How to open WebP files on Windows 10 & 11 without extra software?

The fastest method is dragging the WebP file into any modern web browser like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox. Additionally, the built-in Microsoft Paint app natively opens WebP.

Where to get the WebP codec for Windows 10 / 11 thumbnails?

Install the free 'WebP Image Extensions' directly from the Microsoft Store. It enables thumbnail previews and native opening in Windows Photos and File Explorer.

How to open WebP in older applications like MS Office or Photoshop?

Convert the WebP file into universal PNG or JPG formats using our free offline-first converter tool.

How to Open WebP on Windows 10 & 11 — Codecs, Viewers & Conversion

The WebP format, developed by Google, provides excellent image compression without noticeable quality degradation. However, users on Windows 10 and Windows 11 frequently encounter difficulties opening these pictures using legacy photo viewers.

In this comprehensive guide, we cover every working method to open WebP files, install the right WebP codec for Windows 10 and 11, and instantly convert files to universal formats like PNG or JPG right here.

⚡ Try opening and converting your WebP right here:

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Drag and drop your .webp file here, or click to select

Best Ways to Open WebP Files on Windows 10 & 11

1. Any Modern Web Browser (No Installation Needed)

The quickest trick to view any WebP image is to drag and drop it into an open window of Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Opera, or Firefox. Modern browsers feature native hardware-accelerated WebP decoding.

2. Official WebP Codec & Extensions for Windows 10/11

To enable File Explorer thumbnails and native viewing in the default Windows Photos app, you need the official codec pack:

Open the Microsoft Store.
Search for and install «WebP Image Extensions» published by Microsoft.
Once installed, Windows Explorer immediately starts generating thumbnails for .webp images and opens them on double-click.

3. Built-in Windows Paint

Paint on Windows 10 & 11 opens and edits WebP images without installing third-party codecs. Just launch Paint, press Ctrl + O, and select your file.

4. Convert WebP to PNG or JPG (Universal Solution)

If you plan to import images into Microsoft Office, Photoshop, or send them to users on older devices, converting to PNG is the most seamless approach.

Need to batch convert WebP files without uploading them to cloud servers?

Convert WebP to PNG →All Image Converters →

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why doesn't Windows Explorer show WebP thumbnails?

Windows requires the official "WebP Image Extensions" from Microsoft Store to render thumbnail previews in folders.

Is WebP better than PNG or JPG?

WebP files are typically 25–35% smaller than comparable PNGs and JPGs with identical visual quality.

How to Open WebP on Windows 10 & 11 — Codecs & Best Methods