JPG vs WebP: which should you use?
Both are lossy formats built for photos, but they don't produce the same result at the same file size. Here's the actual difference and when it matters.
The short answer
Use WebP by default. Its compression is newer and generally more efficient than JPG's, so it can hold more visual detail at the same file size, or an equal amount of detail in a smaller file. Reach for JPG specifically when you know the destination requires it.
Where JPG still wins
Compatibility. JPG has been the default photo format since the 1990s, and virtually every piece of software, printer, and upload form built since then accepts it without question. Some older desktop software and print workflows still don't recognize WebP at all. If you're not sure what a form expects, JPG is the safer bet.
Where WebP wins
Everywhere the file just needs to be small and look good: websites, social sharing, messaging apps, and any modern upload form. WebP also supports transparency, which JPG cannot do at all, so it can replace PNG in cases where you need a see-through background but PNG's file size is too heavy.
What Automatic mode does
When you leave format on Automatic, this tool always encodes to WebP, since it covers both photos and transparent images well and reliably produces the smallest file. Switch to JPG or PNG manually under Advanced options if you specifically need one of those.
Ready to try it?
Try compressing to WebP →