PNG is a lossless format — but that doesn't mean it can't be compressed. Unlike JPEG which discards data, PNG compression works by optimizing how pixel data is stored. Here's how to shrink PNG files while keeping every pixel identical to the original.
Lossless vs Lossy PNG Compression
- Lossless compression — reduces file size without changing a single pixel. The decompressed image is pixel-for-pixel identical. Works by optimizing color palettes and removing metadata.
- Lossy compression — deliberately removes image data for smaller files. Can reduce size dramatically but quality is permanently lost.
Our Image Compressor supports both approaches — you choose the quality setting that fits your needs.
When You Must Use Lossless
- Screenshots (text becomes blurry with lossy compression)
- Logos and icons (compression artifacts around edges)
- Images with text or fine lines
- Images that will be edited further
Alternative: Convert to WebP
Lossless WebP images are typically 26% smaller than equivalent PNGs. If your use case supports WebP, use the Image Converter to convert PNG to WebP — same quality, smaller file.