Use WebP for modern image delivery
WebP is built for web delivery. It can handle photographic images, graphics, and transparency while often producing smaller files than JPG or PNG at comparable visible quality.
Modern browser support is strong, but some older tools, desktop applications, and upload forms still prefer JPG or PNG. Keep a source or fallback version when compatibility matters.
- Use WebP for responsive website images and thumbnails.
- Keep JPG or PNG copies for legacy tools and non-web workflows.
- Test the final page with real device widths before replacing every image.
Compression and quality
WebP supports lossy and lossless modes. Lossy WebP is useful for photos and mixed graphics, while lossless WebP can preserve transparent logos and UI assets with smaller delivery size than PNG.
The best setting depends on the image. A product photo, a screenshot, and a transparent icon should not all use the same quality target.
WebP conversion choices
Convert JPG to WebP to reduce photo delivery size. Convert PNG to WebP when you need smaller graphics while keeping transparency. Convert WebP back to JPG or PNG when an editor or upload form does not accept WebP.
Use fallback formats in HTML or your CMS when your audience includes old browsers or external systems with strict file-type rules.