Why Convert HEIC to PNG on Windows?
Windows doesn't natively support HEIC files from iPhones and iPads, leaving millions of users unable to view or share their photos. Converting HEIC to PNG solves this compatibility issue while preserving perfect image quality through lossless compression.
PNG is the ideal choice for Windows users because it's universally supported, maintains transparency, and works seamlessly across all Windows applications, web browsers, and social media platforms. Unlike JPG, PNG conversion preserves every pixel of your original HEIC image without any quality loss.
Table of Contents
Method 1: Online HEIC to PNG Converter (Recommended)
The fastest and most reliable way to convert HEIC to PNG on Windows is using our online converter. No software installation required, works on any Windows version, and converts files locally in your browser for maximum privacy.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit our HEIC to PNG converter
- Drag and drop your HEIC files or click "Choose HEIC Files"
- Ensure PNG is selected as output format (default setting)
- Click convert and download your PNG files instantly
Why This Method Works Best:
- 100% Free: No hidden costs or premium features required
- No Installation: Works instantly in any web browser
- Privacy Protected: All conversion happens locally on your device
- Batch Processing: Convert multiple HEIC files to PNG simultaneously
- Perfect Quality: Lossless PNG conversion preserves every pixel
- Universal Compatibility: Works on Windows 11, 10, and older versions
Method 2: Microsoft HEIF Extensions
Microsoft provides official extensions to view HEIC files in Windows Photos app. However, this method only allows viewing and basic editing - you'll still need to export to PNG manually for each file.
Installation Steps:
- Open Microsoft Store on your Windows computer
- Search for "HEIF Image Extensions" and install (free)
- Install "HEVC Video Extensions" ($0.99 or free from device manufacturer)
- Restart Windows Photos app to enable HEIC support
Converting HEIC to PNG with Photos App:
- Open your HEIC file in Windows Photos app
- Click the three dots menu (⋯) in the top right
- Select "Save as" or "Export"
- Choose PNG format and save location
- Repeat for each HEIC file individually
Limitations of This Method:
- Hidden costs: HEVC extension often costs $0.99
- No batch conversion: Must convert each file individually
- Time-consuming: Inefficient for multiple files
- Reliability issues: Extensions sometimes fail to work properly
Method 3: Third-Party Desktop Software
Several desktop applications can convert HEIC to PNG on Windows. While these offer more features, they require installation and setup time.
Popular Desktop Software Options:
- IrfanView: Free image viewer with batch conversion capabilities
- XnConvert: Dedicated batch image converter with HEIC support
- CopyTrans HEIC: Specialized HEIC converter for Windows
- Adobe Photoshop: Professional editing with HEIC to PNG export
Example: Using IrfanView for HEIC to PNG:
- Download and install IrfanView + Plugins package
- Open IrfanView and press "B" for batch conversion
- Set input folder with HEIC files
- Select PNG as output format
- Choose output folder and click "Start Batch"
Limitations of Desktop Software:
- Installation required: Takes up disk space and system resources
- Learning curve: Complex interfaces for simple tasks
- Compatibility issues: May not work on all Windows versions
- Potential metadata loss: Some tools don't preserve EXIF data
Batch HEIC to PNG Conversion on Windows
When you have dozens or hundreds of HEIC files to convert to PNG, batch processing becomes essential. Here's how to efficiently convert multiple HEIC files to PNG on Windows:
Best Method: Online Batch Converter
Select Multiple Files
Drag entire folders or select up to 100 HEIC files
Auto Convert to PNG
All files convert simultaneously with progress tracking
Download ZIP
Get all PNG files in one convenient ZIP archive
Batch Conversion Tips:
- • Process files in batches of 20-50 for optimal performance
- • Ensure stable internet connection for large batches
- • Close unnecessary browser tabs to free up memory
- • PNG files will be 2-5x larger than original HEIC files
HEIC to PNG Conversion Methods Comparison
| Method | Cost | Ease of Use | Batch Efficiency | Privacy | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online HEIC to PNG Converter | Free | Very Easy | Excellent | Maximum | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Microsoft HEIF Extensions | $0.99 | Moderate | Poor | High | ⭐⭐ |
| Desktop Software | Free | Complex | Good | High | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Best Choice for HEIC to PNG Conversion: Our online converter offers the perfect balance of simplicity, speed, and security. With no installation required, completely free usage, and excellent batch processing capabilities, it's the ideal solution for Windows users who need reliable HEIC to PNG conversion in 2025.