How to compress an image to 20KB
- Choose your image. Tap the upload box or drag photos onto it. JPG, PNG, WebP and iPhone HEIC files all work, and you can add several at once.
- Check the target. It's already set to 20KB. If your form lists exact pixel dimensions, enter the width in “Max width.”
- Compress. The tool automatically tests quality levels and keeps the sharpest version that fits under 20KB. It only shrinks the dimensions if quality alone isn't enough.
- Download. Each result shows the new file size, dimensions, and quality. Click Download to save it.
When you need a 20KB image
- Exam and job application photos. Many government job, exam, and admission portals ask for a passport-style photo under 20KB.
- Signature scans. Signature uploads often allow up to 20KB, sometimes with a minimum size too.
- Profile pictures on older systems. Legacy portals and forums frequently cap avatars around 20KB.
Requirements vary between websites and change over time, so always check the official instructions for the exact file size, dimensions, and format.
Best dimensions for a 20KB image
| Image type | Typical dimensions | Expected quality at 20KB |
|---|---|---|
| Passport-style photo | 200×230 to 350×450 px | Clear face, good for forms |
| Signature | 140×60 to 350×150 px | Sharp |
| Square avatar | 200×200 to 300×300 px | Good |
File size depends on both pixel dimensions and detail. A simple photo with a plain background compresses much further than a busy scene with lots of texture.
Tips for the best quality at 20KB
- Always check the official notice for the exact size and dimensions — requirements differ between forms and change over time.
- Use a plain, light background and crop to head and shoulders before compressing.
- If the form lists dimensions (for example 200×230 px), enter that width in “Max width” so the result matches.
- Save the result with a simple file name like photo.jpg — some portals reject long names or special characters.
Why the result is slightly under 20KB
Websites count a kilobyte as either 1,000 or 1,024 bytes. This tool keeps every file under 20,000 bytes, so it passes a 20KB limit either way.
Frequently asked questions
Will a 20KB photo be accepted on exam and job portals?
The tool makes sure the file is under 20KB. Portals may also require specific dimensions, a JPG format, or a plain background, so check the official instructions and set the width if one is listed.
What if the form needs a photo between 10KB and 20KB?
The tool aims for the highest quality that fits under 20KB, so results usually land close to 20KB — inside a 10–20KB range. If your result is very small, start from a larger, clearer original photo.
Are my images uploaded to a server?
No. Compression happens entirely in your web browser using your device. Your images never leave your computer or phone.
Does it work on my phone?
Yes. It works in modern mobile browsers on iPhone and Android. Tap the upload box, pick a photo from your gallery, and download the result.
What format is the compressed image?
The result is a JPG (JPEG) file, the format almost every form and website accepts. Transparent areas become white.
How do I compress an image to 20KB on my phone?
Open this page in your phone's browser, tap the upload box, choose a photo from your gallery, and tap “Compress to 20KB.” Then tap Download to save the smaller file.