JPG vs PNG vs WebP vs AVIF: which format and when
A no-nonsense comparison of the four image formats that matter, with clear rules for when to pick each.
Picking the right image format is one of the easiest wins for smaller files and faster pages. Here's a quick decision guide.
JPG (JPEG)
Best for photographs. Lossy, no transparency, universally supported. The safe default when you need something every device and app can open.
PNG
Best for graphics with sharp edges, text, or transparency - logos, screenshots, icons. Lossless, so files can be large unless you optimize the palette.
WebP
A great modern default for the web: smaller than both JPG and PNG, supports transparency and animation, and is supported by all current browsers.
AVIF
The smallest of the four for photos, with excellent quality. Encoding is slower and support, while broad, is slightly newer. Ideal when file size is the top priority.
Quick rules
- Photo for any audience → JPG.
- Logo, screenshot, or needs transparency → PNG (or WebP).
- Web image, want it small → WebP.
- Smallest possible, modern audience → AVIF.