PNG vs SVG
How do PNG and SVGcompare? Here's everything you need to know to choose the right format — and how to convert between them.
.png
Full guide →Portable Network Graphics
PNG is a lossless image format that supports transparency. It was created as an improved, non-patented replacement for GIF. PNG is ideal for graphics, logos, screenshots, and any image where quality preservation is critical.
.svg
Full guide →Scalable Vector Graphics
SVG is a vector image format based on XML. Unlike raster formats, SVG images scale to any size without losing quality, making them perfect for logos, icons, and responsive web design.
| Specification | PNG | SVG |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Portable Network Graphics | Scalable Vector Graphics |
| Extension | .png | .svg |
| MIME type | image/png | image/svg+xml |
| Category | Image | Image |
| Developer | PNG Development Group | W3C |
| Year introduced | 1996 | 2001 |
| Compression | Lossless | Lossless |
PNG advantages
- Lossless compression — no quality loss
- Supports full transparency (alpha channel)
- Great for text, logos, and sharp-edged graphics
- Universally supported across all browsers and platforms
PNG limitations
- Larger file sizes than JPG for photographs
- No animation support (use APNG or GIF instead)
- Not ideal for print workflows (CMYK not supported)
SVG advantages
- Infinitely scalable without quality loss
- Tiny file sizes for simple graphics
- Can be styled with CSS and animated with JavaScript
- Text remains searchable and accessible
SVG limitations
- Not suitable for photographs or complex images
- Can be slow to render with many paths
- Security concerns when accepting user uploads
- Inconsistent rendering across browsers for complex SVGs
Which should you use?
Both PNG and SVG have their strengths. PNG excels at website graphics and logos, while SVG is better for logos and brand marks.
Best uses for PNG
Best uses for SVG
Convert between PNG and SVG
Need to switch formats? Convert for free with SquishConvert.