What is png?
PNG stands for Portable Network Graphics. It is a file format used to store digital images. Unlike JPEG, PNG uses lossless compression, which means the image retains all its original detail and quality when it is saved.
Let's break it down
- Lossless compression: PNG reduces file size without throwing away any picture data.
- Transparency support: PNG can store an alpha channel, allowing parts of the image to be see‑through.
- Color depth: It can handle from 1‑bit (black & white) up to 48‑bit color, plus 16‑bit transparency.
- File extension: Images are saved with the “.png” suffix.
- No animation (standard PNG): The basic PNG format does not support moving pictures (though a variant called APNG does).
Why does it matter?
Because PNG keeps every pixel perfect, it’s ideal when you need crisp graphics, logos, or images with clear edges. The ability to have transparent backgrounds makes it perfect for layering images on websites or apps without ugly white boxes.
Where is it used?
- Website icons, buttons, and logos
- Screenshots and UI mock‑ups
- Images that need transparency (e.g., overlay graphics)
- Graphics for print when exact color fidelity is required
- Game assets and software interfaces
Good things about it
- No quality loss, even after multiple edits and saves
- Supports full transparency (alpha channel)
- Works on virtually every device and browser
- Handles a wide range of colors and bit depths
- Simple to create and edit with most image editors
Not-so-good things
- Larger file sizes than JPEG for complex photos, which can slow page loading
- No built‑in animation (standard PNG)
- Not the best choice for printing large, photo‑rich images where file size matters
- Some older software may have limited support for high‑bit‑depth PNGs.