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Definition
PNG (Portable Network Graphics) is a lossless raster image format that supports transparency. It was created as a patent-free replacement for GIF. PNG is widely used for graphics, screenshots, and images where preserving exact pixel data and transparency is important.
PNG was developed in 1996 as an open alternative to the GIF format, which was encumbered by LZW compression patents at the time. Unlike JPEG, PNG uses lossless compression — every pixel is preserved exactly, with no compression artifacts. This makes PNG ideal for screenshots, text-heavy images, graphics with sharp edges, and any image where quality degradation is unacceptable.
PNG supports full alpha channel transparency, allowing smooth, anti-aliased edges against any background. This is critical for logos, icons, and overlays in web design. PNG also supports 24-bit (16.7 million colors) and 48-bit color, as well as 8-bit palette mode for smaller file sizes on simple graphics.
The main drawback of PNG is file size — lossless compression produces larger files than lossy formats like JPEG or WebP for photographic content. A typical photo saved as PNG may be 5-10 times larger than the same image as a JPEG. For photos on the web, WebP or JPEG are better choices; PNG remains the go-to for screenshots, illustrations, and images requiring transparency.