JPG vs WebP: what's the difference?
Short answer: WebP gives the same visual quality as JPG in smaller files and is ideal for websites. JPG remains the safest choice for sharing.
| JPG | WebP | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) | WebP (Google) |
| File extensions | .jpg, .jpeg, .jpe | .webp |
| MIME type | image/jpeg | image/webp |
| Introduced | 1992 | 2010 |
| Compression | Lossy | Lossy and lossless |
| Transparency | No | Yes (full alpha) |
| Animation | No | Yes |
| Typical file size | Small | Very small |
| Best for | photographs, social media uploads and email attachments | websites, because it is 25-35% smaller than JPG at the same quality |
| Compatibility | Universal: every browser, phone, camera and image editor | All modern browsers; some older desktop apps and upload forms still reject it |
File size
WebP is typically 25-35% smaller than a JPG of the same visual quality.
Image quality
At equal file size WebP looks a little better, especially at low bitrates where JPG shows blocky artefacts.
Transparency and animation
JPG: transparency no, animation no. WebP: transparency yes (full alpha), animation yes.
Compatibility
JPG: Universal: every browser, phone, camera and image editor.
WebP: All modern browsers; some older desktop apps and upload forms still reject it.
When to use JPG
- Email attachments and upload forms
- Printing
- Old software and devices
When to use WebP
- Website images and Core Web Vitals
- Images that need transparency
- Large photo galleries
Convert between JPG and WebP
Frequently asked questions
Is JPG better than WebP?
WebP gives the same visual quality as JPG in smaller files and is ideal for websites. JPG remains the safest choice for sharing.
Which is smaller, JPG or WebP?
WebP is typically 25-35% smaller than a JPG of the same visual quality.
Which has better quality, JPG or WebP?
At equal file size WebP looks a little better, especially at low bitrates where JPG shows blocky artefacts.
How do I convert JPG to WebP?
Open the free JPG to WebP converter, add your files and download the results. It runs in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.