ForgeConvert Format Selector Guide
The From selector describes the real source encoding. The To selector describes the file ForgeConvert will create. Pick both from evidence and destination requirements.
Selector workflow
- Identify the source or choose the type reported by ForgeConvert.
- Select From.
- Choose an output that preserves required properties.
- Upload up to 20 matching files.
- Resolve any mismatch before conversion.
- Convert and inspect the results.
Directional rules
JPG, PNG, WebP, GIF, TIFF, AVIF, BMP, ICO, and TGA are current inputs and outputs. SVG and HEIC are input-only. The same source and output cannot be selected. Animation, multiple pages, and sequences are rejected.
Swap and mismatch behavior
The arrow button exchanges formats only when the reverse direction exists. After file selection, content-based detection can warn that the selected source is wrong and offer a source correction without uploading. Do not rename a file to silence the warning.
Property warnings
| Choice | Check |
|---|---|
| To JPEG | Transparency becomes opaque |
| To BMP | Current output removes alpha and can be large |
| To GIF | Static palette output only |
| From SVG | Restricted static document is rasterized |
| From HEIC | Primary still only; metadata not retained |
Examples
Use JPG to PNG for a PNG-only receiver, not as a quality upgrade. Use SVG to PNG for raster delivery while retaining the trusted SVG master. Use HEIC to JPG for a compatibility copy while preserving the HEIC original.
Output review
After conversion, compare dimensions, orientation, alpha, file size, and visible detail. Open the result in the actual destination. Keep the download until it passes and preserve the source regardless of success.
Choose the output from the receiving requirement
| Requirement | Selection approach | Verification |
|---|---|---|
| Broad photo compatibility | Choose an accepted photo-oriented output such as JPEG when alpha is unnecessary. | Open it in the exact application and inspect detail. |
| Transparent raster delivery | Choose an output that supports alpha, such as PNG, WebP, or AVIF where the receiver accepts it. | Test edges on light and dark backgrounds. |
| Legacy application | Use the format explicitly documented or proven by a small trial. | Confirm import, orientation, dimensions, and color. |
| Website delivery | Compare supported outputs rather than assuming the newest format wins. | Measure real bytes and test browser fallbacks. |
Batch workflow
Use one source format per batch. Before converting many files, test the hardest example: the largest dimensions, most delicate transparency, finest text, or strongest gradient. If a mixed selection triggers a mismatch, separate it by detected type rather than renaming files. Review at least the first and last result and retain the sources until every destination accepts the batch.
What the selector does not promise
The selector chooses an encoding route; it does not remove backgrounds, resize dimensions, restore missing detail, preserve unsupported animation or pages, or guarantee a smaller file. A successful download confirms that an output was created under current service limits. Fitness for a design, archive, print job, or third-party application still requires user verification.
Common selection errors
- Choosing From from the filename without checking the detected type.
- Selecting JPEG for an asset that needs alpha.
- Expecting SVG or HEIC output when those formats are input-only.
- Using GIF output for an animation-preserving workflow.
- Assuming conversion reduces dimensions or file size.