AVIF vs HEIC 2026: 어느 포맷이 나은가? [완전 비교]

Format Overview

AVIF and HEIC represent two modern approaches to image compression, each with distinct origins and strengths.

HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) and uses HEVC (H.265) codec for compression. It became widely known through Apple's adoption in iOS 11 as the default photo format.

AVIF emerged from the Alliance for Open Media, using the royalty-free AV1 codec. It was designed specifically to be a web-first, open-standard alternative to proprietary formats like HEIC.

Compression Comparison

Both formats offer excellent compression, but there are important differences.

Platform Support

The support landscape differs significantly between these formats.

• AVIF Web Support: Chrome, Firefox, Safari 16+, Edge—approximately 93% of global browser users.
• HEIC Web Support: Safari only—approximately 18% of global browser users.
• AVIF Native Apps: Growing support across platforms, excellent in modern applications.
• HEIC Native Apps: Excellent on Apple devices, limited elsewhere without additional software.

Use Case Recommendations

Choose the right format based on your specific needs.

• Web Publishing: Use AVIF. Broader support, royalty-free, excellent compression.
• iOS Photography: HEIC works well within Apple ecosystem. Convert to AVIF for web sharing.
• Cross-platform Sharing: Convert HEIC to AVIF or JPEG for maximum compatibility.
• Professional Archives: Consider original format plus AVIF for web-optimized versions.