How to Convert PNG to JPG Using SIPS on macOS

If you’re a macOS user, converting image files from PNG to JPG can be done quickly using a built-in tool called SIPS (Scriptable Image Processing System). SIPS is a command-line utility that allows you to automate image conversions, resize images, and adjust image properties without needing third-party software.

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What is SIPS?

SIPS, or Scriptable Image Processing System, is a native macOS command-line tool that allows users to manipulate images through terminal commands. It’s lightweight, fast, and does not require the installation of any external software. You can convert images, resize them, change file formats, and even add metadata.

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Why Convert PNG to JPG?

Before diving into the process, you might wonder why you would need to convert PNG to JPG. Here are some reasons:

• File Size Reduction: JPG files are typically smaller than PNG files, which helps reduce storage space.
• Web Optimization: JPGs are widely used on websites for faster page load times.
• Email and Sharing: Smaller file sizes are easier to attach and send via email or messaging apps.

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How to Convert PNG to JPG Using SIPS

Follow these simple steps to convert a PNG image to a JPG using the SIPS command:

Step 1: Open Terminal

1. Click on the Launchpad.
2. Search for Terminal and open it.

Step 2: Run the SIPS Command

Use the following command to convert your image from PNG to JPG. Replace input.png with the name of your PNG file and output.jpg with the name of the resulting JPG file.

sips -s format jpeg input.png --out output.jpg

Explanation of the Command:

• sips: Calls the SIPS tool.
• -s format jpeg: Specifies that the output format should be JPG.
• input.png: The source PNG file to be converted.
• --out output.jpg: The name and location of the output file.

Example: If your file is named example.png, you would run:

sips -s format jpeg example.png --out example.jpg

Once you press Enter, the PNG file will be converted to a JPG and saved as example.jpg in the same directory.

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Batch Conversion (Convert Multiple PNGs to JPGs)

If you have multiple PNG files to convert, you can batch convert them with a simple loop. Here’s an example command that converts all PNG files in a folder to JPGs:

for file in *.png; do 
  sips -s format jpeg "$file" --out "${file%.png}.jpg" 
done

Explanation of the Command:

• for file in *.png: Loops through all files with the .png extension.
• sips -s format jpeg: Converts each file from PNG to JPG.
• "${file%.png}.jpg": Names the new file by removing the .png extension and adding .jpg.

Pro Tip: Run this command inside the folder where your PNG files are stored.

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Advantages of Using SIPS

• No Third-Party Software: No need to install any additional tools or apps.
• Fast and Efficient: Converts images instantly with minimal resources.
• Batch Processing: Handles multiple images at once with a simple loop.

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Limitations of SIPS

• Limited Image Editing: It’s a basic tool for image format conversion and resizing, not for complex image editing.
• Command Line Use: Requires basic knowledge of using the Terminal.

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SIPS vs. Online Converters

Feature	SIPS	Online Converters
Privacy	Full privacy (local conversion)	Risk of data exposure
Speed	Instant conversion	Depends on file size
Batch Conversion	Yes, using loops	Limited or requires payment

If privacy, speed, and batch processing are important, SIPS is a better choice. For casual users who are not familiar with the command line, online converters might be more convenient but less secure.

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How to Verify Conversion

After converting your image, you can verify the file type using the file command in Terminal:

file output.jpg

This command will display the file type information, confirming that the image is now a JPEG.

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Conclusion

Converting a PNG to JPG using SIPS on macOS is a simple, fast, and secure method. This built-in tool requires no software downloads and supports batch processing for multiple files. If you frequently convert images and prioritize privacy, SIPS is an excellent option.

For users looking for a powerful cloud-based VPS to manage image processing tasks or automate SIPS-based workflows, consider SurferCloud VPS. With SurferCloud’s high-speed servers in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Germany, you can automate image processing tasks with ease.