IMAGE GUIDE

JPG, PNG or WebP: which should you upload?

The best format is the one the destination accepts and that preserves the detail you need.

Choose the accepted format first

Read the upload instructions before converting. If the form only accepts JPG, a smaller WebP file still will not be accepted. If it accepts several types, compare a copy of your image in those formats and inspect the result.

JPG: a practical choice for photographs

JPG uses lossy compression: saving can discard visual information, especially at lower quality. It is widely accepted and often useful for photographs. JPG does not support transparency; this tool fills transparent or padded areas with white when producing a JPG.

PNG: useful for transparency and sharp graphics

PNG uses lossless compression and supports transparency. It can be useful for logos, screenshots and graphics with sharp edges, but a photo saved as PNG can be much larger than a JPG. Converting a previously compressed JPG to PNG does not restore lost detail.

WebP: another option when accepted

WebP supports transparency and can use lossy or lossless encoding. It is often smaller than alternatives, but results vary by image and encoder. Check the receiving site's instructions before choosing it; the general WebP format's capabilities do not guarantee a particular export is lossless.

The MDN image-format guide describes these formats in more detail.

Compare without losing your original

Keep your original file.
Choose a format the destination allows and set its maximum file size.
Download the result and inspect text, edges, colours and transparent areas at a useful viewing size.
If the form specifies exact pixels or a minimum size, check those as well.