There is no one-size-fits-all for image file formats. With multiple options to save or export your images, the decision is much more complex.
As you know, JPEG and PNG both are the most common type of image format to store images. Do you know the difference between them? This post will explain when to use them and why, which helps you find the most suitable one for a specific scenario!
What is JPG?
JPEG stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group and uses .jpeg or .jpg extension.
Those images are used in photography and were mainly created for making large photographic files smaller, so the images could be more easily shared.
It uses lossy compression algorithms, certain unnecessary information is permanently deleted. Some quality is compromised when an image is converted to a JPG. However, it allows you to create a smaller file size than you could with a PNG.
That’s why JPEG provides relatively low quality images — compared to PNG.
For the same image, if you save it as JPEG, the image size is generally smaller than PNG. Also, JPEG does not support transparency in images.
The Pros of using JPEG/JPG files
- 24-bit color scheme
- Best image file format for compression
- Most common file format used in the photography industry
- Ideal for high-quality, highly detailed photographic images
The Cons of using JPEG/JPG files
- Not the best file format for digital art (logos, icons, etc.)
- Does not support transparency, making the image background more difficult to remove or replace if needed
- May compromise on image quality
What is PNG
PNG stands for Portable Network Graphics. PNG images are gene and use .png extension. It was created to act as a replacement for the Graphics Interchange Format (GIF). Limitations of the GIF prompted the creation and prevalence of the PNG.
PNG uses a lossless compression algorithm and no image data loss is present in PNG format. In a word, It provides higher quality of images and supports transparency in images.
It allows you to have a transparent background around an irregular-shaped object and avoid a white (or other colored) box outlining your image.
The Pros of using PNG file types
- Ideal file type for digital art
- Incorporates a “lossless” compression for ensured file quality
- 24-bit color (similar to JPEG) which supports over 16 million colors
The Cons of using PNG file types
✓ The largest files in the image file types
✓ Not ideal for photographic images
After having a basic knowledge of two formats. What should we consider before choosing a format to save my images?
There are two main questions to ask yourself when you decide which image file format to use. The answers to these questions will help guide you to select your optimal file type.
First: Type of image
Is it for some casual purpose or professional? Will you need to resize or alter it later?
Second: Usage of image
Will it be published on the company website or for your own personal use?
A JPG should be used in the below situations
- Important to have a small file
Beyond the initial saving as a JPG, there are tools that will allow you to shrink the file further - For web images, smaller size will increase the speed at which the page loads
JPG or PNG?
No right or wrong answer for this question! Thinking about the usage of the picture may guide you to the right decision.
On MTB, we highly recommend you to use PNG. A higher quality of image, a better outcome to show your masterpiece!
1.Choose a pattern
- Upload an image with a transparent background. If you are using AI, export it as a PNG.
2.Choose a background color
Click ‘Manage Layers‘
P.S: Don’t forget the back side and you can choose different color & pattern for it!
