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BMP vsPNG: Key Differences & Best Format for You

Compare the features of BMP and PNG file formats to choose the best option for your needs.

Basic Information

	BMP	PNG
CategoryThe general type of file (audio, image, etc.).	images	images
CompressionMethod used to reduce file size (Lossy, Lossless, Uncompressed).	Uncompressed	Lossless
Relative SizeTypical file size compared to other formats.	Large	Medium
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.	image/bmp	image/png
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?	No	Yes

Technical Details

	BMP	PNG
Bit DepthNumber of bits used to represent color or audio sample amplitude (higher means more detail).	24	24
ResolutionImage dimensions (pixels) or audio sample rate/video dimensions.	Pixel dimensions (e.g., 1920x1080)	Pixel dimensions
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.	Lossless (matches source)	Lossless (matches source)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.	-	-
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.	-	-

Features & Usage

	BMP	PNG
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.	Windows Most image editors and viewers	Web Browsers Image editors Most modern platforms
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.	Simple graphics on Windows Screenshots (older systems) Archival (if lossless needed)	Web graphics (logos, icons) Screenshots Images requiring transparency Line art
Metadata SupportCan the format store additional information (tags, descriptions, etc.)?	No	Yes
Transparency SupportDoes the format support transparent backgrounds (for images)?	No	Yes
Editing FriendlyIs the format suitable for easy editing without significant quality loss?	Yes	Yes
Encryption SupportDoes the format support password protection or encryption?	-	-

Pros & Cons

	BMP	PNG
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.	Lossless quality Simple format Widely supported on Windows	Lossless compression Supports alpha transparency (smooth edges) Good for graphics, logos, screenshots
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.	Very large file sizes Not suitable for web use No transparency support (usually)	Larger file sizes than JPEG for photographs Not suitable for animation (APNG exists but less common than GIF/WebP)