides superior compression
App assets (iOS/Android)	Depends	Check target platform support
Enterprise systems	Usually	Legacy system compatibility

How to Convert AVIF to PNG

Method 1: Online Conversion (Easiest)

For quick, hassle-free conversion:

Visit AVIF2PNG.app
Drag and drop your AVIF files (or click to browse)
Files convert automatically in your browser
Download PNG files individually or as ZIP
100% free, unlimited conversions, complete privacy

Method 2: Desktop Software

For offline conversion:

XnConvert: Free, cross-platform, batch conversion
IrfanView: Free Windows app, fast conversion
Adobe Photoshop: Professional editing suite (requires AVIF plugin)

Method 3: Command Line (Developers)

For automated workflows:

# Using ImageMagick
magick convert image.avif image.png

# Batch convert all AVIF files
magick mogrify -format png *.avif

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Assuming AVIF Works Everywhere

Problem: Sending AVIF files to clients or using in presentations without testing compatibility.

Solution: Default to PNG for professional deliverables unless you've confirmed AVIF support.

Mistake 2: Using AVIF in Email Campaigns

Problem: Embedding AVIF images in email newsletters, resulting in broken images for all recipients.

Solution: Always convert to PNG or JPEG before using images in email marketing.

Mistake 3: Editing AVIF Files Repeatedly

Problem: Re-saving lossy AVIF files through multiple editing sessions, compounding quality loss.

Solution: Edit PNG masters, export to AVIF only for final delivery.

Mistake 4: Archiving Only in AVIF

Problem: Storing irreplaceable images only as AVIF without PNG backups.

Solution: Keep PNG masters for archival, use AVIF for web delivery copies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will converting AVIF to PNG improve quality?

No. Conversion to PNG preserves the quality present in the AVIF file but cannot recover detail lost during AVIF compression. If the AVIF was created with lossy compression, the PNG will maintain that quality level - neither better nor worse.

Can I convert PNG to AVIF and back without losing quality?

Only if you use AVIF lossless compression. Most AVIF files use lossy compression for efficiency, so converting PNG → AVIF (lossy) → PNG results in some quality loss from the lossy AVIF compression step.

Why don't email clients support AVIF?

Email clients prioritize security, stability, and universal compatibility over cutting-edge features. Adding AVIF support requires significant development effort, and email clients move slowly to avoid breaking existing content. PNG and JPEG already work universally, so there's limited incentive to add AVIF support.

Is PNG better than AVIF?

Neither is universally "better" - they excel in different scenarios. AVIF is better for web delivery (smaller files, faster loading). PNG is better for editing, archival, compatibility, and situations requiring universal support. Use both strategically based on your specific needs.

How much larger will PNG files be compared to AVIF?

Typically 10-20x larger for photographic content. A 100KB AVIF photo might become 1-2MB as PNG. For simple graphics, the difference is smaller - a 50KB AVIF logo might be 60-80KB as PNG. This size increase is expected because PNG is lossless while AVIF typically uses lossy compression.

Conclusion

While AVIF excels at web delivery with its superior compression, PNG remains essential for universal compatibility, lossless editing workflows, email marketing, print production, archival storage, legacy system support, and professional deliverables.

The key to image format optimization isn't choosing one format over another, but understanding when each format serves your needs best. Keep PNG masters for editing and archival, deliver AVIF for web performance, and convert between formats strategically based on your specific use case.

Our free AVIF to PNG converter makes it effortless to convert whenever your workflow demands PNG's universal compatibility. Convert unlimited files, completely free, with total privacy - all processing happens in your browser, and files never leave your device.

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