How to compress an image
About us
English
How to compress an image
How to compress an image quickly in your browser using Evernote's free tool
or drag and drop a file
Supports images and PDFs (max 100MB)
By using the product, you agree to our Terms of Service and have read our Privacy Policy.
Trusted by Millions Worldwide
4.4
2,100+ reviews on G2
4.4
8,200+ reviews on Capterra
4.4
73,000+ reviews on App Store
248M
Registered Users
5B
Notes Created
2M
Notes Created Daily
Frequently Asked Questions
Compressing an image means reducing its file size by optimizing or removing data. Compression can be lossless, which preserves all original detail but reduces overhead, or lossy, which removes some visual information to achieve smaller files. The goal is to balance acceptable visual quality with reduced storage and faster transfer. Evernote's browser tools let you compress images so they upload and sync more quickly, which is useful for sharing notes and saving space in workflows.
Compressing images before sharing reduces upload and download times, lowers bandwidth use, and makes attachments easier to send in messages or include in notes. Smaller images load more quickly on web pages and mobile devices, improving the recipient's experience. Using Evernote's in-browser compression can streamline this process by shrinking files before you attach them to a note, making collaboration and distribution faster without needing separate desktop software.
Compress an image when file size affects storage, upload speed, or page load times. Typical scenarios include attaching images to notes, sharing photos via email or chat, publishing images on web pages, and archiving visual assets. If you need to preserve maximum detail for printing or detailed editing, minimize compression. For routine sharing and in-note use, moderate compression often provides a good balance between visual quality and smaller file size.
JPEG compression is usually lossy: it reduces file size by discarding some color and detail information that the human eye is less likely to notice. Higher compression yields smaller files but can introduce visible artifacts like blurring or blocking. Lower compression keeps more detail and results in larger files. Evernote's browser-based tools let you choose settings that help you balance image quality against size, making JPEGs easier to store and share within notes.
Yes, PNG images can be compressed. PNG commonly uses lossless compression, which reduces file size without removing visual detail, making it suitable for images with text, graphics, or transparency. Some PNG optimization techniques further streamline file structure and palette data to reduce size. For photographic images where smaller sizes are needed, converting to a compressed format like JPEG may be appropriate; Evernote's tools can help you choose formats and compression levels that meet your needs.
Compression does not necessarily change resolution; it primarily reduces file data. Lossy compression can degrade visible detail without altering pixel dimensions, while resizing changes resolution by adjusting pixel count. Many tools, including Evernote's browser utilities, offer options to both compress and resize images. If you need a smaller image file and fewer pixels, choose resizing plus compression. For retaining dimensions but lowering file size, apply compression settings that preserve resolution.
Batch compression typically involves selecting multiple files and applying the same compression settings to them in one operation. Many online tools, including Evernote's browser-based utilities, support drag-and-drop or multiple-file selection so you can process several images at once. The tool will apply consistent quality or size parameters to each file. Batch processing saves time when preparing photo sets for sharing, archiving, or adding to multiple notes.
The right format depends on the image content. For photographs and rich color images, a compressed JPEG often provides a smaller file with acceptable visual quality. For graphics, logos, or images needing sharp edges or transparency, PNG is commonly used, usually with lossless optimization. Some modern formats offer improved compression and features, but browser and platform support vary. Evernote helps you compress and preview images so you can choose the format that fits your web or sharing needs.
Yes. Browser-based tools let you compress images without installing software. Evernote provides an online compression option that operates directly in your browser: upload or drag files, select compression settings, and download or attach compressed images into notes. This approach is convenient for quick edits and when working across devices. Browser tools typically handle common formats like JPEG and PNG and offer simple controls for adjusting quality and size.
Reverting a compressed image depends on whether you retained the original file. Lossy compression discards some image data, so if you keep a backup of the original, you can restore it. Without an original, you cannot fully recover the discarded details. To preserve flexibility, save originals or export a copy before compressing. Evernote allows you to upload both originals and compressed versions to notes, helping you maintain access to the highest-quality files when needed.
Yes. Most compression tools offer controls for quality level, letting you favor smaller files or better visual fidelity. Adjusting quality affects how aggressively the tool removes detail or optimizes data. In Evernote's browser tool, you can choose settings that balance file size and appearance, preview results, and compare before saving. Testing different settings on a representative image helps determine the right compromise for your use case.
Evernote provides a free, browser-based tool for compressing images that integrates with note creation and sharing workflows. The tool lets you reduce file size, pick compression levels, and attach compressed images directly to notes. It’s designed for convenience so you can prepare images for faster syncing and easier sharing without switching apps. Because it runs in the browser, you can use it on many devices and operating systems.
To use Evernote's compression features in the browser, open the tool, upload or drag your image files, and select the compression settings that suit your needs. Preview the result if available, then download the compressed files or attach them to a note. The interface guides you through choosing quality or size preferences so you can quickly prepare images for sharing or storage. This workflow keeps images accessible inside Evernote for collaboration and reference.
Most online compression tools support common image formats such as JPEG, PNG, and GIF. Some tools also accept TIFF or WebP, but support varies by service and browser. Evernote focuses on widely used formats to ensure compatibility with notes and sharing features. If you work with a less common format, consider converting it to a standard type before compressing, or test the upload to confirm the tool accepts that file.
Compression processes may or may not remove metadata depending on tool settings. Some tools preserve EXIF and other metadata, while others strip it to reduce file size further. If retaining metadata like timestamps or camera information is important, check the tool's options before compressing and keep a copy of the original. Evernote's tools provide clear results, and you can verify whether metadata remains after compression by inspecting the file or saving the original alongside the compressed version.