JPEG vs PNG: which compresses better?
JPEG and PNG are both familiar image formats, but they make very different promises. JPEG is willing to simplify visual information to save space. PNG preserves pixel values exactly. The better choice depends on what the image contains and what the destination accepts.
JPEG is usually lighter for photographs
Photos contain thousands of subtle color changes. JPEG groups and approximates some of that detail in ways designed to be less noticeable to human vision. With a sensible quality setting, the savings can be large while the image still looks natural at its intended size.
Push JPEG too far and you will see block shapes, halos around edges and smeared texture. Starting from a large, clean source gives the encoder more room to make a good compromise.
PNG protects crisp edges
PNG uses lossless compression. It excels at screenshots, interface elements, flat illustrations, diagrams and text because every decoded pixel matches the encoded pixel. It can also store transparency.
A photographic PNG is often much heavier than a comparable JPEG. Converting a JPEG photo to PNG does not recover details the JPEG already discarded; it commonly creates a larger file with the same visible limitations.
Choose based on the image—not habit
Use JPEG for ordinary photos when compatibility and small size matter. Use PNG for sharp graphics, transparent assets and images that will be edited repeatedly. WebP is another useful option when the destination supports it because it handles both photographs and transparency efficiently.
- Portrait or landscape photo: start with JPEG or WebP
- Logo with transparent background: choose PNG or WebP
- Screenshot with small text: choose PNG
- Strict legacy form: follow its listed format exactly