Honest comparison · Updated 2026-05-16
QuickPix vs Squoosh
Squoosh is Google's open-source web-based image compressor that runs entirely client-side in your browser. QuickPix is a native Mac app with similar privacy guarantees but a different workflow. Here's how they actually compare.
Dimension-by-dimension
| Dimension | QuickPix | Squoosh | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where compression happens | Native Mac app, fully local. | Runs entirely in the browser (no upload). Local but JavaScript-based. | |
| Format range | 28+ formats including HEIC. | MozJPEG, WebP, AVIF, OxiPNG, JPEG XL. Strong on modern formats but no HEIC. | |
| Batch processing | Drag a folder, all images compressed. | One image at a time. No batch mode. | |
| Codec experimentation | Preset modes; custom quality slider. | Granular per-codec controls with live A/B preview. | |
| Folder watching | Pro feature — auto-compress new files. | Not supported. | |
| Workflow integration on Mac | Drag to any Mac app, paste from clipboard, system integration. | Browser — manual download per file. | |
| Cost | Free + one-time Pro. | Free, open source. |
QuickPix advantage · Squoosh advantage · roughly equal
Where QuickPix wins
- Batch processing. Squoosh handles one image at a time. If you have 100 product photos, that's 100 manual operations.
- Folder watching (Pro). Auto-compress as new images arrive.
- HEIC support. Squoosh doesn't compress HEIC.
- Mac-native workflow — paste, drag, system integration.
Where Squoosh wins
- Best codec experimentation tool. Squoosh's live A/B preview with granular codec controls is unmatched for testing what specific settings do.
- Open source and free forever. No purchase needed at any point.
Pick QuickPix if…
You compress images in volume (batches, folders), need HEIC, and want it integrated into your Mac workflow.
See QuickPixPick Squoosh if…
You compress occasionally, want to experiment with codec settings, and like the open-source approach.
Visit Squoosh siteSquoosh is the best place to learn what image codecs actually do. QuickPix is the daily driver for shipping. Most designers I know use both.
Frequently asked questions
What's the main difference between QuickPix and Squoosh?+
Squoosh is Google's open-source web-based image compressor that runs entirely client-side in your browser. QuickPix is a native Mac app with similar privacy guarantees but a different workflow. Here's how they actually compare.
Should I choose QuickPix or Squoosh?+
Pick QuickPix if: You compress images in volume (batches, folders), need HEIC, and want it integrated into your Mac workflow. Pick Squoosh if: You compress occasionally, want to experiment with codec settings, and like the open-source approach.
What can QuickPix do that Squoosh can't?+
Batch processing. Squoosh handles one image at a time. If you have 100 product photos, that's 100 manual operations. Folder watching (Pro). Auto-compress as new images arrive. HEIC support. Squoosh doesn't compress HEIC.
Where does Squoosh win over QuickPix?+
Best codec experimentation tool. Squoosh's live A/B preview with granular codec controls is unmatched for testing what specific settings do. Open source and free forever. No purchase needed at any point.
How much does QuickPix cost compared to Squoosh?+
QuickPix: Free + one-time Pro. Squoosh: Free, open source.