JPG vs WebP: File Size and Quality Comparison
JPG has been the default format for web photographs since the early internet. WebP offers significantly better compression, producing smaller files at the same visual quality. This comparison examines the practical differences for everyday image work.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | JPG | WebP |
|---|---|---|
| Photo File Size | Baseline | 25-35% smaller |
| Visual Quality | Good | Equal or better |
| Transparency | No | Yes |
| Compatibility | Everything | Modern browsers |
JPG Pros
- +Works everywhere
- +All software supports it
JPG Cons
- -Larger files
- -No transparency
WebP Pros
- +Smaller files
- +Transparency
- +Better quality per byte
WebP Cons
- -Some legacy incompatibility
When to Use JPG
Use JPG for maximum compatibility, email, and legacy systems.
When to Use WebP
Use WebP for websites, apps, and anywhere modern browser support is guaranteed.