Format guide
WebP vs JPEG vs PNG for the web
WebP often beats JPEG and PNG on file size for the same visual quality, but PNG still wins for transparency and JPEG still wins for maximum compatibility.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
WebP vs JPEG vs PNG
| WebP | JPEG | PNG | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compression | Lossy or lossless | Lossy | Lossless (or palette reduction) |
| Transparency | Yes | No | Yes |
| Typical web use | Hero photos, thumbnails, responsive images | Fallback photos, email attachments | Logos, icons, UI, screenshots |
| Browser support | All major browsers today; check legacy embeds | Universal | Universal |
| File size (photos) | Often smallest at similar quality | Small | Usually largest |
Why WebP is not a full JPEG replacement
WebP uses modern compression that often delivers smaller files than JPEG at the same perceived quality. That helps Core Web Vitals and mobile bandwidth.
Some offline workflows—certain email clients, older CMS importers, or print shops—still expect JPEG or PNG. Export WebP for your site and keep a JPEG master when compatibility is unknown.
Pick a format
WebP
You publish to a website or app you control and can serve WebP (often with JPEG fallback elsewhere).
Image ConverterJPEG
Maximum compatibility for photos, newsletters, and uploads to platforms that reject WebP.
Image CompressorPNG
Transparency, crisp text, or lossless graphics—even if the file is larger.
Image CompressorShould I convert every PNG photo to WebP?
Only when the image is photo-heavy and you do not need transparency. Logos and UI should stay PNG or SVG.
Does Pixlery support WebP conversion locally?
Yes. Image Converter and Image Compressor handle WebP alongside JPG and PNG in the browser.
How does this relate to PNG vs JPEG?
See the PNG vs JPEG guide for the photo-vs-graphics split; this page adds WebP into that decision for web delivery.