JPG vs PNG vs WebP vs AVIF: which format should you use?

Choosing an image format is mostly a trade between file size, quality and transparency. Here is the short version, with no jargon.

JPG — best for photographs

JPG compresses photos to small files by dropping detail the eye barely notices. It does not support transparency, so it is a poor choice for logos that need a clear background.

PNG — best for logos, text and transparency

PNG keeps sharp edges and supports transparency, which makes it ideal for logos, icons and screenshots. For photographs, PNG files are usually much larger than JPG.

WebP — best for most websites today

WebP is a modern format that is usually smaller than JPG for photos and smaller than PNG for graphics, while supporting transparency. It is widely supported by browsers and websites, so it is a strong default for web images.

AVIF — smallest, but check support

AVIF can be even smaller than WebP at the same visual quality, especially for photos. Support is growing in modern browsers, but older tools and platforms may not accept it yet, so keep a JPG or WebP copy for sharing.

Quick decision guide

• Photo for a website or email: JPG or WebP.
• Logo, icon or image with transparency: PNG or WebP.
• Smallest web file, modern browsers only: AVIF.
• Unsure, or sharing anywhere: JPG — it works everywhere.

Try it: use the free image converter to change a photo between formats and compare the file sizes yourself, all in your browser.