Image

PNG vs JPG: Which Format Should You Use?

June 20, 2026 · By OmniTools Team

The short answer

  • Photographs → JPG (or WebP)
  • Logos, icons, screenshots, transparency → PNG

Why

JPG uses lossy compression tuned for continuous-tone images like photos. PNG is lossless and supports transparency, making it perfect for graphics with sharp edges and flat colour.

File size

For a typical photo, JPG can be 5–10× smaller than PNG. For a flat logo, PNG is often smaller and sharper.

When in doubt

Try WebP — it supports both lossy and lossless modes plus transparency, and is now supported everywhere. Convert instantly with our Image Converter.

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