BMPPNG
BMP vs PNG: Which Image Format Should You Choose?
A side-by-side comparison of BMP (Bitmap Image File) and PNG (Portable Network Graphics) — covering compression, quality, file size, transparency, and browser support.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | BMP | PNG |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | BMP (Bitmap Image File) | PNG (Portable Network Graphics) |
| Compression | None (uncompressed) | Lossless |
| Typical Size | Very large | Large |
| Transparency | ||
| Animation | ||
| Max Colors | 16.7 million | 16.7 million + Alpha |
| Browser Support | Partial | Universal (100%) |
| Year Created | 1986 | 1996 |
When to Use BMP
- Legacy Windows applications that require BMP input
- Uncompressed image editing workflows
- Simple pixel-art creation tools
When to Use PNG
- Logos, icons, and branding assets that need transparency
- Screenshots and UI mockups with sharp text
- Graphics with flat colors and hard edges
- Images requiring a transparent background
- Archival of images without any quality loss
The Verdict
PNG is superior to BMP in every way for modern use — lossless, smaller, with transparency. Only use BMP for legacy Windows software that specifically requires it.