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

Choosing the right image format affects how sharp your pictures look, how fast your website loads and whether an upload form accepts your file. Here is a simple guide to the three formats you will use most.

JPG (JPEG)

JPG is the classic photo format. It uses lossy compression, which means it throws away tiny details to make files small.

• Best for: photos, social media, email.
• Not ideal for: logos, text and graphics with sharp edges, or anything that needs a transparent background.

PNG

PNG uses lossless compression and supports transparency.

• Best for: logos, icons, screenshots, diagrams, images with text.
• Not ideal for: large photos, which become very heavy.

WebP

WebP is a modern format that is usually noticeably smaller than JPG at similar quality and can also support transparency. All modern browsers support it.

• Best for: websites and blogs where speed matters.
• Watch out: some older software and upload forms still do not accept WebP.

Quick decision guide

• Uploading a photo to a form? JPG.
• Logo with a transparent background? PNG.
• Images for your own website? WebP.
• Screenshot with small text? PNG.

How to convert an image format

1. Open Convert Image.
2. Select your images.
3. Choose JPG, PNG or WebP.
4. Download the converted files.

Try it now: Convert Image is free, works in your browser and needs no signup.

Good to know

When you convert a PNG with transparency to JPG, the transparent area is filled with a solid colour because JPG cannot store transparency. After converting, you can make files even smaller with Compress Image.

All conversion happens in your browser, so your images stay on your device.

Try it now: Convert Image is free, works in your browser and needs no signup.