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Compressed Image Larger Than the Original: What to Adjust

Understand quality settings versus file size, compare JPG and WebP, and adjust the long side while checking the final image.

By FileMyLove1 min read

If compression produces a larger file, compare format, pixel dimensions and actual file size before trying again. Lowering a quality control does not mean every output will be smaller than every source.

Quality is not a file-size percentage

MDN explains that canvas export quality applies to formats supporting lossy compression, including JPEG and WebP. It is an encoding setting, not an instruction to produce a particular number of kilobytes.

FileMyLove decodes and re-encodes the image using your selections. Compare the actual result with the original. An 80% setting promises neither a file at 80% of its old size nor an 80% saving.

Change one setting at a time

Result Our suggested experiment
Large file with more quality than needed Lower quality gradually and inspect
Excessive pixel dimensions Reduce the long side to the recipient's requirements
Visible damage but still too large Return to the original and try another supported format
Original is smaller and already suitable Keep the original rather than replacing it

These are selection experiments, not a claim that one format is smallest for every image.

Try the compressor

  1. Keep the original and read the destination's limits.
  2. Open Compress image, choosing JPG or WebP supported by the recipient.
  3. Try quality first, then a shorter long side if needed.
  4. Download, compare KB/MB and inspect small text or object edges at the intended viewing size.
  5. Select a copy that meets both size and quality requirements, not merely the smallest file.

The compressor offers original size and long-side limits of 2560, 1920 and 1280 pixels. For another long-side value, use Resize image.

Preserve the properties you need

For a transparent background, do not choose JPG without checking the outcome. Read PNG, JPG and transparency before switching. For screenshots with small lettering, see JPG text artifacts.

Run each experiment from the same original for a fair comparison, then inspect the actual delivery file before discarding test copies.