Understanding Lossless vs Lossy WebP Compression
Deep dive into the technical details of WebP compression modes. When should you use lossless, and when is lossy the better choice?
WebP isn't just one algorithm; it's two. Understanding the difference between lossless and lossy modes is crucial for maximizing quality and minimizing file size.
Lossless Mode
WebP Lossless reconstructs the exact original pixels. It's ideal for archival images, medical imaging, and graphics with sharp lines and text, offering 26% better compression than PNG.
Lossy Mode
WebP Lossy uses predictive coding to discard less important data, similar to JPEG but more efficient. It's perfect for photographs where minor visual changes are acceptable for massive size reductions.
Choosing the Right Mode
As a rule of thumb: use Lossless for UI elements and screenshots, and Lossy for photos. Our converter automatically selects the best settings for you.