• 1 min read

AVIF vs PNG vs WebP: Which Should You Use?

Quick decisions

  • Logos/icons/stickers with transparency → PNG
  • Large photos for the web (speed matters) → AVIF (or WebP)
  • Older apps/environments → PNG

Scenario-based advice

  • Brand assets (logos, UI icons, stickers) → PNG for sharp edges and predictable transparency.
  • Product/hero photos for websites → AVIF/WebP for smaller files; export a PNG only when you need to edit precisely.
  • Office/print → PNG is safe. (If no transparency is needed, high-quality JPEG can also work.)
  • Social posts → Check the platform. If only uploading, AVIF/WebP can be smaller; if you'll compose or edit, PNG is simpler.

Mini decision tree

  1. Do you need transparency?
    • Yes → PNG
    • No → continue
  2. Only for web, and your audience uses modern devices?
    • Yes → AVIF or WebP
    • No → PNG
  3. Will you keep editing the image?
    • Yes → PNG
    • No → stay with the smaller format

"Should I convert AVIF to PNG?"

  • Convert if you need transparency overlays, precise editing, or an app can't open AVIF.
  • Don't convert if it's only for web viewing and file size matters more (AVIF/WebP are smaller).

FAQ

Q: Is PNG "highest quality"?
A: PNG is lossless and ideal for logos/text/line art. But converting a lossy photo to PNG won't "improve" it.

Q: Can I go from PNG back to AVIF/WebP?
A: Yes. If you choose a lossy export, you may introduce compression artifacts. Pick settings carefully.

Q: Why does AVIF color look odd in my app?
A: Color management differs across apps/devices. Judge color in the final platform.
If needed, convert the source to sRGB and re-export.