PNG vs JPEG XL
Both can be lossless, but JPEG XL compresses better. Compare PNG and JPEG XL for graphics, screenshots and archival storage before you switch.
JPEG XL compresses lossless graphics smaller than PNG and adds modern features, while PNG remains the widely supported standard. Use JXL where support allows and PNG for broad sharing.
How it works
The short answer
Both can store lossless images, but JPEG XL compresses them smaller and adds modern features. PNG is the widely supported standard today, so it is the safe choice while JXL support grows. Use JXL for storage and workflows that handle it, PNG for anything shared broadly.
How PNG stores graphics
PNG is a lossless raster format that keeps every pixel of a graphic or screenshot exactly. It compresses flat color areas well, but photographic gradients and noise inflate the file. Its strength is that it works in every browser, editor and platform without question.
How JPEG XL compresses
JPEG XL is a modern format with a lossless mode that preserves every pixel while compressing more efficiently than PNG. It uses better prediction and coding techniques, so the same graphic or screenshot stores in a smaller file, saving storage and bandwidth.
The size difference
For the same lossless graphic, JPEG XL is typically 10 to 30 percent smaller than PNG, with larger gains on detailed images. Over a big archive of screenshots or UI assets, that saving adds up quickly. The tradeoff is compatibility rather than quality, since both are lossless.
Compatibility
PNG opens everywhere, which makes it the reliable choice for web use, email and sharing with anyone. JPEG XL support is still rolling out in browsers and tools, so a JXL file may not open on every device yet. Always have a PNG copy for distribution.
Extra JPEG XL features
Beyond size, JPEG XL brings modern conveniences such as progressive loading, better handling of very large images and a lossless recompression mode for existing JPGs. For most graphics work the practical day to day win is simply the smaller lossless file.
A practical rule
Keep PNG for anything you share broadly or that must open everywhere. Choose JPEG XL when you want the smallest lossless files and your tools support it. Store in JXL for archives, and convert back to PNG to distribute to the widest audience.
Format comparison
| Format | Compression | Transparency | Browser support | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PNG.png | Lossless (keeps every pixel) | Yes | All browsers and devices | Screenshots, logos, illustrations with sharp edges and transparency |
| JXL.jxl | Lossy (discards some detail) | Yes | n/a | Next-generation web images with the best compression (Chrome, Edge, Opera) |
Frequently asked questions
Is JPEG XL lossless?
Yes. JPEG XL supports a lossless mode that preserves every pixel, usually in a smaller file than the same PNG.
Is PNG or JPEG XL better?
JPEG XL is smaller for lossless graphics, but PNG is supported far more widely today, so the better choice depends on who must open the file.
Should I convert PNG to JPEG XL?
For storage or a JXL capable workflow, yes. Convert back to PNG to share with the widest audience.
How much smaller is JPEG XL than PNG?
Typically 10 to 30 percent smaller for the same lossless graphic, with bigger gains on detailed images and screenshots.