Here's the short answer: photos often work well as JPG or WebP. Screenshots and graphics often work well as PNG or WebP. Need transparency? Check whether PNG or WebP is accepted by the destination.
Now the longer answer, because "it depends" is actually true here.
JPG (JPEG)
JPG uses lossy compression—it permanently discards some image data to reduce file size. It often works well for photographs, but the result depends on the encoder, settings, and source image.
Use JPG when:
- You're working with photographs
- You need small file sizes
- You don't need transparency
- You're sending images via email or uploading to platforms with size limits
Don't use JPG when:
- Your image has text, sharp lines, or flat colors (JPG creates visible "ringing" artifacts around hard edges)
- You need a transparent background
- You'll be editing and re-saving the file multiple times (each save loses more quality)
JPG has broad support across browsers, devices, and publishing tools. When compatibility matters, confirm the destination's accepted formats and limits.
PNG
PNG uses lossless compression — every pixel is preserved exactly. This makes it perfect for screenshots, graphics, logos, and anything with text or sharp edges.
Use PNG when:
- You're saving screenshots, UI mockups, or graphics with text
- You need a transparent background
- You need pixel-perfect reproduction (no compression artifacts)
- Your image has flat colors, sharp lines, or text
Don't use PNG when:
- You're saving photographs and a lossy format produces an acceptable result at a smaller size
- File size is a priority and the content is photographic
PNG's lossless nature is both its strength and its tradeoff. It preserves source pixels, but detailed photos may produce larger PNGs than suitable lossy alternatives. Compare the actual outputs because image content matters.
If you have PNGs of photos that are bloating your site, convert them with the PNG to JPG converter for an easy win.
WebP
WebP supports both lossy and lossless compression, transparency, and animation. Whether it produces the smallest acceptable file depends on the source and settings.
Use WebP when:
- You're building for the web (all modern browsers support it)
- You want the smallest possible file size
- You need transparency but want smaller files than PNG
- You're optimizing an existing site's images
Don't use WebP when:
- You're sending files to someone who might open them on legacy software
- You're uploading to a platform that specifically requires JPG or PNG
- You're working in print (CMYK workflows expect TIFF or high-quality JPG)
Current major browsers support WebP, but a non-browser destination may still require JPG or PNG. Convert a copy with the PNG to WebP or WebP to PNG converter and test it in the actual workflow.
Format comparison
| | JPG | PNG | WebP | |---|---|---|---| | Compression | Lossy | Lossless | Both | | Transparency | No | Yes | Yes | | Animation | No | No (APNG exists but rare) | Yes | | Browser support | Universal | Universal | All modern browsers | | Best for | Photos | Screenshots, graphics | Almost everything | | Typical photo use | Common choice | Often larger | Compare with JPG |
What about AVIF and HEIC?
AVIF is a newer format that supports modern compression features. Browser and platform support can change, so check the destination before adopting it and compare the rendered result with other formats.
HEIC is commonly used by Apple devices, but some websites and apps do not accept it. Check the destination's supported formats and use a trusted local or platform-provided export workflow while keeping the original.
The simple decision rules
Still not sure? Follow these rules:
- It's a photo for the web → WebP (or JPG for maximum compatibility)
- It's a screenshot or graphic → PNG (or WebP if size matters)
- It needs a transparent background → PNG or WebP
- It's going in an email → check the recipient's accepted formats and attachment limit
- You don't know → check the destination, then compare two accepted formats
The best format is the one that gives you the quality you need at the smallest file size. When in doubt, try two accepted formats and compare—the PNG to JPG and PNG to WebP converters let you inspect copies directly.
Format is only one part of the file-size workflow. If the source image has more pixels than its destination needs, resize the image before the final conversion or compression pass.
Is WebP better than PNG?
Not automatically. WebP may produce a smaller acceptable photo, while PNG's lossless behavior may be preferable for some screenshots and graphics. Both can support transparency. Compare outputs and confirm destination support.
Can all browsers open WebP?
Current versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge support WebP. If the image will be used outside a browser, check the receiving app or platform as well.
Should I convert all my PNGs to JPG?
Only if they're photos. PNGs of screenshots, graphics, or anything with text should stay as PNG or convert to WebP. JPG compression creates visible artifacts on sharp edges and text — that's not a quality setting issue, it's how JPG works.