With lossy compression, some information is discarded when the image is created in an attempt to get the file size down to a more reasonable level. JPEGs can be compressed to particularly high ratios, which is great from the perspective of storage, but it’s the nature of the compression – known as ‘lossy’ compression – that can create problems. But t o get these efficient file sizes, JPEGs have to be compressed. If you’re ever asked to supply an image online, or when applying for an official document, a JPEG will usually be appropriate.įile sizes are usually small enough for such images to be shared and posted online without any issues with speed and performance. It was designed specifically for photographs of real-world subjects, also known as ‘continuous-tone’ images, rather than graphics or illustrations, and it’s supported by all kinds of devices, displays, and web browsers. The JPEG is the most widely used image file format online, and the default file type for images from most smartphones and dedicated cameras. Easily embedded using with support for thumbnails on social media and in search engines. Interactive image format designed for optimum presentation and security online, and perfect for graphics that don’t require the preservation of transparency channels. Limited support outside of Apple’s ecosystem. Designed to produce images with the quality of JPEGs but with more efficient compression. Ideal for saving an image with layered edits, but images must be converted to another format before being displayed online.Īpple’s proprietary format for images captured using iPhone and iPad devices running iOS 11 or later. Can be saved with or without lossy compression, although file sizes are larger than those of equivalent JPEGs, which makes it less ideal for online display. Great where maximum image quality is required and for archiving. Not as efficient as JPEG and not designed for real-world images, but a good choice for photograph/graphics composites. Can preserve transparency layers, unlike most other formats. Compression artefacts can be an issue, however, and it’s not ideal for graphics.ĭesigned for graphics and widely supported online. Widely supported and used online, with small file sizes making it very efficient. Best file formats: At a glance JPEG (.jpeg) In this article, we’ll run through the main image formats used today, and explain their pros and cons, before we take a look at the things you should bear in mind when converting an image from one format to another. This also affects load times for your website’s pages, which has a knock-on effect on both user experience and SEO. Understanding file formats means understanding files sizes, which helps you to send and store images efficiently. Furthermore, some files support certain features that allow them to be displayed correctly, or edited at a later date, while others may not.Īnother important reason concerns efficiency. It’s also important as some image types aren’t as widely supported as others, and so they won’t be usable or viewable everywhere. Whether an image is just for yourself or destined to be seen by others, you’ll clearly want it to look as good as possible – particularly if it’s designed to represent your brand. Why do image formats matter?Īt a basic level, understanding image formats helps you to maintain image quality. We take a picture on our smartphones or cameras, and perhaps post it online, and then we simply keep it on a computer, hard drive, or in the cloud for safekeeping.īut when it comes to uploading images online, using graphics, or archiving our creations, it pays to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the different formats available, and the kinds of images for which they may have been specifically designed. Most of us don’t need to concern ourselves too greatly with image file formats. Which image file format is best for photos and graphics? And what do you need to know when converting from one to another? Learn about image types and conversion in our complete guide to image file formats.
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