Formats6 min read
PNG or JPG: Which Format Should You Choose?
When to use PNG, JPG, WebP, and how to convert between formats without breaking quality.
The simple difference
JPG is made for photos and small file sizes. PNG is made for sharp graphics, screenshots, and transparency. Choosing the wrong format can make images heavy or visually weak.
Use JPG when
- The image is a product photo or lifestyle photo.
- You need the smallest practical file size.
- The image does not need transparency.
- You are preparing marketplace thumbnails or social media images.
Use PNG when
- The image has a transparent background.
- The content contains icons, logos, text, or sharp edges.
- You need lossless quality for editing or design handoff.
Practical tip: For modern websites, WebP often gives the best balance because it supports transparency while keeping file size low.
Want to try it now?
Every tool mentioned in this article is available on Lumageni.