How I Learned to Convert AVIF to PNG Without Losing My Sanity

I still remember the first time I downloaded a batch of images from a design project, only to realize they were all in AVIF format. At first, I thought, “Okay, no big deal.” But then, when I tried opening them in some older software, the files just wouldn’t load properly. Even my go-to editor refused to play nice with them. That was the moment I knew I had to figure out how to convert AVIF to PNG without ruining the quality.

For someone who deals with image formats, transparency, compatibility, and compression on a daily basis, this wasn’t just an inconvenience it was a real workflow blocker. So, I dove deep into the world of conversion tools, lossless options, and batch-processing software until I found a setup that actually worked.

Why Converting AVIF to PNG Became a Game-Changer

At first, I didn’t even understand why anyone would bother switching from PNG to AVIF in the first place. But once I learned that AVIF uses advanced compression (thanks to the AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media), it started to make sense. Smaller file sizes, faster web performance, and even HDR visuals with better contrast who wouldn’t want that?

The problem is, not all devices, browsers, and platforms are ready for it yet. That’s where PNG still shines. With its lossless quality, universal compatibility, and pixel-perfect clarity for things like logos, UI elements, and graphics with transparency, PNG is still my safety net.

The First Tools I Tried (and Which Ones Actually Worked)

Like anyone else, my first thought was to search for an online converter. I tested out Convertio, Ezgif, and CloudConvert, and honestly, they were lifesavers when I needed a quick one-off conversion without installing anything. Just drag, drop, and download it doesn’t get easier than that.

But when I needed to handle batch image conversion, that’s where desktop applications like GIMP and XnConvert came into play. With GIMP, it was as simple as:

• Open the AVIF file
• Go to File > Export As
• Choose PNG as the output format
• Click Export

Meanwhile, XnConvert became my go-to for batch conversions. Just load up all the AVIF files, set the output format, adjust the compression levels if needed, and hit Convert. Done.

For more advanced use, I even experimented with command-line tools like ImageMagick and FFmpeg. The flexibility is insane you can automate conversions, process multiple files in a directory, and even run commands like:

mogrify -format png *.avif

That single line saved me hours.

Keeping Image Quality Intact

The biggest concern I had was quality. I didn’t want my images to end up with weird compression artifacts or lose detail during the process. So here’s what I learned:

• Use lossless conversion whenever possible
• Avoid recompression switching from AVIF to PNG is already enough of a change
• Adjust PNG settings carefully; lower compression keeps more fidelity, while higher compression sacrifices it for a smaller file size
• Stick with trusted software like ImageMagick or FFmpeg. Not every tool handles AVIF well

Batch Conversion Saved My Workflow

Once I realized I could automate batch processing with tools like XnConvert or ImageMagick, things really clicked. No more dragging files one by one, no more wasting time. Just point the software at a folder full of AVIF images, and within seconds, I’d have all the PNGs I needed.

This consistency meant I could keep my projects moving forward without second-guessing whether the converted files would behave in different browsers or editors.

When I Stick With AVIF vs. When I Use PNG

Over time, I’ve found a balance:

• I use AVIF for web performance when I know my audience is tech-savvy and using modern browsers
• I switch to PNG for editing, archiving, and universal compatibility, especially when transparency support is critical
• If I need lossless quality with zero compromises, PNG wins every time

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever been stuck with an AVIF file and didn’t know how to handle it, I’ve been there too. The good news is, whether you’re using online converters, desktop applications, or command-line tools, the process of converting to PNG doesn’t have to be painful.

What surprised me most is how much of this comes down to choosing the right tool for the right job. Some people just need a quick browser extension to right-click and save, while others (like me) rely on automation and batch conversion for day-to-day work.

At the end of the day, AVIF is incredible for compression and web performance, but PNG still holds its ground with compatibility, transparency, and consistency. Knowing when to use each one and how to move between them has saved me more than once.