PNG vs JPG: What’s Best For Your E-Commerce Products?

PNG vs JPG What's Best For Your E-Commerce Products

When you plan to upload images of e-commerce products to your website, selecting the appropriate file format is crucial. You may already be familiar with PNG and JPG formats, as they are the most commonly used types today. If you’re wondering which format is best for e-commerce products between PNG and JPG, then check this out!

About PNG

Before delving into the PNG vs JPG comparison, it would be beneficial to understand the definition of both formats. Let’s start by understanding what PNG is. PNG stands for Portable Network Graphics and is a lossless file format specifically designed as an open alternative to the Graphics Interchange Format (GIF).

In the compression process, PNG does not compromise the image quality, even if you compress it extensively. This is why PNG is considered the ideal format for images containing graphics, edges, lines, drawings, and text, such as logos and screenshots.PNG utilizes the LZW compression process.

In simple terms, LZW compression is a two-string compression technique that takes various strings and data fragments from an image and matches them with the codes stored in a dictionary within the image file. This compression process ensures that PNG images maintain their high-quality appearance, even when compressed to a smaller size multiple times.

Pros of PNG

  • PNG is a file format that utilizes the LZW compression process, guaranteeing high photo quality and sharp graphics.
  • This type of file format is perfect for images that have a lot of graphics, lines, and text.
  • Ideal for a transparent background.

Cons of PNG

  • Large image size than other file format types.
  • Much longer image compression process, depending on the program or file.
  • You don’t get access to any native EXIF support.

About JPG

The next part of this PNG vs JPG review focuses on the definition of JPG. JPG, in its application, has been one of the standard file formats that have been around for a long time. This file format was initially developed by the Joint Photographic Experts Group in 1992, hence the name JPG, also known as JPEG.

Moreover, this file format for images is widely used in various types of online images today. You will often come across the JPG file format on social media, website images, or images on the Google search page. The reason why this file format is so popular is its ability to strike a balance between file size and image quality.

Unlike PNG, which uses the LZW compression process, JPG employs the DCT compression process. This compression process utilizes an algorithm that scans the image, identifies similar pixels, and combines them, resulting in good image quality at a smaller size. Unfortunately, once you have compressed a JPG image, you cannot restore it to its original format before compression. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid using this file format for images that contain graphics, lines, and a significant amount of text.

Pros of JPG

  • Small image file size, suitable for saving storage space.
  • You get integrated EXIF support.
  • Compatible with various photo viewers, editing tools, and devices.

Cons of JPG

  • You will lose the original formatting and cannot restore it once you have compressed it.
  • Not suitable for CMYK printing.

Limitation of Size on PNG vs JPG

When comparing PNG vs JPG and deciding which one is best for e-commerce products, it’s important to be aware of their size limitations. PNG files tend to have a larger size as they don’t compress the image file as much.

On the other hand, JPG files compress the file size up to 10% of the original file size, making them more space-efficient.

What are the Differences Between PNG and JPG?

You already know the definitions of PNG and JPG. Now, let’s explore the differences between them and determine the best format for sharing photos of e-commerce products. Here are the key differences between PNG and JPG:

1. Compression Process

The first major difference between PNG and JPG is the compression process they use. As mentioned earlier, PNG utilizes the LZW compression process, while JPG utilizes the DCT compression process. These two processes result in different image quality outcomes.

PNG, with its LZW compression process, can maintain the same image quality as the original even after multiple compression cycles. In contrast, JPG, with its DCT compression process, can achieve a reasonable image quality with a significantly smaller file size.

2. Transparent Background

The next difference between PNG and JPG is in terms of file size. When you are considering uploading images to your website, it is important to take the file size into account.

If you intend to upload images with the smallest file size to optimize the space on your website, JPG is the ideal choice. You can also enhance the quality of your JPG images by using photo retouching services.

On the other hand, PNG, which uses the LZW compression process, generally results in larger file sizes compared to JPG. Therefore, it is not highly recommended to use multiple PNG-formatted images on websites or devices where file size is a concern.

3. File Size

The final distinction between PNG and JPG is the transparency feature. Generally, the JPG file format does not support transparent backgrounds. Therefore, if you require images with transparent backgrounds, it is advisable to choose and use images in the PNG format.

These are the three main differences that set PNG and JPG apart. Indeed, both file formats have their own advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different needs and preferences.

In summary, PNG is a file format that is well-suited for editing graphics, drawings, and printouts. It is particularly effective in creating background effects and supports transparent backgrounds. On the other hand, JPG is the most suitable file format for uploading images on websites.

Which is Better, PNG vs JPG for E-Commerce Products?

In the end, the answer to the question above depends on various factors. Neither PNG nor JPG is inherently better; it all depends on your specific needs. You have the option to use either PNG or JPG for your e-commerce products.

However, in general, images in JPG format are considered best for e-commerce products. That being said, PNG, with its high image quality, is also suitable for those who wish to upload product photos in the form of graphics or screenshots on their brand’s website.

It is important to consider the balance between image quality, file size, and website performance before choosing between PNG and JPG for e-commerce products. Once you have chosen the appropriate image file format that suits your needs, you can immediately use it for your e-commerce products.

Additionally, you can utilize the photo editing services provided by Dropicts to enhance the visual appeal of your product images in e-commerce. The professional team at Dropicts will assist and help you in photo editing.

FAQ

  • Is PNG better quality than JPEG or JPG?
    Yep. Image quality is one of PNG’s advantages over JPG. Besides having high image quality, PNG also has detailed and high-contrast images as well.
  • Should I use JPG or PNG?
    It all depends on your needs. JPG is a file format that is suitable for photographs and the use of images on websites. On the other hand, PNG is perfect for graphics, images with transparent backgrounds, screenshots, and more.
  • Is JPG or PNG better for websites?
    Both are file formats that are equally suitable for websites. However, if you want a fast-loading compressed image, JPG is the best choice. On the other hand, if you want a high-quality and clear image, then PNG is the answer.
  • Does JPG load faster than PNG?
    Generally, JPG has a lower image quality than PNG. Therefore, JPG can load faster than PNG which has a higher image quality.

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