9 Best Image File Format & Type In 2025 (Compared)
Finding the best image file format shouldn’t be complicated. Every image type is curated with a reason and is best for different purposes.
All you have to do is decide the goal and pick the right format accordingly. For example:
- TIFF for printing and high-quality images.
- PNG to support transparency and graphics.
- JPEG (JPG) for small file size, good for photos.
However, there are more than a dozen image types and file formats to choose from. That too with new entries like JPEG XL, WebP, AVIF, etc in the mix.
So to make it easy, we have compared and sorted the 9 best image file formats and image types of 2025.
You can choose them based on the following requirements.
Without any further ado, let’s get started.
Best Image File Format & Type In 2025
For Ecommerce & Website
JPEG
JPEG stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group. It is one of the most commonly used image file formats for the web.
JPEG reduces file size by simplifying image details, which makes it ideal for websites that need to load quickly while still displaying clear, attractive images.
This is why most online stores and blogs rely on JPEG—it ensures that pages load quickly without compromising a good visual experience.
There’s a drawback to note here though. Since some image data is removed in the process, JPEG images may lose a bit of sharpness over multiple edits.
It’s best to always keep the original file saved separately, and use it for new editing requirements.
But since the quality of an image is barely an issue—-JPEG is the ideal image file format for websites.
PNG
PNG stands for Portable Network Graphics and is another popular image file format, especially when transparency is needed.
They are the perfect choice for logos, icons, and images with sharp edges.
In our survey, we found that only 1.3% of fashion eCommerce uses transparent product images and PNG image types. And those who do, have to overlay the image on a background of there.
One of the reasons to do so can be the excellent clarity this image type provides. But other than that, JPEG and WebP are generally more suitable for websites and eCommerce.
WebP
WebP is a file format for those who want the best of both worlds. High-quality images with smaller file sizes.
Developed by Google, WebP image file format provides excellent compression efficiency, reducing image size more than JPEG and PNG while maintaining superior image clarity.
It’s an excellent format for eCommerce websites and blogs that need to balance speed and quality.
When creating specifications on PixelPhant, you select multiple file formats that you want to receive. WebP is among the most used file formats when editing images for eCommerce.
AVIF
AVIF (AV1 Image File Format) is the newest contender, offering even better compression than WebP while supporting vibrant colors and transparency.
However, the only reason why it is not the est is due to the lack of adoption of this file format. Many browsers, still do not support AVIF. Hence, eCommerce and websites might have to use a fallback image.
But gradually, more and more brands have started using the format as well. PixelPhant found that about 20.1% of fashion brands ARE using AVIF file format for their product images already.
So if you want your websites to stay ahead of the curve with cutting-edge image optimization you can choose AVIF.
However, for others, WebP remains the more practical choice for now.
For Photography & Editing
RAW
RAW files are the go-to choice for photographers who need maximum image detail. There are various RAW file formats depending on what camera are you using.
For example:
- CR2 / CR3 – Canon RAW format
- NEF – Nikon RAW format
- ARW / SRF / SR2 – Sony RAW format
- RAF – Fujifilm RAW format
- ORF – Olympus RAW format
- RW2 – Panasonic RAW format
- DNG – Adobe Digital Negative (a universal RAW format used by some cameras and software)
Unlike formats that simplify image data for smaller sizes, RAW files capture everything a camera sensor records, allowing for complete control over exposure, color correction, and detail adjustments.
While these files take up a lot of storage space and require specialized software to edit, they are essential for professionals who want to make the most of their images.
Shooting in RAW ensures that no details are lost, which is why photographers and retouchers prefer it over JPEG for serious work.
JPEG XL
JPEG XL is another emerging image file format in the photography world. This next-generation format improves upon traditional JPEG by offering better image quality at smaller file sizes.
It also supports advanced features like high dynamic range (HDR), making it an exciting option for photographers looking for a format that balances efficiency and quality.
However, just like AVIF, since its adoption is still growing, it’s not yet a standard replacement for traditional JPEG in most editing software.
PSD
For ongoing editing projects, PSD (Photoshop Document) is the best format.
As the native file type for Adobe Photoshop, it retains layers, masks, and adjustments, allowing designers and photographers to make edits without permanently altering the original image.
This flexibility is crucial for complex image retouching, where changes need to be made over multiple sessions.
While PSD files aren’t meant for web use or final distribution, they are indispensable in photography and professional photo retouching.
For High-Quality Printing
TIFF
TIFF stands for Tagged Image File Format and is the gold standard for printing images.
It preserves every detail of an image, making it ideal for high-resolution printing, from billboards to fine art prints.
Unlike formats designed for web use, TIFF ensures that images retain their sharpness and color accuracy, even after multiple edits.
Because of this, photographers and graphic designers often use TIFF when preparing images for print.
However, due to its large file size, TIFF isn’t practical for web use.
Lastly, PDF (Portable Document Format) is another excellent format for printing, particularly when images need to be combined with text and layout elements.
PDF is not particularly an image file format. It is a document format in which images are preserved well.
Unlike TIFF, which focuses solely on image quality, PDF preserves the overall design, making it perfect for brochures, magazines, and other print-ready documents.
It ensures that fonts, images, and layouts remain consistent across different devices and printers, making it a versatile option for professional printing projects.
Conclusion
As we have seen above, each image file format serves a unique purpose, and choosing the right one depends on your needs.
For websites and eCommerce, formats like JPEG, PNG, WebP, and AVIF optimize images for speed and visual appeal.
In photography and editing, RAW, PSD, and JPEG XL provide greater flexibility and high-detail editing capabilities.
When it comes to high-quality printing, TIFF and PDF ensure that every detail is preserved for professional results.
By understanding the strengths of each format, you can make the best choice for your project, whether it’s boosting website speed, capturing breathtaking photos, or producing flawless print materials.
