PNG vs WebP: Which Should You Use?
PNG is great for screenshots and transparency; WebP is usually smaller for the web. Here's how to choose and when to convert.
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PNG and WebP can both look excellent, but they are optimized for different outcomes.
- PNG is a safe default for screenshots, UI, and images that need transparency.
- WebP is often the better choice for websites because it can be much smaller at similar quality.
If your goal is a smaller web image, start here: PNG to WebP.
The quick rule of thumb
- Use PNG when the image has crisp text, sharp edges, or needs transparency for design work.
- Use WebP when the image is going on the web and you care about page speed.
There are exceptions, but this gets you the right answer most of the time.
Compatibility: what your audience can actually open
PNG is supported basically everywhere.
WebP is supported in modern browsers, but there are still workflows where it can be annoying (older editors, some upload tools, and some “download and open” situations).
If you are sending files directly to people or uploading to unknown systems, PNG is safer. If you are publishing on your own website and can control delivery, WebP is usually worth it.
Why WebP often wins for the web
WebP is a modern image format designed for web delivery. In practice, it often provides:
- Smaller files for similar visual quality
- Optional lossless mode (useful for graphics)
- Transparency support (like PNG)
If your site performance matters, WebP is usually worth trying.
Lossless vs lossy: a practical way to pick
When people say “WebP”, they often mean two different things:
- Lossless WebP: ideal for UI, text, logos, and transparency-heavy graphics.
- Lossy WebP: ideal for photos where you want smaller files.
If you are converting a PNG that contains text or sharp edges, start with lossless WebP.
When PNG is still the right call
PNG remains a great choice for:
- Screenshots with small text
- UI assets you will edit repeatedly
- Logos and flat graphics
- “Source” assets where you do not want lossy artifacts
If you convert PNG to WebP and the result looks slightly worse around text, switch to lossless WebP or keep PNG.
How to convert PNG to WebP (private, no uploads)
- Open: PNG to WebP
- Drop in your PNG file(s).
- Choose WebP settings:
- Use lossless for UI/graphics
- Use quality for photos
- Convert and download.
QuickImager runs locally in your browser, so your files are not uploaded.
A simple workflow (design to web)
If you’re working with designers or source assets, a clean workflow is:
- Keep source assets as PNG (or SVG where possible).
- Export to WebP for the website: PNG to WebP
- Keep PNG as a fallback if you need a “download and open” file for clients.
Related conversions
- Need PNG again for editing? WebP to PNG
- Converting photos? JPG to WebP
- Comparing next-gen formats? AVIF vs WebP
FAQ
- Should I replace every PNG with WebP? Start with the biggest assets first. For tiny icons, savings can be small.
- Will WebP keep transparency? Yes. WebP supports transparency.
- Is this private? Yes. QuickImager converts locally with no uploads.
If you want the simplest next step: Convert PNG to WebP.
Convert now (private, no uploads)
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