JPG, PNG or WebP: choosing an image format

Choose a format based on photographs, small text, transparency and the receiving website.

Start with the image

For ordinary photographs, JPG is widely accepted and often compact. PNG can preserve sharp text and transparency. WebP can be useful online, but the receiving service must support it. Check the upload instructions before converting.

Compare the details that matter

Open the original and output at a readable size. Check small letters, stamps, logos and edges. A smaller file is only useful if the information remains legible. Avoid repeatedly saving an already compressed JPG.

Transparency and conversion

JPG has no transparent background. This site converts transparent areas to white, which may hide pale artwork. Keep the original PNG for future editing. Renaming a .webp file to .jpg does not change its encoding.

A practical example

For an application with a portrait and a certificate screenshot, try JPG for the portrait and preserve the certificate as PNG unless the recipient requires something else. Inspect the certificate at full size before choosing the smaller file.

Before sending

Check the final extension, file size and image clarity. Keep the originals. Acceptance depends on the receiving service, not on a format being generally popular.