Why Image Compression Matters for Websites
Images account for 50-80% of a typical webpage's total file size. Google includes page speed in its ranking algorithm — slower pages rank lower. A single uncompressed hero image (5MB) can cause a page to take 10+ seconds to load on a mobile connection.
Lossy vs Lossless Compression
- Lossy: Reduces file size by permanently removing some image data. JPG uses lossy compression. You control the quality/size trade-off.
- Lossless: Reduces file size without any data loss. PNG lossless compression, like ZIP, stores data more efficiently without discarding anything.
Format Recommendations
- Photos: JPG at quality 75-85% — typically 60-80% smaller than original with minimal visible loss
- Graphics/logos/screenshots: PNG lossless — or WebP for 25-35% additional savings
- Modern web: WebP delivers best quality-to-size ratio with broad browser support
Compress Images Online
- Open Image Compressor.
- Upload your image.
- Choose quality level (80% JPG is a good starting point).
- Compare original vs compressed visually.
- Download the compressed file.