How to Convert JPG to PNG (and When You Should)

Converting JPG to PNG is one of the most searched file conversion topics on the internet. But before you convert, there is something important you should understand: converting a JPG to PNG does not improve the image quality.

Why Converting JPG to PNG Does Not Add Quality

JPEG is a lossy format. When an image is saved as JPG, some data is permanently discarded to reduce file size. Converting that JPG to PNG (a lossless format) preserves every pixel exactly as it is in the JPG, but it cannot bring back the data that was already lost during JPEG compression.

Think of it this way: if you photocopy a blurry photo, the copy is not any sharper. It is a perfect copy of a blurry photo.

When JPG to PNG Actually Makes Sense

There are legitimate reasons to convert:

• Preventing further quality loss: If you need to edit and re-save the image multiple times, PNG will not degrade with each save like JPG does
• Adding transparency: You are going to edit the image in Photoshop or GIMP and need a transparent background
• Software requirements: Some tools or workflows specifically require PNG input
• Archival: You want to preserve the current state without risk of further compression

How to Convert

Drop your JPG file into the Filoshi desktop app, select PNG, and convert. ImageMagick handles the conversion, preserving exact pixel data and color profiles. The output file will be larger than the JPG (since PNG uses lossless compression), but the visual quality will be identical.

The Better Question

If you need high-quality images from the start, try to get the original source file in PNG, TIFF, or RAW format. Starting with a lossless source gives you the best quality for any future use.