Format comparisonLast reviewed 2026-03-29
AVIF vs PNG
AVIF is often better for strong compression in supported environments. PNG is safer for compatibility, transparency, and editing handoff.
Best quick answer
Choose AVIF when your workflow fully supports it and size matters. Choose PNG when compatibility and easier editing are more important.
Side-by-side
How the options differ
Compression
AVIF
PNG is larger
PNG
AVIF is often much smaller
Compatibility
AVIF
PNG is safer
PNG
AVIF support still varies more
Editing handoff
AVIF
Better for design workflows
PNG
Less ideal in some legacy tools
Best use
AVIF
Transparent and reusable assets
PNG
Efficient modern delivery
Criteria
AVIF
PNG
Compression
PNG is larger
AVIF is often much smaller
Compatibility
PNG is safer
AVIF support still varies more
Editing handoff
Better for design workflows
Less ideal in some legacy tools
Best use
Transparent and reusable assets
Efficient modern delivery
Winner scenarios
When each option wins
Choose AVIF for supported modern web delivery.
Choose PNG when the next tool or teammate needs a more dependable format.
FAQ
Questions people ask while choosing
Why not always use AVIF if it is smaller?
Because workflow support and team comfort still matter. Smaller is not helpful if the next step breaks.
Why convert AVIF to PNG?
To regain compatibility and make editing or publishing handoff easier.