This is a loaded question! Unfortunately, there is no definitive winner, but rather it depends on what you’re using it for. In this article we will break down each one. Additionally, I’ll supply you with useful tips and info regarding the strengths and weaknesses of a JPG file.
The JPG
Most people automatically gravitate to using the JPG format. This is the most widely adopted file format out there. The file has been around since the 1980s. Most cameras and phone cameras will automatically save to this format during picture taking.
Pros
The JPG is able to be read on all browsers and digital devices (computers, tablets, phones, and graphic and word programs). Furthermore, they are easily printable at high resolution, because they don’t need to be converted. Additionally, JPG boasts being very space saving in the storage department, due to the lossy compression. In other words, it gets rid of information it doesn’t need. Henceforth, they are best used for photos that don’t focus on text. For example, still life photos, real world photos, powerful colors, and images with a wide range of different lighting. This space saving ability also allows them to load much more quickly on a website than other file formats.
Best Usage Examples
Some examples of places to use a JPG would maybe be the about staff page on a dental office website. The profile pictures would be uploaded as JPG. Another example for good JPG usage is for product stock photos, like produce for a grocery store, or catalogs for online retailers. Lastly, background images for your website would be an effective option.
Cons
Unfortunately, some of the positives that JPG has going for it, also creates some negatives depending on the situation. One of the big negatives is that it’s small size comes with a price. Therefore, each time you make a change, save, or copy the file, the lossy compression gets rid of information. This causes data loss. If performed several times, the picture will become blurry. Artifacts will begin to appear as well. It is not advisable to use a JPG that contains text information, unless the image is saved at a very high resolution. Furthermore, JPG files don’t offer transparency. This can be problematic for images like logos.
Sum It Up
The JPG can be a very resourceful file format in most situations. It’s small size, readability, and ease of use make it an excellent choice. Best used with images not containing text and uploaded on websites. The downside to JPG is data loss by compression and no transparency. So if you are satisfied with your image, and don’t need to edit it any further, then a JPG would be appropriate to use. I hope you found this article helpful. Comment and let me know your thoughts, questions, and ideas for future articles. Also keep checking back for more upcoming articles about file types!
