GUIDE
Which Image Format Should You Use?
Choose an image format based on compatibility, quality, transparency and web use.
There is no single image format that is best for every situation. The right choice depends on what the image contains, where it will be used, which devices must open it, and whether file size or editing flexibility matters most.
| Format | Good fit | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| JPG | Photographs, broad compatibility, email and documents | Lossy compression and no transparency |
| PNG | Graphics, screenshots, transparency, lossless workflows | Often large for photographs |
| WebP | Modern websites and web delivery | Check older software or workflow compatibility |
| HEIC | Efficient photo storage on supported devices | Compatibility varies by application |
For ordinary photographs
JPG remains a practical choice when compatibility is more important than using the newest format. WebP can also work well for modern web delivery. HEIC is useful in supported device ecosystems, particularly for photo storage.
For screenshots and graphics
PNG is often a better fit when the image contains text, sharp interface elements, flat colors, or transparency. JPG compression can introduce visible artifacts around crisp edges and small text.
For a website
Consider WebP when your publishing stack and target browsers support it. The important part is not simply choosing a newer extension; it is delivering an image that is visually acceptable at a sensible pixel size. A huge WebP can still be inefficient.
For sharing with unknown recipients
JPG is usually the least surprising option for photographs because many systems recognize it. If a recipient specifically asks for PNG, follow that requirement instead of converting repeatedly between formats.
For an iPhone photo that a website rejects
Convert the HEIC to JPG and keep the original. The HEIC to JPG converter is intended for exactly this compatibility workflow.
A simple decision rule
- Photo + broad compatibility: JPG.
- Graphic or transparency: PNG.
- Modern web delivery: WebP.
- Supported Apple photo workflow: HEIC.
These are practical defaults rather than hard rules. The destination's accepted formats and the actual image content should determine the final choice.