How to Disable WebP in Chrome: Complete Guide 2025
Published on August 23, 2025 | Updated: August 23, 2025 | Reading time: 10 minutes
Quick Summary: While WebP offers many benefits, some users prefer to disable it. This guide explains why you might want to disable WebP in Chrome and provides the most effective method using a browser extension to force websites to serve JPG or PNG images instead.
WebP is a modern image format that provides superior compression and quality compared to older formats like JPG and PNG. However, some users may want to disable it for various reasons:
Compatibility Issues: You may need to use images with software that doesn't support WebP.
Workflow Preferences: Your workflow may be built around JPG and PNG formats.
Personal Preference: You may simply prefer to work with traditional image formats.
The Solution: Use a Browser Extension
The most effective way to disable WebP in Chrome is to use a browser extension that modifies the `Accept` header sent by your browser. This tricks websites into thinking your browser doesn't support WebP, forcing them to serve the original JPG or PNG images instead.
Recommended Extension: "Stop WebP"
A popular and effective extension for this purpose is "Stop WebP". It's a simple, lightweight extension that does one thing well: it stops websites from serving you WebP images.
How to Install and Use the Extension
1Go to the Chrome Web Store: Open Chrome and navigate to the Chrome Web Store.
2Search for "Stop WebP": Use the search bar to find the "Stop WebP" extension.
3Add to Chrome: Click the "Add to Chrome" button to install the extension.
4Enable the Extension: Once installed, the extension will be active by default. You can manage it by clicking the puzzle piece icon in your Chrome toolbar.
Alternatives to Disabling WebP
Instead of disabling WebP entirely, you can use other methods to get JPG or PNG files when you need them:
Online Converters: Use a free online tool like OpenWebPFile.online to convert WebP files to JPG or PNG.
Copy and Paste: Copy the WebP image from Chrome and paste it into an image editor, then save it as JPG or PNG.
Developer Tools: Use Chrome's Developer Tools to find the original JPG or PNG version of the image.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will disabling WebP slow down my browsing?
Yes, it can. WebP images are smaller than JPG and PNG files, so disabling WebP will force you to download larger images, which can slow down page load times.
Is it safe to use extensions to disable WebP?
Generally, yes. However, you should always be cautious when installing browser extensions. Stick to well-reviewed extensions from the official Chrome Web Store.
Can I disable WebP in other browsers?
Yes, similar extensions are available for other browsers like Firefox and Edge.
Final Takeaway: While disabling WebP is possible with a browser extension, it's often more practical to use a converter when you need a JPG or PNG file. This allows you to enjoy the speed benefits of WebP while still having access to other formats when needed.
Need to Convert a WebP File?
Use our free online tools for quick and easy conversions: