Convert HEIC to JPG on Mac: Complete Guide 2025

Unlike Windows users, Mac users have native support for HEIC files thanks to macOS integration with Apple's ecosystem. However, you may still need to convert HEIC to JPG for compatibility with other platforms, sharing, or specific applications. Here are the best methods for Mac users.

Method 1: Using Preview (Built-in Mac App)

Best for Mac Users

Preview is the fastest native solution for Mac users. It's already installed on your Mac and provides excellent conversion quality with no additional software needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Open your HEIC image in Preview (double-click the file)
Go to File > Export (or press Shift+Cmd+E)
In the export dialog, change Format from HEIF to JPEG
Adjust the Quality slider if needed (higher = better quality, larger file)
Choose your destination folder and filename
Click Save to convert your HEIC to JPG

Method 2: Batch Convert with Automator

For converting multiple HEIC files at once, macOS Automator provides a powerful built-in solution that can process dozens of files simultaneously.

Creating an Automator Workflow:

Open Automator (found in Applications folder)
Choose "Quick Action" as your document type
Set workflow receives "image files" in "Finder"
Add "Change Type of Images" action from the Photos library
Set the format to JPEG
Save your workflow (e.g., "Convert to JPG")
Right-click HEIC files in Finder and select your workflow

Method 3: Online Converter (Universal Solution)

Works Across All Platforms

Our free online HEIC to JPG converter works perfectly on Mac and provides additional features like batch processing and quality control.

Benefits for Mac Users:

No software installation required
Convert up to 20 files simultaneously
Multiple output formats (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Quality and resizing options

Method 4: Third-Party Mac Applications

Several Mac applications specialize in image conversion and offer advanced features beyond basic conversion.

Popular Mac HEIC Converters:

Image2icon: Comprehensive image conversion with batch processing
HEIC Converter: Simple, dedicated HEIC conversion app
GraphicConverter: Professional image editing with conversion features
Permute: Media conversion app that handles HEIC files

macOS Version Compatibility

HEIC Support by macOS Version

• macOS High Sierra (10.13) and later: Full HEIC support
• macOS Monterey/Ventura/Sonoma: Enhanced HEIC handling
• Older macOS versions: May need third-party tools

iPhone to Mac Transfer Tips

When transferring photos from iPhone to Mac, you can control whether files remain in HEIC format or convert automatically:

AirDrop Settings:

• AirDrop transfers maintain HEIC format by default
• Use "Share" > "Options" to choose JPG conversion during transfer
• Photos app can automatically convert during export

Quality and File Size Considerations

When converting HEIC to JPG on Mac, understanding quality settings helps optimize your results:

Quality Guidelines

• High Quality (90-100%): Best for printing, larger file sizes
• Medium Quality (70-89%): Good balance for most uses
• Lower Quality (50-69%): Smaller files, suitable for web use

Convert HEIC to JPG on Mac: Complete Guide