JPG, PNG, WebP, or HEIC: which format should you use?
A practical guide to choosing image formats before converting photos, screenshots, transparent images, and web assets.
Test record and current workspace
This is a capture of the published workspace used for the guide. The record below separates what was tested, what was observed, and what still depends on the browser or device.
Current published workspace used while checking “JPG, PNG, WebP, or HEIC: which format should you use?”.
The published image workspace accepts browser-decodable PNG, JPG, WebP, AVIF, BMP, SVG, and GIF input and provides PNG, JPG, and WebP output with side-by-side preview.
Known limit
Input support still follows the current browser decoder; JPG removes transparency and animated input is handled as a still frame.
Use JPG for photos
JPG is usually the easiest choice for photos where a small file matters more than perfect pixel preservation.
Good for camera photos and blog images.
Does not support transparency.
Repeated saving can reduce quality.
Use PNG for sharp or transparent images
PNG is useful when edges, screenshots, UI captures, or transparent backgrounds need to stay clean.
Good for screenshots and graphics.
Supports transparency.
Can be larger than JPG for photos.
Use WebP for web delivery
WebP often gives smaller files while keeping good quality, but compatibility requirements should be checked.
Useful for websites and social previews.
Supports transparency.
Keep JPG or PNG copies when maximum compatibility matters.
