Should I use PNG or JPEG?

For most use cases, JPEG is the recommended default. Use PNG when: logos and ui assets, need transparency, crisp edges. Use JPEG when: photographs, gradients, small photo delivery.

Can I convert between PNG and JPEG?

Yes. Use optimo to convert between them with a single command. Run "npx optimo file --format jpeg" to convert from PNG to JPEG.

PNG vs JPEG

PNG is lossless and great for sharp edges + transparency. JPEG is usually much smaller for photos but is lossy and has no transparency.

Last updated: 2026-03-18

PNG is lossless and great for sharp edges + transparency. JPEG is usually much smaller for photos but is lossy and has no transparency. For most projects, JPEG is the recommended default.

Key differences

Topic	PNG	JPEG
Compression	Lossless	Lossy
Transparency	Yes	No
Best for	Graphics/UI	Photos

When to use PNG

Logos and UI assets
Need transparency
Crisp edges

When to use JPEG

Photographs
Gradients
Small photo delivery

Our recommendation

For most web projects, use JPEG. JPEG is best for photographs. Choose PNG when logos and ui assets.

Next steps

Optimize PNG Compress PNG Resize PNG PNG format guide

Convert between them

Convert PNG to JPEG Convert JPEG to PNG

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between PNG and JPEG?: PNG is lossless and great for sharp edges + transparency. JPEG is usually much smaller for photos but is lossy and has no transparency.
Should I use PNG or JPEG?: For most use cases, JPEG is the recommended default. Use PNG when: logos and ui assets, need transparency, crisp edges. Use JPEG when: photographs, gradients, small photo delivery.
Can I convert between PNG and JPEG?: Yes. Use optimo to convert between them with a single command. Run "npx optimo file --format jpeg" to convert from PNG to JPEG.