JPEG Jackal Pro 2.1

JPEG Jackal PRO helps you save storage space and speed up data transfers by compressing images. Likewise, it allows converting various image formats to JPEG. The application could not be made any simpler to use. In this respect, you can drag the intended folder and drop it onto the app’s window. The tool can automatically find the pictures in the folder and start converting. Once the process has finished, it shows how much space was spared.

Even though the default settings probably work for you, it is a good idea to check what else you can do. For instance, it is possible to configure the app to scan not only the selected folders but its subfolders as well. Likewise, you can drag a slider to pick the desired compression level. Finally, you should be aware that, by default, the app overwrites the source files. So, in case you are just experimenting, it is a good idea to save the resulting images to a different folder.

Although the standard version does not support source formats other than JPEG, the Pro version I am reviewing here allows importing other image types. However, the only output format supported is JPEG. This means, that the tool can also be used for converting various image formats to JPEG but not vice versa.

All in all, JPEG Jackal PRO uses a powerful algorithm to reduce the size of your photographs without noticeably damaging their quality. However, you should bear in mind that shrinking images is always at the expense of quality, so try to reach a proper balance between compression and quality. Regrettably, JPEG Jackal PRO is not in the group of just a few apps that can actually upgrade the original quality. Finally, there is a free version but it limits the number of images you can process per day.