Why WebP images need to be converted to PNG for better compatibility

WebP images to PNG

WebP images to PNG

WebP format was created to enhance image storage because it uses efficient compression technique. It has faster website load times compared to other file formats such as JPEG and PNG. However, PNG format was created as a patent-free, transparent, and clear image file format. 

PNG images can hold various colors, although they are larger than WebP images because of their lossless compression technique. Thus, while WebP images have better quality and faster loading times, they must be converted to PNG for better compatibility as discussed in this article.

Why Convert WebP to PNG

Whereas WebP file format has become very popular among web designers and developers, it is associated with some challenges or pitfalls. First, WebP is limited in terms of file sizes. For instance, its maximum resolution limit it less compatible or totally incompatible with high quality images or pictures.

Second, WebP images are hardly supported by legacy browsers such as Internet Explorer and modern browsers like Safari. When used in such browsers, WebP images appear broken. Besides, WebP uses efficient compression method that tends to cause minor obliterations, including blocky areas to its images.

Given the problems associated with WebP images, it is hardly the best file format for solving all image-related concerns. Users must about compatibility and size issues before using WebP. On the other hand, PNG supports and works better with transparent backgrounds. Users consider PNG file format as the best choice when aiming to perfectly blend graphics and icons with the website’s background colors. 

Converting a WebP image to PNG using webptopng.io helps you get images that are appealing and are supported or compatible with nearly each web browser. Users visiting websites with PNG images tend to enjoy the striking visuals associated with it as different webpages unfold. 

Whereas WebP images are small and preserve image quality during and after compression, they are less compatible with certain browsers, applications, or devices. This gives PNG a competitive edge WebP as discussed below: 

Broader Compatibility

WebP images should be converted to PNG since the latter file format is very compatible, supported and works well on various web browsers, applications, and devices. WebP images are comparatively smaller than PNG mages because of their efficient compression technique, although not every web browser and applications or programs can use them. 

On the other hand, PNG images enjoy universal support, use, compatibility, and work well on various platforms and devices. Such attributes make PNG images crucial for digital marketers, website developers and designers as they ensure that all users can simply download or directly view their images without quality loss.

Quality Loss vs Preservation

WebP images support both lossless and lossy compression techniques. As such, lossless compression ensure WebP images’ quality is preserved, while lossy WebP images slightly lose image quality due to compression artefacts. This make certain WebP images appear broken or have blocky area when opened on different devices or browsers, which is not the case of PNGs.

PNG images support lossless compression, preserving all image qualities and making them ideal for medical imaging, graphic design, and professional photography. PNG images are not prone to quality loss, ensuring their visual appeal or data are kept safe or not distorted by different devices or websites. 

Design and Editing Problems

PNG images retain quality after compression, making them the preferred file format for content creators and digital artists, unlike lossy WebP images. As a result, PNG can be used for vector graphics, visual designs, and digital art. To edit your images while preserving all data or quality, convert the WebP images to PNG. This ensures that the alterations or changes made remain clear. 

PNG images can also be edited using various tools, unlike WebP images. PNGs are flexible, allowing designers and artists to explore new things and make their digital work flawless without destructing the final outcomes. 

Animation Problems

Whereas WebP animations support motion pictures, they are prone to compatibility issues. Most devices, applications, or systems can hardly process or show WebP animations or graphics well. Users can convert their WebP to PNG particularly when motion is not necessary. 

PNG images are universally compatible and supported by nearly all browsers, apps and devices, making it easier to display motion pictures or contents on different platforms or systems. This enhances user experience. Besides, static PNG images are widely accepted and compatible or used in different devices and tools, unlike WebP images.

Transparency Problems

PNG and WebP images support transparency. However, they can hardly work harmoniously together. For instance, since WebP images are not universally compatible or supported by most apps and systems, they may not work smoothly or well as is the case of PNG images.

PNG supports alpha channel, ensuring that its images are totally transparent. Converting WebP to PNG ensure the transparency levels are retained, which makes the file format ideal for images with layer effects or complex backgrounds, particularly in website designs. 

Conclusion

While WebP images are relatively smaller than PNG images, converting your WebP to PNG ensures universal compatibility and support across browsers, applications, and devices. PNG ensures image quality remains high and better handling of transparency for complex images.

PNG is ideal for the design process and editing since quality is retained after editing and the files can be displayed smoothly across various devices, ensuring user experience is improved.