It is quite confusing when you are choosing a file format for your images to get the job done. PNG, JPG, and GIF are some common ones that people usually see.
The decision may be even more difficult when you have to decide when to use PNG vs JPG, for example in print, in order to get the best possible quality for your image.
In this article, we will outline some of the basics of JPG vs. PNG so you can make a better decision when it comes to choosing which image file format to use for your needs.
JPG Meaning
JPG, also known as JPEG, is the most common file format for digital photos or graphics you’ll come across on the web.
When JPG files are saved, they use the lossy compression technique, which means that the quality of the image is lost as the file size is reduced.
You will also lose some image quality if you convert an image to JPG format.
PNG Meaning
PNG, on the other hand, was created as an improved replacement for the Graphics Interchange Format (GIF). Unlike JPG, it uses lossless compression which means there’s no data lost when the file is compressed.
Since no data is lost, PNG is a high-quality file format – generally higher in image quality than JPGs when compressed in size to save space.
JPG isn’t generally bad quality images. That’s why it is still accepted by webs, in most cases, for viewing and sharing because JPGs find a balance between file size and image quality.
Difference between PNG and JPG
It is important to note that JPG and PNG are both raster image file extensions. This means that they are constructed by a series of pixels, or individual blocks, to form an image. However, both JPG vs. PNG file formats have significantly different attributes as illustrated in the comparative table below:
| Attribute | PNG | JPG |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Lossless – no image data is lost | Lossy |
| Size | Larger file size than JPG | Smaller file size |
| Transparency | Supports background transparency, which means it can go on any background while still maintaining its appearance. | No transparency option |
| Quality | High image quality | Low image quality |
| Color | Includes all color options. | Excludes the 16-bit color option. JPG uses the fact that human eyes can see light and dark better than color detail to sacrifice some color detail and save space. Which explains its lower image quality. |
| Resolution | Higher resolution than JPG | Lower resolution |
When to Use PNG vs JPG
Now that you know exactly the different attributes of PNG vs. JPG, which is the best for use in web, social media platforms, print, archiving, logos, and more.
PNG or JPG for Web
PNG is often used for graphics, as its name suggests, on websites, and other graphic design applications because of their lossless quality. This means you get to save your image with more colors and transparent background; all of which make for sharper, web-quality images.
JPG, as we stated earlier, is ubiquitous on the web for general web use, viewing, and image sharing. This is because of its smaller size which means a shorter load time.
PNG or JPG for Printing
At high resolution files with low compression, JPEGs are perfect for editing and then printing. However, some will argue that JPG loses some of its quality every time you open it, edit it, and save it. This shouldn’t be reason enough to avoid the JPG format. You can preserve image quality in PNG and then convert the final version to JPG before printing.
You can still use PNG for printing to create an extra sharp image but keep in mind that the color tone and transitions may be a little different. The transparency in PNG can also be good when printing images on t-shirts, mugs, and more.
PNG or JPG for Social Media
JPG is a winner for sharing pictures on social media platforms. Digital cameras use JPG, and so, it is a gold standard for real-world photos. Whether it’s a selfie, a picture of the sunset, or your pet, it is most likely going to be a JPG which you can easily share online.
This also makes JPG perfect for non-professional prints.
PNG or JPG for Archiving
To archive means to store. So, you might want to store as many images as possible. So, JPG becomes the best format to use for archiving purposes. It’s known for its small size, and if you archive your pictures, the file size is a win for most people.
And since JPGs can be shared on social media platforms, this is also a reason why it is better than other formats in this case.
PNG, on the other hand, is a good choice for storing line drawings, text, and iconic graphics at small file sizes.
Wrap up
Both PNG and JPG have their pros and cons. And it is safe to conclude that in most cases, the loss in quality and difference in size between PNG vs JPG won’t really matter that much. Because of such differences, however, one might outperform the other depending on how you plan to use it.
Just keep in mind that JPG is ideal for real-world photos; that is photography. On the other, PNG is great for graphics as well as line drawings since it offers a high level of detail and quality.