JPG vs PNG vs WEBP: Which Image Format Should You Use?

Choosing the wrong image format is the most common reason files are bigger than they need to be. Each of the big three — JPG, PNG and WEBP — has a job it does best.

JPG: The Photo Specialist

JPG uses lossy compression tuned for photographs. It handles millions of colors and smooth gradients beautifully at small file sizes. Its weakness: no transparency, and sharp edges like text or logos get fuzzy artifacts.

PNG: The Precision Format

PNG is lossless and supports full transparency. It is the right choice for screenshots, logos, icons, and any graphic with text. The cost is size — a PNG photo can be five times heavier than the same image as JPG.

WEBP: The Modern All-Rounder

WEBP, developed by Google, does both lossy and lossless compression, supports transparency, and typically produces files 25–35% smaller than JPG at the same quality. Every modern browser supports it. Unless you need compatibility with very old software, WEBP is usually the best default.

Quick Decision Guide

• Photograph for the web → WEBP (or JPG for maximum compatibility)
• Logo or icon with transparency → PNG or WEBP
• Screenshot with text → PNG
• Sending to someone with old software → JPG

Converting Between Formats

Converting is instant with the right tool. Our converter runs in your browser, so you can switch a whole folder of images between JPG, PNG and WEBP without uploading anything to a server.