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

Almost every web image is one of three formats. Choosing the right one is mostly about two questions: is it a photo, and does it need transparency?

JPG (JPEG)

Lossy, no transparency, excellent for photographs and complex images with smooth colour gradients. It throws away high-frequency detail the eye tends not to notice, which is why a JPEG photo is a fraction of the size of the same image as PNG. Bad for sharp edges, text and flat colour, where it produces halo artefacts.

PNG

Lossless, supports full transparency, best for logos, icons, screenshots, diagrams and anything with crisp edges or flat colour. A PNG of a photograph is usually several times larger than the JPEG, so avoid it there.

WebP

Does both jobs: a lossy mode that beats JPEG and a lossless mode that beats PNG, plus transparency and animation. Supported by every current browser. The main reason not to use it is a workflow or old application that cannot read it — in which case the WebP to PNG converter helps.

Quick rule

• Photo, size matters → WebP, or JPEG for maximum compatibility
• Logo, icon, screenshot, transparency → PNG, or lossless WebP
• Need one format for a mixed set → convert everything to WebP