What is PNG?
PNG is a lossless raster format: every pixel is kept exactly, and it supports full transparency (alpha channel). It is the standard for logos, screenshots, icons and graphics with text or sharp edges. PNG is best for logos, screenshots, graphics with text and anything that needs a transparent background. PNG files of photos are large, because lossless compression cannot discard fine detail the eye does not notice.
What is JPG?
JPG (also written JPEG) is the most widely supported photo format. It uses lossy compression tuned for photographs, which keeps files small, but it has no transparency. JPG is best for photos, e-mail attachments, social media and any upload form.
When should you convert PNG to JPG?
- A PNG photo or screenshot is too heavy to e-mail or upload.
- A form, marketplace or printer only accepts JPG files.
- You want lighter images for a website or blog without visible quality loss.
Tips for the best result
PNG is perfect for logos and graphics with text, but for photos JPG is far smaller. If your PNG has a transparent background, choose the colour that will replace it — or keep PNG/WebP when transparency matters.
PNG vs JPG at a glance
| PNG | JPG | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Raster | Raster |
| Compression | Lossless | Lossy |
| Transparency | Yes (full alpha) | No |
| Animation | No (APNG rarely used) | No |
| Compatibility | Universal | Universal |
| Best for | Logos, screenshots, graphics with text and anything that needs a transparent background | Photos, e-mail attachments, social media and any upload form |