JPG, PNG or WEBP: which image format to choose and when

JPG, PNG and WEBP are the three most common image formats, and choosing well greatly changes the file's weight and quality. Quick rule: JPG for photos, PNG when you need transparency or maximum sharpness, and WEBP when you want the best of both for the web.

JPG: ideal for photographs

JPG compresses photos with many colors and gradients very well, so it stays light. In return, it loses a little quality on each save and doesn't support transparent backgrounds. It's the best choice for real photographs.

PNG: transparency and sharp lines

PNG keeps quality with no loss and allows transparent backgrounds, which is why it's king for logos, icons, screenshots and graphics with text. The downside: it weighs much more than JPG for photographs.

WEBP: the modern balance

WEBP delivers files lighter than JPG and PNG while keeping quality, and it also supports transparency. It's excellent for fast websites; its only weak point is that some older programs still can't open it.

Quick summary

• Photographs → JPG (or WEBP for web).
• Logos, icons or transparency → PNG (or WEBP).
• Fast websites → WEBP whenever you can.