​jpg vs png: which file format do you usually use when a transparent background is not necessary?

1234Shine
Contributor II
When you don't need the transparent background, do you have a preference between jpg and png, and why?
 
Also, is the print quality different between jpg and png?​
 
Thank you!
13 REPLIES 13

idraw
Honored Contributor

@1234Shine 
jpg vs png--
PNG is a high-quality graphics format – generally higher in quality than JPEGs, which are compressed to save space. The PNG format uses lossless compression. PNG files hold more information than a JPG

<https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/file-types/image/comparison/jpeg-vs-png.html>

What is the difference between JPEG and PNG files?
Despite their similarities and widespread use, there are many differences between JPEG and PNG files. Because of their different compression processes, JPEGs contain less data than PNGs — and therefore, are usually smaller in size. Unlike JPEGs, PNGs support transparent backgrounds, making them preferred for graphic design.

Barbara
Esteemed Contributor

I use a JPG in general for banners, cover images, and such because it doesn't matter much, though I use the least compression for them. For most of the design images, I use PNG unless it's an enormous file.

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Mariholly
Valued Contributor

I used to always use PNG, but I've discovered the advantages of SVG and I think I can't live without them anymore 😁 Designs: SVG, PNG: cover photos

waterart
Valued Contributor

I upload PNG format and like above I too started to upload SVG because of their advantages (being able to change their colors in the designer, love that)

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Barbara
Esteemed Contributor

SVG format is excellent for specific types of designs. For clock numbers, it's a total game changer. I used to upload the same darned numbers in all the colors I needed. Not anymore!

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1234Shine
Contributor II

@Barbara , @waterart , @Mariholly , 

What software do you use to create SVG, and why?  Yes, please don't forget the "Why" part, as I am also very interested in knowing why you choose to use a particular one among others.  Thank you!

Mariholly
Valued Contributor

I have been using Corel Draw for many years. I'm no SVG expert and I'm sure I'll make mistakes, but the great thing about it is that you can change the colors in Zazzle's design tool just like you would in your own design program. This way it is not necessary to make a file for each color variant you want in your design. Also the client can change it. But it's limited, it doesn't support gradients, for example.

Barbara
Esteemed Contributor

I don't use SVG's that often since they don't usually suit the kind of images I create, However, when I do I want an SVG, I create them onlline in Photopea because my version of Photoshop isn't capable of doing it and because Photopea is easy to use. I'm sure there are others that are equally easy.

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waterart
Valued Contributor

I use Inkscape to make svg graphics because it is free and can make professional looking graphics just like paid software. Nearly all my computer art is now made with inkscape.

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1234Shine
Contributor II

@Mariholly ,

It is a big plus customers can change SVG color to different ones, but the challenge is how to let them know that in your design when they browsing through a sea of products?  Any Suggestions?

Mariholly
Valued Contributor

No, I wish I knew.  Customers are an enigma and you don't know how to do the right thing... 🤷‍♀️

By the way, Tiling Effect doesn't work on SVG file, right?

waterart
Valued Contributor

I think the biggest benefit is for designers because they don't need to upload multiple files of the same image if they want to use it within a new design but with different colors such as the clock numbers that has been mentioned. If you group products that have the same design but different colors, the sales page will let the customer know there are different color available, see my example https://www.zazzle.com/dog_bone_and_pawprint_design_placemat-256889898717395505

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