Image format
What is a JFIF file?
A JFIF file is an ordinary JPEG photo that carries the .jfif extension. JFIF is the 1992 file layout most JPEG photos use internally; Windows and some browsers save downloaded images with the .jfif extension.
By Suprabhat Updated How we write these
When to use JFIF
You rarely choose JFIF; it is usually what a browser handed you. Convert or rename it to .jpg before uploading it anywhere.
It is best for nothing in particular — it is a JPEG with a confusing name, and it opens on most photo viewers, but many upload forms and some apps reject the .jfif extension.
How to open it: Most photo viewers open it, and renaming the file from .jfif to .jpg is often enough on its own.
| Full name | JPEG File Interchange Format |
|---|---|
| Extensions | .jfif |
| MIME type | image/jpeg |
| Introduced | 1992 |
| Compression | Lossy |
| Transparency | No |
| Animation | No |
| Support | Patchy support |
| Typical size | The same size as the equivalent JPG |
Good at
- The same photo-friendly compression as any JPG
Not so good at
- Upload forms that check the extension refuse it
- Some older apps don’t recognize it
The common mistake
People assume a .jfif file is a special format. It is a normal JPEG; the only real problem is forms that look at the extension and say no.
Questions
What is a JFIF file?
JFIF (JPEG File Interchange Format) is an ordinary JPEG photo that carries the .jfif extension. JFIF is the 1992 file layout most JPEG photos use internally; Windows and some browsers save downloaded images with the .jfif extension.
How do I open a JFIF file?
Most photo viewers open it, and renaming the file from .jfif to .jpg is often enough on its own.
How do I convert JFIF to another format?
Pick the target on this page, or open the Image Converter, drop the JFIF file and choose a format. It converts in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.