Comparison
Compresto vs ShortPixel
ShortPixel is purpose-built for WordPress image optimization via API and plugin. Compresto is a native Mac app for compressing images locally — no plugins, no API calls, no internet required.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Compresto | ShortPixel |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | macOS app | Web API / WordPress plugin |
| Video compression | ||
| Image compression | ||
| PDF compression | ||
| Batch processing | ||
| Hardware acceleration | ||
| Drag & drop | ||
| Price model | One-time purchase / free tier | Free 100 images/month; paid plans from $3.99/month |
Compresto Strengths
- Works offline without internet or WordPress
- Video and PDF compression beyond image optimization
- One-time purchase vs monthly subscription
- Drag-and-drop local workflow — no API setup required
ShortPixel Strengths
- WordPress plugin for automatic image optimization on upload
- Bulk optimization of existing WordPress media libraries
- AVIF and WebP conversion for web delivery
Choose Compresto when...
- You compress images locally for email, social, or client delivery
- You do not use WordPress or need API-based optimization
- You need video or PDF compression alongside images
- You prefer offline processing without account setup
Choose ShortPixel when...
- You run a WordPress site and want automatic image optimization on upload
- You need to bulk-optimize an existing WordPress media library
- You need server-side AVIF/WebP conversion integrated into your CMS
Pricing
Compresto
One-time purchase $19.99 or free tier with limits
ShortPixel
Free for 100 images/month; plans from $3.99/month for more credits
Switching from ShortPixel?
For local files before uploading to any website, Compresto compresses them faster offline. Use ShortPixel for ongoing WordPress media management.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ShortPixel without WordPress?
- Yes, ShortPixel has a web interface and API, but its main value is the WordPress plugin. Compresto does not require any CMS and works as a standalone Mac app.
- Is ShortPixel free?
- ShortPixel offers 100 free image compressions per month. After that, paid plans start at $3.99/month. Compresto has a free tier and a $19.99 one-time purchase.
- Does Compresto work for WordPress image optimization?
- Compresto compresses images before you upload them to WordPress. ShortPixel automates this at the WordPress level with plugin integration.
- Which is better for a Mac user who is not on WordPress?
- Compresto is clearly better for non-WordPress users. ShortPixel's main advantage is WordPress automation which is irrelevant without a WordPress site.
- Does ShortPixel compress videos and PDFs?
- No. ShortPixel only compresses images. Compresto handles video (MP4, MOV), images, and PDFs.
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Compresto vs Apple Compressor
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