Understanding the Formats
Choosing the right image format is crucial for web performance. The two heavyweights are JPEG and PNG.
JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)
JPEG uses "lossy" compression. It discards some data to reduce file sizes dramatically. Best used for:
- Photographs
- Images with complex colors and gradients
- Hero images
PNG (Portable Network Graphics)
PNG uses "lossless" compression, meaning no data is lost. It also supports transparency. Best used for:
- Logos and Icons
- Images requiring a transparent background
- Graphics with sharp lines and text
Converting Between the Two
If you have a PNG that doesn't need transparency and is too large, convert it using our PNG to JPG Converter to save massive amounts of bandwidth.