JPEGs and PNGs are the most common formats for storing images. But while they share many similarities, they also differ on some levels.
Table Summary
| JPEG | PNG |
| Uses a lossy compression process for high-quality images | It uses a lossless compression process |
| It is storage effective | It takes up more storage |
| It does not support transparent images | Supports transparent images such as non-rectangular logos |
Getty Images / Moment / Manu Vega
Definitions
The JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) is one of the most widespread formats for storing digital photographs. Many contemporary cameras use them to capture and store photos. JPEGs are compressed to considerably reduce picture file size, making them easier to store and load on websites. JPEG pictures can include as many as 16 million colors.
PNG (Portable Network Graphics) is a lossless image compression file format. PNG nearly superseded the formerly popular Graphics Interchange Format (GIF).
JPEG VS PNG
Portable Network Graphics (PNG) files are compressible and can also accommodate 16 million colors. But they take up more storage space than JPEGs, so they are usually used for online graphics, logos, charts, and drawings rather than high-quality images. JPEGs are extremely popular among photographers and enterprises with extensive picture archives. Because of their reduced file size, several digital photographs may be shared and downloaded simultaneously, making good use of storage space. JPEGs are meant to contain high-quality digital pictures rich in detail and color. They employ a lossy compression method to compress huge photos into smaller file sizes, making them easier to distribute and post online. However, this comes at a cost because some data from the Image is permanently erased when it is shrunk.
JPEGs do not support transparent backgrounds. As a result, non-rectangular logos and visuals with a lot of text are unlikely to look well in this format. PNG files, on the other hand, offer transparency, work well with diverse backdrop colors on a website, and make the text easier to see.
JPEGs do not support transparent backgrounds. As a result, non-rectangular logos and visuals with a lot of text are unlikely to look well in this format. PNG files, on the other hand, offer transparency, work well with diverse backdrop colors on a website, and make the text easier to see.