JPG vs PNG: Choose the Right Format
Both JPG and PNG are image formats, but they work differently. Using the wrong one means either poor quality or unnecessarily large files.
The Quick Answer
| Use Case | Best Format |
|----------|-------------|
| Photos | JPG |
| Screenshots | PNG |
| Graphics with text | PNG |
| Logos | PNG |
| Web photos | JPG |
| Images needing transparency | PNG |
| Large photos for email | JPG |
| Social media photos | JPG |
How They Differ
JPG (JPEG)
Lossy compression: Reduces file size by discarding data
- Photographs
- Complex images with many colors
- Situations where file size matters
- Web images
- No transparency
- Quality degrades with each save
- Text and sharp edges can blur
PNG
Lossless compression: Reduces file size without losing data
- Screenshots
- Graphics with text
- Images needing transparency
- Logos and icons
- Images that will be edited further
- Larger file sizes than JPG
- Overkill for photos
The Transparency Factor
PNG supports transparency. JPG doesn't.
- Transparent backgrounds
- Logos on different colors
- Overlays
Use PNG.
Quality Comparison
- 100% = Large file, best quality
- 80% = Good balance
- 60% = Visible degradation
- Lower = Noticeable artifacts
Each time you save a JPG, it loses quality. Save originals as PNG or keep source files.
PNG: Same quality always—no degradation from saving.
When File Size Matters
- Photo at 1000px: JPG ~150KB vs PNG ~500KB
- Logo: PNG ~20KB vs JPG ~50KB (with better quality)
Other Formats
WebP: Newer format, smaller than both, not universally supported
GIF: For simple animations, limited colors
SVG: Vector graphics, infinite scaling, small files
Practical Examples
Email an event photo? → JPG
Screenshot of a bug? → PNG
Company logo? → PNG
Profile picture? → JPG
Infographic? → PNG
Product gallery? → JPG