The web moves beyond JPEG and PNG toward modern formats with smaller files and equal quality. WebP and AVIF lead this transition.
WebP
Available since 2010 with near-universal support. Handles lossy and lossless compression with transparency and animation. Files are 25-35% smaller than JPEG equivalents.
AVIF
Based on AV1 codec offering superior compression, sometimes 50% smaller than JPEG. Supports HDR and wide color gamut. Browser support is growing rapidly.
Recommendation
Use WebP as primary format. Add AVIF for supporting browsers. Include JPEG fallbacks. Picture elements with source sets make multi-format delivery straightforward.