Guide
PNG vs JPEG: When to Use Each Format
Understanding the differences between PNG and JPEG formats can help you choose the right one for your needs. Compare quality, file size, and use cases.
January 10, 2024
3 min read
Choosing between PNG and JPEG depends on the type of image and its intended use.
JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)
- Best for: Photographs and images with smooth color gradients.
- Compression: Lossy compression, meaning some data is discarded to reduce file size.
- File Size: Generally smaller than PNG for complex images.
- Transparency: Does not support transparency.
PNG (Portable Network Graphics)
- Best for: Graphics, logos, illustrations, and images with sharp lines or text.
- Compression: Lossless compression, preserving all original data.
- File Size: Can be larger than JPEG for photographs, but smaller for simple graphics.
- Transparency: Supports transparency (alpha channel).
In summary, use JPEG for photos where some quality loss is acceptable for smaller file sizes, and PNG for graphics where transparency and sharp details are critical.