WebP and JPEG are both widely used image formats, but they are designed for slightly different needs. WebP can often reduce file size while supporting features such as transparency and animation. JPEG remains a practical choice when broad compatibility with older software, devices, or sharing workflows matters most.
This guide explains the main differences between WebP and JPEG, how to choose the right format for a website or shared image, and what to check before converting important files.
WebP vs JPEG at a Glance
| Feature | JPEG | WebP |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Lossy image compression | Supports lossy and lossless compression |
| File size | Can be efficient for photographs | Can often produce smaller files at comparable visual quality |
| Transparency | Not supported | Supported |
| Animation | Not supported | Supported |
| Browser support | Very broad support across browsers and software | Supported by current major browsers; older software or devices may vary |
| Common use | Sharing photos and compatibility-focused workflows | Website images and modern browser-based workflows |
What JPEG Is
JPEG is a long-established image format commonly used for photographs and images with many colours or smooth gradients. It uses lossy compression, which reduces file size by removing some image information. The visible result depends on the source image and selected quality setting.
JPEG does not support transparent backgrounds. For a logo, icon, or graphic that needs transparency, use a format such as PNG or WebP instead.
What WebP Is
WebP is an image format introduced by Google for web use. It supports lossy compression, lossless compression, transparency, and animation in one format.
For many images, WebP can reduce file size compared with JPEG or PNG while maintaining a similar visual appearance. The amount of savings is not fixed: it depends on the image content, source format, quality setting, compression method, and whether transparency is required.
WebP is often useful for website images because smaller files can reduce the amount of image data a visitor needs to download.
How to Compare WebP and JPEG for Your Own Images
The best format depends on the image you are working with. A detailed photograph, screenshot, logo, transparent graphic, and illustration can produce different results.
Create a WebP and JPEG version of the same image using similar quality settings. Then compare:
- File size
- Visual sharpness at the size used on your page
- Text clarity in screenshots or graphics
- Transparency requirements
- Compatibility with the devices, apps, or platforms where the image will be used
Keep the original source file. Avoid repeatedly converting a lossy image between formats, because each new lossy conversion can reduce quality.
Browser and Software Compatibility
Current versions of major web browsers support WebP, including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, and many mobile browsers. However, compatibility can vary in older browsers, older operating systems, desktop applications, email clients, messaging apps, and specialised software.
For website delivery, you can provide a fallback image when support for older environments matters. The HTML picture element allows a browser to use WebP when supported and fall back to JPEG or PNG when needed. Check current browser compatibility before relying on a format for an important audience.
When JPEG Can Still Be the Better Choice
JPEG remains useful when you need to share an image with people who may use older software, older devices, or applications that do not reliably handle WebP. It is also commonly accepted by many upload forms, email workflows, photo viewers, and print-related tools.
For website images, WebP may be a good option when your audience uses modern browsers and you have tested the result. For sharing outside the web, JPEG can be the safer compatibility choice.
How to Convert Images to WebP
- Open the Image Compressor or image-conversion tool
- Upload a supported image file
- Select WebP if the tool provides an output-format option
- Choose an available quality or compression setting
- Create the converted image and download it
- Compare the new file with the original before replacing an important image
Review the relevant tool page for current supported input formats, output formats, file-size limits, and processing details.
Convert Images for the Web
Use the Image Compressor to create a smaller image file or convert a supported image to WebP. Review the tool page and Privacy Policy for current processing details, supported formats, and file limits.
Open Image CompressorCommon Questions About WebP vs JPEG
Can I convert WebP back to JPEG?
Yes, if your conversion tool supports WebP input and JPEG output. Converting a lossy WebP file back to JPEG does not restore image information that was removed during earlier compression. Keep the original source file whenever possible.
Does WebP work in WordPress?
Modern versions of WordPress support WebP uploads, but support can also depend on the hosting environment, theme, plugins, and image-processing configuration. Test an upload and confirm that the image displays correctly on your site.
Is WebP suitable for printing?
WebP can be opened or converted in many modern tools, but print workflows often have their own file-format and colour requirements. For important printing, keep a high-quality original file and ask the printer or print service which format, dimensions, resolution, and colour profile they require.
What about AVIF?
AVIF is another modern image format that can produce small files at good visual quality. Its results and compatibility should be tested for your specific images and audience. WebP remains a practical option for many websites because it is supported by current major browsers and widely available in web-image tools.