JPG vs PNG vs WEBP: which picture format should you use?
When to use JPG, PNG or WEBP for photos, screenshots, signatures, logos and websites — explained simply, with file size examples.
JPG (or JPEG)
Best for photos. It makes files small by dropping detail you barely see. Almost every form asks for JPG. JPG and JPEG are the same format — only the name is different.
PNG
Keeps every pixel exactly (no quality loss) and supports a transparent background. Best for screenshots, logos, text graphics and a signature with no background. PNG photos are much bigger than JPG.
WEBP
A newer format from Google: about 25–35% smaller than JPG at the same quality, and it can be transparent. Great for websites — but many government forms do not accept it yet.
Quick rule
- Form upload → JPG.
- Logo or picture with a clear background → PNG.
- Your own website → WEBP.
- Screenshot with text → PNG.