Understanding when to use each format.
PNG is a lossless format that preserves every pixel exactly. It supports transparency, making it ideal for UI elements, logos, and any image where sharp edges matter. The tradeoff is larger file sizes for photographic content.
Best for
UI elements, logos, screenshots, graphics with sharp edges
Avoid for
Photographs (large file size)
JPEG is the most widely supported image format. It uses lossy compression to achieve small file sizes for photographs. It does not support transparency, so transparent areas become filled with a solid color.
Best for
Photographs, natural scenes
Avoid for
Images with text, sharp lines, or transparency
WebP is a modern format developed by Google. It supports both lossy and lossless compression, transparency, and produces files 25-35% smaller than JPEG for equivalent quality. Supported by all modern browsers.
Best for
Web images — photos and graphics
Avoid for
Very old browsers (pre-2020)
AVIF is the newest image format, based on the AV1 video codec. It offers the best compression of any supported format, often 50% smaller than JPEG. Supports transparency and HDR. Encoding is slower than other formats.
Best for
Web images where maximum compression matters
Avoid for
When encoding speed is critical