WebP is Google's image format, released in 2010 as a modern replacement for JPG and PNG. At equivalent visual quality, WebP files are 25-35% smaller than JPGs. That's a significant saving for websites serving millions of images.
Both formats use lossy compression for photos, but WebP's algorithm (based on VP8 video compression) is simply more efficient. It also supports lossless compression, transparency, and animation — features that previously required using PNG or GIF separately. WebP is the Swiss army knife; JPG is the reliable pocket knife.
Compatibility is where JPG still wins. Every browser, every image editor, every device, every social media platform supports JPG. WebP support is now universal in modern browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge all support it), but older desktop software, email clients, and some social platforms still don't handle WebP well. Try uploading a WebP to a government form or printing it at a photo kiosk.
For websites: use WebP with a JPG fallback. For sharing photos via email or messaging: JPG is safer. For archival storage: either works, but JPG's 30-year track record of universal support gives it an edge for long-term access.
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