Image Compressor vs. Image Resizer
Shrinking file size vs. shrinking pixel dimensions — two different problems.
Image Tools
These solve different problems that are easy to conflate. Image Compressor reduces file size while keeping the image's pixel dimensions the same, mainly by adjusting compression quality. Image Resizer changes the actual width/height in pixels — which usually reduces file size too, but that's a side effect, not the point.
Image Compressor
Best for
- Reducing upload/page-weight size without changing how large the image displays
- Optimizing an already correctly-sized image for the web
Trade-offs
- Doesn't help if the image's pixel dimensions themselves are the problem (e.g. a 6000px photo displayed at 400px)
Image Resizer
Best for
- Fitting an image to specific display dimensions (thumbnails, avatars, banners)
- Bringing an oversized photo down to a sensible resolution before it's even compressed
Trade-offs
- Changes the image's actual dimensions — not what you want if you need the original size preserved
| Dimension | Image Compressor | Image Resizer |
|---|---|---|
| Changes | Compression/quality | Pixel width and height |
| Typical use | Web performance optimization | Fitting a display size or thumbnail |
Verdict
If the image displays at the right size but the file is heavy, compress it. If the image itself is far larger (in pixels) than it needs to be, resize it first — then compress the result for the best of both.