JPG vs PNG: What's the Difference and Which Image Format Should You Use?

When it comes to digital images, there are two main image formats that you need to know about: JPG and PNG. Both are widely used, but they have some distinct differences. Knowing which format to use in different situations can help you create the best possible images for your projects.

In this article, we'll explore the key differences between JPG and PNG and explain when you should use each format. We'll also provide some tips on how to convert images from one format to the other using EraseBG's online image converter.

What is a JPG Image?

JPG (or JPEG, which stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group) is a popular image format used for digital photographs and other continuous-tone images. It's the most common format for storing and transmitting photographic images on the internet, and it's supported by all web browsers and most image-editing programs.

JPG images are highly compressed, which means they take up less space than other image formats. This makes them ideal for web use, as they can be quickly loaded and displayed without taking up too much bandwidth. JPGs can also be used for print, but they don't offer the same level of quality as other formats.

What is a PNG Image?

PNG (or Portable Network Graphics) is another popular image format. It's mainly used for web graphics, such as logos, icons, and other simple graphics. PNG images offer better quality than JPGs, as they use lossless compression, which means no data is lost when the image is compressed. This makes PNGs ideal for images that require high levels of detail, such as logos and illustrations.

PNGs are also great for images that require transparency, such as logos and icons. Unlike JPGs, which don't support transparency, PNGs allow you to make certain parts of the image transparent, so you can place them on any background without the need for a separate image mask.

When Should You Use JPG Images?

JPGs are the ideal format for digital photographs and other continuous-tone images. They offer a good balance between image quality and file size, so they can be quickly loaded and displayed without taking up too much bandwidth. JPGs are also the best choice for print, as they offer better quality than other formats.

If you need to make your images as small as possible, you can use JPGs with a higher compression setting. This will reduce the file size further, but it will also reduce the image quality, so it's best to keep the compression setting as low as possible.

When Should You Use PNG Images?

PNGs are the ideal format for web graphics, such as logos, icons, and other simple graphics. They offer better quality than JPGs, as they use lossless compression, so they're perfect for images that require high levels of detail. PNGs also support transparency, so they're great for images that need to be placed on any background without the need for a separate image mask.

PNGs are also a good choice for images that don't require high levels of detail, such as screenshots and diagrams. They offer better quality than JPGs and they're also more