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HEIF vsPNG: Key Differences & Best Format for You

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

Basic Information

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

Technical Details

	HEIF	PNG
Bit DepthNumber of bits used to represent color or audio sample amplitude (higher means more detail).	10	24
ResolutionImage dimensions (pixels) or audio sample rate/video dimensions.	Pixel dimensions	Pixel dimensions
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.	High quality at lower file sizes than JPEG	Lossless (matches source)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.	-	-
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.	-	-

Features & Usage

	HEIF	PNG
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.	Apple devices (iOS 11+, macOS High Sierra+) Windows 10+ (with extensions) Android 9+	Web Browsers Image editors Most modern platforms
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.	Mobile photography (default on iPhones) Image sequences Storing computational photography data	Web graphics (logos, icons) Screenshots Images requiring transparency Line art
Metadata SupportCan the format store additional information (tags, descriptions, etc.)?	Yes	Yes
Transparency SupportDoes the format support transparent backgrounds (for images)?	Yes	Yes
Editing FriendlyIs the format suitable for easy editing without significant quality loss?	No	Yes
Encryption SupportDoes the format support password protection or encryption?	-	-

Pros & Cons

	HEIF	PNG
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.	High compression efficiency (smaller files than JPEG for similar quality) Supports transparency, depth maps, animations	Lossless compression Supports alpha transparency (smooth edges) Good for graphics, logos, screenshots
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.	Not yet universally supported Requires specific software or OS support	Larger file sizes than JPEG for photographs Not suitable for animation (APNG exists but less common than GIF/WebP)