Compress to a target size
The target-size tool evaluates separate quality candidates and returns the strongest candidate that stays below the requested limit. It does not label an oversized file as successful or silently reduce image dimensions.
Steps
- 1Choose the image and output
Add a compatible source, then choose JPG or WebP according to the destination and any transparency requirements.
- 2Set the maximum size
Enter the file-size ceiling and let the bounded search encode independent candidates rather than repeatedly degrading one result.
- 3Read the outcome honestly
Download a qualifying candidate or review the smallest attempted result and explanation when the original dimensions cannot meet the target.
Key decisions
Why is the result below rather than exactly on the target?
Encoding quality does not map to an exact byte count. The search selects a valid candidate below the ceiling rather than padding or misreporting the result.
Why is PNG not a target output?
This workflow depends on a predictable lossy quality control. PNG does not provide the same bounded quality search for a specific file-size ceiling.
Before you download
Know the limits
- A very small target can be impossible while preserving the original dimensions.
- JPG cannot preserve transparent pixels, so the output choice must be checked before processing a transparent source.
Verify the copy
Common questions
Does the tool shrink dimensions without telling me?
No. The search changes encoding quality while retaining dimensions and explains when that approach cannot satisfy the limit.
Should I always choose the smallest candidate?
No. Choose a result that satisfies the actual ceiling while retaining enough visual quality for its destination.