File size
Option A
Usually smaller
Option B
Usually larger
FAQ Guide
Lossy vs Lossless Compression: Which Should You Use?
Use lossy compression when smaller delivery files matter most, and lossless compression when preserving exact visual or source detail matters more.
Quick comparison
Quality
Option A
May remove detail
Option B
Preserves source data
Best for
Option A
Photos and delivery
Option B
Screenshots and assets
Questions and answers
Is lossy compression bad?
No. It is often the right choice for web photos and uploads when the final image still looks good.
When should I avoid lossy compression?
Avoid it for screenshots with text, logos, diagrams, and files that will be edited repeatedly.
Can I reverse lossy compression?
No. Keep the original source file if you may need to export a cleaner version later.