Image guide
Image file formats guide
The best image format depends on what the picture contains and where it will be used. A photo, a transparent logo, a web page image, and a phone camera file each have different needs. This guide explains the everyday differences between JPG, PNG, WebP, and HEIC.
JPG
JPG is the most common choice for photos. It creates smaller files by using lossy compression, which means some image information is simplified. For real-world photos, the result often looks good at a much smaller file size. JPG does not support transparency, so it is not ideal for logos that need a transparent background.
PNG
PNG is useful for graphics, screenshots, icons, and images with sharp edges or text. It supports transparency and usually preserves crisp detail. The trade-off is that PNG files can be large, especially for full-color photos. Converting PNG photos to JPG can reduce file size, but transparent areas become a solid background.
WebP
WebP is designed for the web and can be efficient for both photos and graphics. Many browsers support it, and it often creates smaller files than JPG or PNG at similar visual quality. Some older systems and upload forms still prefer JPG, so converting WebP to JPG can help when compatibility matters.
HEIC
HEIC is common on iPhones and can store high-quality photos in smaller files. The problem is compatibility: some websites, document systems, and Windows workflows still expect JPG. HEIC to JPG conversion is useful when you need to submit, print, or share phone photos with people who may not be able to open HEIC files.
Simple decisions
- Photos: JPG is usually the safest output.
- Transparent graphics: PNG is the better choice.
- Website assets: WebP is efficient when the site supports it.
- iPhone photos for upload: convert HEIC to JPG when compatibility is uncertain.
한국어 요약
JPG는 사진 공유와 업로드에 가장 무난합니다. PNG는 투명 배경, 아이콘, 글자가 들어간 이미지에 좋습니다. WebP는 웹에서 효율적이지만 일부 서비스에서는 JPG를 요구할 수 있습니다. HEIC는 아이폰 사진에서 자주 보이며, 호환성 때문에 JPG로 변환해야 하는 경우가 많습니다.