PNG vs JPG vs WebP: Which Image Format Should You Use?
Updated October 22, 2026
The right image format can make a file several times smaller or keep a logo crisp. Here is how PNG, JPG and WebP differ and which to pick.
At a glance
| JPG | PNG | WebP | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Photos | Logos, screenshots, text | Almost everything on the web |
| Compression | Lossy | Lossless | Lossy or lossless |
| Transparency | No | Yes | Yes |
| Animation | No | No | Yes |
| File size for photos | Small | Very large | Smallest |
| Support | Everywhere | Everywhere | All current browsers |
When to choose JPG
- Photographs and pictures with many colors and soft gradients.
- When the picture must open in any program, printer or old website.
- When transparency is not needed.
When to choose PNG
- Logos, icons and illustrations with flat colors and sharp edges.
- Screenshots and pictures with text, where JPG leaves blurry halos.
- Anything that needs a transparent background, or that you will edit and save many times.
When to choose WebP
- Pictures on your website: WebP files are usually about 25% to 35% smaller than JPG at similar quality.
- When you want one format for both photos and graphics with transparency.
- Not for sharing with people whose programs may be old: some email clients and editors still do not open it. Convert to JPG for those.
How to switch format
Use the Image Converter to change JPG, PNG and WebP into each other, in bulk, in your browser. Remember that converting does not add quality: a JPG saved as PNG is still a JPG-quality picture, only bigger. Transparent areas become a color when you save as JPG, so pick one that suits.
Frequently asked questions
Is WebP better than JPG?
For file size, usually yes. For compatibility, JPG is still safer. For websites, WebP is a good default. For files you send to other people, JPG or PNG is the safe choice.
Which format is best for a logo?
SVG if you have it, since it is sharp at any size. Otherwise PNG or WebP with a transparent background.