WebP vs PNG vs JPG: Complete Format Comparison Guide

Choosing the right image format can dramatically affect your website speed and image quality. This guide breaks down exactly when to use WebP, PNG, or JPG.

Format Comparison at a Glance

When to Use WebP

WebP is Google's modern image format that provides superior compression for both lossy and lossless images. It typically produces files 25-35% smaller than equivalent JPG or PNG files with no visible quality loss.

• •Website images — Faster load times mean better SEO and user experience
• •E-commerce product photos — Smaller files with sharp details
• •Blog images — Reduce page weight without sacrificing quality
• •Images with transparency — WebP handles alpha channels efficiently

When to Use PNG

PNG uses lossless compression, meaning no quality is lost during compression. This makes it ideal for images where sharpness and precise colors matter more than file size.

• •Logos and icons — Sharp edges and solid colors stay crisp
• •Screenshots — Text remains readable without compression artifacts
• •Graphics with text — No blurring around letter edges
• •Images requiring transparency — Full alpha channel support

When to Use JPG

JPG has been the standard for photographs since the 1990s. While WebP is technically superior, JPG remains useful for maximum compatibility and when working with older systems.

• •Email attachments — Universal compatibility across all email clients
• •Print-ready photos — Most print services prefer JPG
• •Legacy systems — When WebP support isn't guaranteed
• •Social media — Some platforms still convert WebP to JPG anyway

File Size Comparison

Here's a real-world example comparing the same 1920x1080 photograph saved in each format:

How to Convert Between Formats

1. 1

   Open the Image Converter

   Go to our free image converter.

2. 2

   Upload Your Image

   Drag and drop or click to select. Supports JPG, PNG, WebP, GIF, and BMP.

3. 3

   Choose Output Format

   Select WebP, PNG, or JPG from the dropdown menu.

4. 4

   Download Instantly

   Your converted image downloads immediately. No upload to servers.