Squarespace WebP Image Conversion for Site Speed
Squarespace automatically converts your uploaded images to WebP format behind the scenes. This happens when you upload JPEG or PNG files, and it's designed to make your site load faster without you having to do anything.
WebP is Google's modern image format that creates much smaller file sizes than traditional formats while keeping the same visual quality. The clever bit is that Squarespace keeps your original images as backups, so older browsers that don't support WebP still get the JPEG or PNG versions.
### TL;DR:
- Squarespace automatically converts JPEG and PNG uploads to WebP format
- Original images are kept as fallbacks for browsers that don't support WebP
- This reduces file sizes and improves page loading speed
- The conversion happens automatically with no setup required
- Works on all Squarespace 7.1 sites (this feature isn't available on legacy 7.0 sites)
How WebP Conversion Works on Squarespace
When you upload an image to your Squarespace site, the platform creates a WebP version alongside your original file. Modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge will automatically receive the smaller WebP version, while older browsers get served the original format.
This dual approach means you get the best of both worlds. Your site loads faster for most visitors, but you don't lose compatibility with older technology. The conversion maintains image quality while often reducing file sizes by 25-50% compared to JPEG files.
The process is completely transparent. You won't see WebP files in your asset library or notice any difference in how you manage images. Squarespace handles everything server-side.
What This Means for Site Performance
Smaller image files mean faster loading times, which directly impacts your site's performance scores and user experience. Page speed is also a ranking factor for search engines, so this automatic optimization can help with SEO too.
The bandwidth savings can be significant if you have an image-heavy site. This is particularly noticeable on mobile connections where every kilobyte counts. Visitors on slower connections will see a real difference in how quickly your pages load.
Since the conversion happens automatically, you can upload high-quality images without worrying about manually optimizing each one for web use. Squarespace takes care of the technical side while you focus on your content.
### FAQs
Can I turn off WebP conversion on Squarespace?
No, there's no option to disable WebP conversion. Squarespace applies this optimization automatically to all uploaded images on 7.1 sites.
Do I need to upload images in a specific format?
No, just upload JPEG or PNG files as usual. Squarespace will handle the WebP conversion automatically.
Will this affect image quality on my site?
WebP conversion is designed to maintain visual quality while reducing file size. Most people won't notice any difference in how images look.
Does this work on Squarespace 7.0 sites?
No, automatic WebP conversion is only available on Squarespace 7.1 sites. If you're still on 7.0, this is another good reason to consider upgrading.
What happens if I download images from my site?
You'll get the original format you uploaded (JPEG or PNG), not the WebP version that browsers see.
### Jargon Buster
WebP – A modern image format created by Google that produces smaller file sizes than JPEG or PNG while maintaining similar quality.
Fallback – A backup option that kicks in when the preferred choice isn't available. Here, original JPEG/PNG files serve as fallbacks for browsers that don't support WebP.
Server-side conversion – Processing that happens on Squarespace's servers rather than on your device, so you don't see or control the conversion process directly.
Compression – The process of reducing file sizes by removing unnecessary data from images, making them load faster on websites.
### Wrap-up
Squarespace's automatic WebP conversion is one of those features that works quietly in the background to improve your site's performance. You don't need to learn new skills or change how you upload images, but your visitors get a faster, better experience.
This kind of automatic optimization is exactly why many people choose Squarespace over managing their own technical setup. The platform handles performance improvements so you can focus on creating great content instead of worrying about file formats and compression settings.
Ready to dive deeper into Squarespace optimization techniques? Join Pixelhaze Academy for more hands-on tutorials and expert guidance.