BackgroundErase supports multiple image formats depending on whether you’re downloading from Studio or using the API. Each format has different tradeoffs around file size, image quality, and transparency support. This guide explains what each format is best used for.
Quick takeaway: If you need transparency, use PNG or WebP. If you want smaller file sizes and don’t need transparency, JPG is usually the best choice.
JPG / JPEG / JPE / JFIF
JPG (also written as JPEG) is one of the most common image formats on the web. It uses lossy compression, which means the file size is smaller but some image data is discarded.
- JPG vs JPEG: They are the same format. “JPG” exists because early systems only allowed three-letter file extensions.
- JPE and JFIF are less common extensions that still represent JPEG images.
- No transparency: JPG does not support alpha channels.
- Best for: Photos, product images with solid backgrounds, and cases where small file size matters.
PNG
PNG uses lossless compression, meaning image quality is preserved exactly. PNG also supports transparency through an alpha channel.
- Transparency support: Yes (full alpha channel).
- Larger file size compared to JPG.
- Studio output: Studio always downloads results as PNG to preserve transparency.
- Best for: Background-removed images, logos, UI assets, and compositing.
WebP
WebP is a modern image format developed by Google. It supports both lossy and lossless compression and can include transparency.
- Transparency support: Yes.
- Smaller file sizes than PNG in many cases.
- Best for: Web delivery when you want transparency with smaller files.
- Note: Some older tools or systems may not fully support WebP.
BMP
BMP is an uncompressed (or lightly compressed) bitmap format. Files are very large compared to modern formats.
- No lossy compression.
- Very large file sizes.
- Limited or inconsistent transparency support.
- Best for: Legacy workflows or compatibility with older software.
TIFF / TIF
TIFF is a high-quality format commonly used in professional photography and printing. It can be lossless or lossy depending on how it’s encoded.
- High image fidelity.
- Very large file sizes.
- Can support transparency and multiple layers.
- Best for: Archival storage, print workflows, and professional editing.
GIF
GIF is an older format best known for simple animations. It uses a limited color palette (256 colors max).
- Supports simple transparency (on/off, not full alpha).
- Supports animation.
- Lower image quality due to color limits.
- Best for: Simple animations or legacy use cases.
Which format should I choose?
- Need transparency? → PNG or WebP
- Smallest file size, no transparency? → JPG
- Web performance with transparency? → WebP
- Professional or archival workflows? → TIFF