Guide

PDF vs JPG vs PNG: Which Format Should You Use?

Choose between PDF, JPG, and PNG for documents, scans, screenshots, forms, web images, transparent graphics, and email attachments.

Quick Answer

PDF, JPG, and PNG solve different problems. Use PDF when layout and pages matter, JPG for compressed photos, and PNG for screenshots, transparency, and crisp graphics.

Step-by-Step

  1. Use PDF for documents, forms, contracts, reports, invoices, resumes, and multi-page files.
  2. Use JPG for photos or image-heavy files where smaller file size matters more than perfect sharpness.
  3. Use PNG for screenshots, logos, transparent images, UI captures, and graphics with sharp edges.
  4. Convert PDF pages to JPG or PNG when you need image previews, thumbnails, or upload-friendly page images.
  5. Convert JPG or PNG to PDF when you need one shareable document or a printable attachment.

Recommended Workflow

Open the most relevant calculator or utility first, enter a realistic starting point, then use the supporting tools to check assumptions, clean inputs, or prepare the final output.

FAQs

Is PDF better than JPG?

PDF is better for documents and page layout. JPG is better for compressed photos and simple image uploads.

Is PNG better than JPG?

PNG is better for transparency, screenshots, logos, and sharp graphics. JPG is usually smaller for photos.

What should I use for emailing a document?

Use PDF for documents. If the PDF is too large, compress it before sending.