When working with files online, you likely have come across the file formats PDF and JPG before.
Working in both file formats requires specialized knowledge as each is distinctly different. However, in some situations, you may need a PDF to be a JPG or vice versa. This is why it’s important to learn everything about what exactly a PDF and JPG are, including how to convert one into the other.
What is a PDF File?
Many people often assume that PDF doesn’t actually stand for anything, but it actually does indeed. PDF stands for ‘Portable Document Format’ and is a file format which can be used to display a wide range of documents on a person’s computer. These documents can range from images, presentations, and so much more.
Compared to a JPG file, a PDF is far more commonly seen as it is a universal file format, which means it displays the same on any device it is viewed on. Due to this, it is also the ideal file format for printing items as it keeps each page together.
What is a JPG File?
One the other hand, a JPG file, or ‘Joint Photographic Experts Group’ file, is a specialty file format designed for images. Given that it is designed for displaying images, it is most often used when sharing this type of file through social media, email, or through the web.
JPG files are most notable for their ability to compress information down to incredibly small levels while still retaining a high level of detail.
The 3 Primary Differences Between a JPG and a PDF
Beyond the fact that a JPG is an image file, whereas a PDF can be an image file or a number of other types, there are three primary differences between the two file types that are important to be aware of as you begin to work with either type of file:
Compressibility
While a JPG can certainly be compressed down to a small size, typically smaller than a PDF, it uses something known as ‘lossy compression’. This refers to the fact that as a JPG continues to be compressed down in size, it will slowly start to lose image quality. On the other hand, a PDF can be compressed to a small level, but it retains a higher image quality which is why you cannot shrink it as much as a JPG.
Storage
Between the two file formats, a JPG may be preferable for file storage due to the fact that it can shrink down further than a PDF. However, a PDF typically has better retention in the long run than a JPG, which is why a PDF might be the preferable option for those with sensitive files. Both file types can be uploaded and shared through the cloud, which means either can be transferred between mobile devices or computers.
Edibility
This is perhaps the biggest difference between a JPG and a PDF. A JPG is compressed down to a single layer which means editing needs to occur to the entire image if it is going to be changed. However, a PDF preserves different layers of content if they exist, meaning it can be edited at different parts. This is particularly helpful when trying to edit an image in photoshop, or even when just trying to crop certain parts of a file.
Converting a PDF to a JPG 101
Given that a PDF can be an image just as a JPG can be, some people often find themselves accidentally using the wrong file format than they intended. As a result, they may seek a way to convert PDF to JPG to rectify this problem.
Most computers will not be able to convert a PDF to a JPG on their own without some sort of application installed. Therefore, the best way to easily convert a PDF file to a JPG is to use an online converter which can complete the task in as little as five seconds.
The Bottom Line
Regardless of whether you are young or old, some things online will never be completely simple. PDFs and JPGs are exactly one of these things, as working within these file formats can be particularly confusing, especially when you need the format you’re working in to be the other.
By using the above breakdown of the two file types, including the differences and how to convert one to the other, a person can work more efficiently with both types.
