Image
7 min read
January 20, 2025

PNG vs JPG vs WebP: Which Image Format Should You Use in 2025?

The wrong image format can double your file sizes and slow down your site. Here's the definitive decision matrix for 2025.

PNG vs JPG vs WebP: Which Image Format Should You Use in 2025?

PNG uses lossless compression — every pixel value is preserved. Ideal for:

  • Logos and icons (sharp edges, no artefacts)
  • Screenshots (text must be crisp)
  • Images with transparency (full alpha channel)
  • Typical sizes: 500KB–5MB. A 1920×1080 screenshot: 800KB–2MB.

    When NOT to use PNG: Photographs — a photo as PNG is 5–10× larger than equivalent JPG.

    JPG — The Photo Workhorse

    JPEG uses lossy compression optimised for photographs. No transparency support.

    Typical sizes: 50–500KB at quality 80.

    WebP — The Modern Choice

    25–35% smaller than JPG at equivalent quality. Full transparency in lossy mode. 97%+ browser support.

    Decision Matrix

    Use caseBest format
    Product photos (web)WebP
    Blog post imagesWebP
    Logo / iconPNG or SVG
    Screenshot with textPNG
    Email attachmentJPG
    Image with transparency on webWebP

    Convert formats instantly with our PNG to JPG or WebP Converter.

    Written by the GMC Tools team