How do I View WebP Files on Windows

With the abundance of different image formats available, sometimes it can be challenging to view certain types of files on specific operating systems.
One such format is WebP, which has gained popularity due to its efficient compression and high-quality images.

Check the WebP version (.webp) of this file ↑

WebP is an image format developed by Google that offers both lossless and lossy compression, resulting in smaller file sizes without compromising image quality.

While WebP files are widely supported by modern web browsers, but they are not natively supported by Windows File Explorer (Win+E) or the default image viewer on Windows, Microsoft Photos.

However, there are several methods you can use to overcome this limitation.

Use Web Browsers

The easiest way to view WebP files on Windows is by opening them in a web browser.

Browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge have built-in support for WebP: double-click on a WebP file, and it will open in your default browser, allowing you to view it effortlessly.

Image Viewer Software

To view WebP files directly on your computer without relying on a web browser, you can use specialized image viewer software. There are various third-party applications available that offer support for WebP files.

Here are a few options:

IrfanView: is a lightweight and versatile image viewer that supports a wide range of formats, including WebP.

Download IrfanView

XnView: is another image viewer that supports an extensive range of formats, including WebP. It provides a user-friendly interface and additional features like batch conversion and editing capabilities.

You can download XnView and install it on your Windows system.

nomacs: a free, open-source image viewer that supports multiple platforms and can display all common image formats, including RAW, PSD, and WebP.

Download nomacs

Paint.NET: although primarily known as an image editing software, Paint.NET can also be used as a viewer for WebP files. This free software offers a range of editing features and can handle various image formats, including WebP.

Download Paint.NET

Install WebP Codec

Another option to view WebP files on Windows is by installing a WebP codec, which adds support for the format to your system's default image viewer.

Download WebP Codec for Windows - available for Free!

By installing the codec, you'll be able to open WebP files using Windows File Explorer or any other image viewer software you prefer.