BMP vs PNG: what's the difference?
Short answer: PNG stores the same pixels as BMP in a fraction of the space. Only use BMP when a program specifically requires it.
| BMP | PNG | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Bitmap Image File | Portable Network Graphics |
| File extensions | .bmp, .dib | .png |
| MIME type | image/bmp | image/png |
| Introduced | 1990 | 1996 |
| Compression | None (uncompressed) | Lossless |
| Transparency | Rarely supported | Yes (full alpha) |
| Animation | No | APNG only |
| Typical file size | Huge | Large |
| Best for | legacy Windows software, embedded devices and some printers | screenshots, logos, graphics with text and anything that needs a transparent background |
| Compatibility | Windows apps and most editors; inefficient for the web | Universal: every browser, OS and editor |
File size
PNG is typically 50-90% smaller than BMP because BMP is uncompressed.
Image quality
Identical: both are lossless.
Transparency and animation
BMP: transparency rarely supported, animation no. PNG: transparency yes (full alpha), animation apng only.
Compatibility
BMP: Windows apps and most editors; inefficient for the web.
PNG: Universal: every browser, OS and editor.
When to use BMP
- Legacy Windows programs, label printers and microcontrollers
When to use PNG
- Everything else
Convert between BMP and PNG
Frequently asked questions
Is BMP better than PNG?
PNG stores the same pixels as BMP in a fraction of the space. Only use BMP when a program specifically requires it.
Which is smaller, BMP or PNG?
PNG is typically 50-90% smaller than BMP because BMP is uncompressed.
Which has better quality, BMP or PNG?
Identical: both are lossless.
How do I convert BMP to PNG?
Open the free BMP to PNG converter, add your files and download the results. It runs in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.