Updated July 1, 2026
Image formats reference
Every raster format trades quality, file size, and features differently. This sheet summarizes the common web formats so you can pick the right one, then convert locally.
Common formats
| Format | Compression | Transparency | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
JPG | Lossy | No | Photographs, large images where size matters |
PNG | Lossless | Yes | Screenshots, logos, line art, transparency |
WebP | Lossy or lossless | Yes | Web photos and graphics at smaller size than JPG/PNG |
AVIF | Lossy or lossless | Yes | Best compression for the web, if support is guaranteed |
GIF | Lossless (256 colors) | 1-bit (on/off) | Simple animations, tiny flat graphics (legacy) |
SVG | Vector (text) | Yes | Icons, logos, illustrations that scale to any size |
Raster vs vectorPNG, JPG, WebP, AVIF, and GIF are raster (a grid of pixels) and blur when enlarged past their resolution.
SVG is vector (math describing shapes) and stays sharp at any size, which is why it suits icons and logos.Lossy re-savingRe-saving a lossy format (JPG, lossy WebP/AVIF) compresses it again each time and loses detail. Keep a lossless master (PNG or the original) if you will edit repeatedly.
References
Questions
Which image format is smallest?
For photos, AVIF is usually the smallest, followed by WebP, then JPG. PNG is the largest for photos because it is lossless. The best choice balances size against how widely the format is supported.
Which formats support transparency?
PNG, WebP, AVIF, and SVG support full alpha transparency. GIF supports only on/off transparency. JPG has no transparency at all.