PNG vs JPEG
Differences, use cases, and when to use each
PNG uses lossless compression with transparency support, ideal for graphics and screenshots. JPEG uses lossy compression for photographs, achieving much smaller files at the cost of some quality.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | PNG | JPEG |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Lossless | Lossy |
| Transparency | Full alpha channel | Not supported |
| Best For | Graphics, screenshots, text | Photographs, gradients |
| File Size | Larger | Much smaller |
| Color Depth | Up to 48-bit | 24-bit |
When to Use Each
When to Use PNG
Use PNG for screenshots, diagrams, logos, icons, text-heavy images, and anything requiring transparency or pixel-perfect accuracy.
When to Use JPEG
Use JPEG for photographs, camera images, and complex visual scenes where lossy compression produces dramatically smaller files with minimal visible quality loss.
Pros & Cons
PNG
Lossless quality
Transparency support
Sharp text and edges
Large file sizes for photos
No progressive loading (standard)
JPEG
Much smaller files for photos
Universal support
Progressive loading
No transparency
Lossy artifacts on sharp edges
Verdict
JPEG for photographs; PNG for graphics, screenshots, and anything needing transparency. For web, consider WebP which beats both in size.