PNG vs WebP: Which format should you use?

Use WebP for most web images when you want smaller files and faster load times. Use PNG when you need pixel-perfect lossless assets in older workflows or specialized tooling.

Quick answer

• Photos and UI screenshots: WebP is usually best due to much smaller file size.
• Graphics with transparency: Both support alpha; WebP often compresses better.
• Maximum compatibility with legacy tools: PNG can still be the safer fallback.

Why WebP usually wins on the web

WebP supports both lossy and lossless compression, and in many real-world cases it produces files that are significantly smaller than PNG. Smaller images improve page speed, especially on mobile connections.

When PNG is still a good choice

PNG remains useful when your pipeline requires strict lossless files, when a design system depends on existing PNG assets, or when team tooling is built around PNG-first exports.

Best practice for production websites

• Default to WebP for delivery.
• Keep source originals in your design workflow.
• Measure quality at multiple compression levels and pick the smallest acceptable output.
• Automate optimization in your release process.