Image formats
What Is WebP? How It Compares with JPG and PNG
By Zipixel ·
WebP is an image format developed to deliver images efficiently on the web. It uses the .webp extension and supports lossy compression, lossless compression, transparent backgrounds, and animation.
WebP can store everything from photographs to transparent logos, making it an option worth comparing when reducing website image sizes. However, converting an image to WebP does not always make it smaller or improve its quality. Understanding the differences between WebP, JPG, and PNG helps you choose the right format.
This guide is available in Korean and English. 한국어 · English
WebP vs JPG vs PNG: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | WebP | JPG (JPEG) | PNG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compression | Supports lossy and lossless compression | Typically lossy | Lossless |
| Transparent backgrounds | Supported | Not supported | Supported |
| Photographs | Offers adjustable quality and file size | Widely used for photo compression and sharing | Preserves pixels but may produce large files |
| Text and graphics | Sharpness depends on compression settings | Compression artifacts may appear around edges | Useful for preserving sharp text and lines |
| File size | Depends on image content and encoding settings | Often efficient for photographs | Can be efficient for simple graphics |
| Compatibility | Supported by major modern browsers | Widely supported by software and upload services | Widely supported by software and upload services |
WebP supports several features in one format, but not every compression or conversion tool supports all of them. If you need lossless output or animation support, check the tool’s capabilities separately.
What Is the Difference Between Lossy and Lossless WebP?
Lossy WebP: Balancing Quality and File Size
Lossy compression reduces file size by discarding some image information. It can help balance visual quality and download size when preparing photographs for a website.
Heavy compression may blur fine textures or introduce visible artifacts around text and edges. Check the result at its intended display size, rather than judging it by file size alone.
Lossless WebP: Preserving Pixel Information
Lossless compression stores an image without losing pixel information. It is an option for graphics containing text or fine lines where preserving the original pixel appearance matters.
However, a .webp extension does not mean the file is lossless. The compression method depends on the encoding settings. Lossless conversion also cannot restore details already missing from the source image.
Does WebP Support Transparency and Animation?
WebP supports transparency with both lossy and lossless compression. It can store logos without backgrounds and graphics with translucent shadows. It also supports animation made up of multiple frames. See Google’s official WebP overview for details.
After converting a transparent image, inspect it against the background where it will appear. Edge issues that are difficult to notice on a light background may become visible on a dark one.
Animated WebP files require tools that support animation. A tool designed for still images may reject the file or fail to preserve its motion.
Why Use WebP on a Website?
Smaller image files reduce the amount of data visitors need to download. On photo-heavy blogs or product listing pages, reducing image sizes can help lower the page’s loading burden.
However, using WebP alone does not guarantee a specific speed improvement or higher search rankings. Page speed also depends on image dimensions and quantity, server response times, scripts, and loading behavior.
If a JPG or PNG is already small enough, reducing unnecessarily large pixel dimensions may be more useful than changing its format.
When Should You Choose WebP, JPG, or PNG?
| Situation | What to consider |
|---|---|
| Reducing the size of blog or product photos | Compare JPG and WebP exports at the same dimensions |
| Using a transparent logo or icon | Compare PNG with WebP that preserves transparency |
| Saving a screenshot with small text | Consider PNG or lossless WebP and check text sharpness |
| Uploading to a service that accepts only JPG or PNG | Use a format accepted by that service |
| Editing an animated WebP | Use a tool that can preserve the animation |
WebP is supported by major browsers, including Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge. Support in older applications or specific upload services should still be checked separately. See Google’s WebP support information.
Four Things to Check Before Compressing or Converting WebP
- Keep the original file. You may need it for future edits or exports to another format.
- Compare images at the same dimensions. Different pixel widths and heights make format comparisons less meaningful.
- Inspect text and edges. Check small lettering, thin lines, hair, and partially transparent edges.
- Check the upload requirements. Confirm accepted formats, file size limits, and whether transparency or animation will be preserved.
If compression produces little size reduction or a noticeable drop in quality, keep the existing file or try different settings.
How to Compress and Convert WebP with Zipixel
To adjust file size while keeping the WebP format, use the WebP image compressor and compare results at different quality settings.
If you need another format, the image format converter can convert static WebP images to JPG or PNG. Keep these tool limitations in mind:
- Static WebP images are supported. The dedicated WebP compression and image conversion pages detect and exclude animated WebP files.
- Lossless WebP output and preservation of original metadata are not guaranteed. Keep the original if camera information or other metadata matters.
- Transparent areas are filled with white when converting to JPG. Choose PNG output if you need to retain a transparent background.
After downloading the result, check its file size, image quality, and background appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WebP a Lossless Image Format?
WebP supports both lossy and lossless compression. The extension alone does not tell you which method was used. Check the file’s encoding method and the tool’s export settings.
Are WebP Files Always Smaller Than JPG or PNG?
No. Results depend on the image content, dimensions, and quality settings. Compare files exported at the same pixel dimensions, checking both file size and visible quality.
Can I Convert WebP to JPG or PNG?
Yes. Zipixel’s image format converter can convert static WebP files to JPG or PNG. JPG does not support transparency, so choose PNG if you need a transparent background.
Does Converting JPG to WebP Improve Image Quality?
No. Conversion cannot restore information already lost through JPG compression. Recompressing the image as lossy WebP may introduce additional quality loss.
What Should I Do If a WebP File Will Not Open?
Check whether your application supports WebP. If it does not, consider using a compatible conversion tool to export the image as JPG or PNG.
Can Zipixel Compress Animated WebP Files?
Zipixel’s dedicated WebP compression and image conversion pages exclude animated files. To preserve motion, use an editing tool that supports animated WebP.