How to Compress Images for Scanned Receipts Without Losing Quality
Strictly speaking, JPEG compression always discards something, but you can make the loss invisible. Expense tools mostly need receipts to be legible, not print quality, so small files work well.
Recommended settings for scanned receipts
| Setting | Starting point |
|---|---|
| Format | JPEG (WebP where accepted) |
| Width | about 1200 px on the long edge |
| Quality | 70 |
| File size | 150 KB or less |
These are practical defaults. If the platform or form you are using publishes its own limits, follow those instead.
How to Compress Images
The trick is to remove data the eye cannot see: extra pixels beyond display size and fine noise in flat areas. Resizing to 1200 pixels and using quality 70 does exactly that.
Compare before and after at 100 percent zoom. If you cannot spot a difference at the size people will see it for scanned receipts, you have compressed without visible loss.
Step by step with TheCompressJPEG
- Open the compress JPEG to 150 KB tool, or the main compressor for custom settings.
- Drop in your image. Nothing is uploaded; it is processed in your browser.
- Set the maximum width to 1200 and the target size to 150 KB.
- Press Compress, check the result and download it.
Quick tips
- Write a size limit slightly below the stated maximum to leave a margin.
- Process private images locally rather than uploading them to unknown servers.
- Crop out distractions so pixels go to the subject.
- Use WebP where it is supported and you control the page.
FAQ
What size should an image be for e-learning courses?
A practical default is about 1600 pixels wide and 200 KB or less, unless the destination states its own limits.
Can I compress images for e-learning courses without uploading them?
Yes. TheCompressJPEG runs entirely in your browser, so your images never leave your device.
Is WebP accepted for e-learning courses?
It depends on the platform. JPEG is the safest choice when you are not sure.
Wrapping up
For scanned receipts, the reliable recipe is simple: resize to around 1200 pixels, compress at quality 70 or to a 150 KB target, and check the result before you upload. Keep the original so you can always start again.
Related guides
- Batch Compressing Photos for Scanned Receipts
When you have dozens of images, consistency matters as much as size.
- Why Your Images Are Too Large for Scanned Receipts
If an upload keeps failing, the image is usually larger than it needs to be in more ways than one.
- Image File Size Checklist for Scanned Receipts
Run through this list before you upload.
- How to Get a JPEG Under 150 KB for Scanned Receipts
Hitting an exact size limit is easier with a target-size compressor.
- Batch Compressing Photos for E-learning Courses
When you have dozens of images, consistency matters as much as size.
- Image File Size Checklist for Etsy Listings
Run through this list before you upload.