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PNG to JPG: When to Convert (and When Not To)

PNG preserves transparency; JPG saves file size. Here's how to pick, and how to convert when JPG is the right call.

3 min read

Open PNG → JPG

PNG and JPG solve different problems. PNG is lossless and supports transparency. JPG is lossy but produces much smaller files for photographs.

Keep it as PNG when...

Your image is a logo, icon, screenshot, or anything with sharp text or transparent background. JPG smears sharp edges and can't handle transparency.

Convert to JPG when...

Your image is a photograph and file size matters (email, upload forms, website). JPG can be 5–10× smaller with no visible quality loss on screen.

FAQ

Do I lose transparency?

Yes. JPG doesn't support transparency — transparent areas become white during conversion.

Will screenshots look bad?

Screenshots with text or UI edges look worse as JPG. Keep those as PNG.

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