What's the main difference between PNG and WebP?
Both support transparency, so the deciding factor is size and support. WebP is a newer format built for the web that compresses much smaller — lossy or lossless. PNG is older, always lossless, and supported everywhere. WebP wins on file size; PNG wins on universal compatibility.
PNG vs WebP at a glance
| Feature | PNG | WebP |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Lossless only | Lossy or lossless |
| Transparency | Yes | Yes |
| File size | Larger | 25–35% smaller |
| Support | Universal | All modern browsers |
| Best for | Editing, compatibility | Fast web images |
When should you use PNG?
Use PNG for lossless editing masters and anywhere a file must open in any program — older software, print workflows, and tools that don't yet read WebP. It's the safe, universal choice.
When should you use WebP?
Use WebP for images you publish on the web. The smaller files load faster and improve Core Web Vitals, while keeping the transparency you rely on with PNG. Learn more in what is WebP.
How do you convert between PNG and WebP?
Both run free in your browser: PNG to WebP shrinks images for the web while keeping transparency, and WebP to PNG gives you a universally compatible copy.
Frequently asked questions
- Which is smaller, PNG or WebP?
- WebP is usually 25–35% smaller than a comparable PNG, and often far smaller for photographic images, while still supporting transparency.
- Do PNG and WebP both support transparency?
- Yes. Both have a full alpha channel, so transparent areas are preserved when you convert between them.
- Is WebP replacing PNG?
- Not entirely. WebP is the better choice for web delivery, but PNG remains the standard for lossless editing masters and universal compatibility.
- Will I lose quality converting PNG to WebP?
- Only if you use lossy WebP, which trades a little detail for a smaller file. Lossless WebP keeps every pixel exactly.