JPEG-XL is a good option if your primary concerns are effective compression and small file sizes while preserving good image quality, and you are certain that the browser will support it.
When it comes to fine control over transparency, wide compatibility across various devices and browsers, and a reliable format, PNG continues to be a solid choice.
Now, let us dig into a detailed comparison.
1. Compression Technique
JPEG-XL
JPEG-XL use no loss a cutting-edge compression method created to effectively encode image data. It is quite good at finding similarities and patterns in the image content while maintaining all of the original image information.
As a result, compression efficiency is improved over previous JPEG standards.
PNG
On the other hand, PNG uses the DEFLATE compression method, which is very good at compressing text, simple graphics, and images with crisp edges. While DEFLATE is effective for some image kinds, JPEG-XL can be a better option for complicated photographic content.
2. Ratio of Compression
JPEG-XL
When compared to PNG, lossless JPEG-XL typically achieves better compression ratios because it preserves the same degree of image quality while creating files with lesser sizes. Due to this, it is a better option in scenarios when reducing file size is essential.
PNG
Although lossless compression is a feature of PNG, it might not always achieve the same compression efficiency as JPEG-XL. Although it works well for some image kinds, photographic content may have greater file sizes as a result.
3. Image Quality
JPEG-XL
No loss JPEG-XL is designed to maintain the original quality of images without sacrificing any quality as, it can handle a variety of image formats, including graphics and photos, and retain accurate colors, contrast, and fine details.
PNG
PNG is well known for its ability to preserve picture quality without any degradation, especially when it comes to text, simple graphics, and images with crisp edges. It is excellent at protecting this kind of content while maintaining the integrity of the images.
4. Transparency
JPEG-XL
No loss both opaque and alpha channel transparency are supported by JPEG-XL. Because of this, it’s a great option for images with different levels of transparency and gives web developers and graphic designers a lot of freedom.
PNG
PNG is well renowned for its ardent advocacy of openness. It has an alpha channel that lets you adjust the transparency of the image precisely which makes it a useful tool for graphics and photographs that need transparent backgrounds.
5. Support for Browsers
JPEG-XL
Browsers are gradually gaining support for JPEG-XL, particularly the lossless form. Even though more people are using it, not all web browsers may currently support it to the same extent. Developers should select the format after taking the browser landscape into account.
PNG
PNG is widely supported by all of the main operating systems and web browsers. It is regarded as a secure and dependable option for web graphics and images that must work across many browsers and platforms.
6. File Format and Compatibility
JPEG-XL
JPEG-XL is a more recent image format that promises to provide excellent photos with effective compression. Although its use is growing, it might not be as widely accepted as more traditional and established formats.
PNG
For a considerable amount of time, PNG has been a common image format. It is extensively supported by a wide range of web environments, platforms, and software applications. PNG is a trustworthy option for cross-platform interoperability because of this.
7. Use Cases
JPEG-XL
No Loss JPEG-XL is adaptable and good for many different applications. It works particularly well with photographic photos, graphics, artwork, and high-quality photographs when it’s important to reduce file size without sacrificing image quality.
PNG
PNG is especially recommended for images that need line art, logos, translucent backgrounds, and sharply edged graphics. For web graphics, it is a common format, particularly where wide browser compatibility is required.
In conclusion, PNG and Lossless JPEG-XL are useful formats for preserving image quality during compression without experiencing any loss. The particular use case, preferences for compression efficiency, and the requirement for cross-browser and cross-platform compatibility all influence which of the two formats is used. PNG is a dependable format recognized for its wide compatibility and robust support for transparency, even if JPEG-XL offers superior compression efficiency. The choices you make should be in line with the particular needs and objectives of your project.