To actually view the images, Windows also requires the HEVC Video Extensions codec. While the HEIF extension is free, the HEVC codec often costs $0.99 in the Microsoft Store.
: Excellent batch-conversion tools, robust tagging and sorting features, clean tabbed interface. heic image viewer windows 11
| Feature | Microsoft Extensions (Paid) | CopyTrans (Free) | XnView MP (Free) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | $0.99 | Free | Free | | Explorer Thumbnails | Yes | Yes | No (Internal viewing only) | | Opens in Photos App | Yes | Yes | No (Own app) | | Conversion Tools | Limited | Yes (Right-click) | Yes (Batch supported) | | Ease of Use | High | High | Medium | To actually view the images, Windows also requires