Tech Comparisons
JPEG vs PNG
Choosing the right image format can significantly impact your website loading speed and user experience.
| Feature | JPEG | PNG |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Lossy compression. Discards data to reduce file size. | Lossless compression. Retains all image data. |
| Transparency | No support for transparency. | Supports alpha channel transparency. |
| File Size | Small file sizes, great for photographs. | Larger file sizes, especially for complex images. |
| Best For | Photographs, realistic scenes, gradients. | Logos, icons, screenshots, images with text. |
JPEG Pros & Cons
Pros
- Smallest file sizes
- Widely supported
- Adjustable compression levels
Cons
- No transparency
- Artifacts appear at high compression
- Not suitable for text/logos
PNG Pros & Cons
Pros
- High quality (Lossless)
- Transparent backgrounds
- Crisp edges for text/logos
Cons
- Larger file sizes
- Not efficient for photos
Verdict
Use JPEG for photographs and complex images where small file size is critical. Use PNG for logos, graphics with transparent backgrounds, and images containing text where clarity is paramount. For modern web use, also consider WebP.