Format comparison
TIFF vs JPG
TIFF is a high-quality scan/print/archival raster; JPG is the everyday share format. TIFF preserves detail; JPG shrinks photos for the web and chat.
Decision table
| Feature | TIFF | JPG |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Often lossless / lightly packed | Lossy |
| Transparency | Possible in some variants | No |
| Best for | Scans, print, archives | Everyday photo sharing |
| Typical size | Very large | Small |
| Web support | Poor as a native web image | Excellent |
| Editing | Excellent for masters | Limited repeated saves |
| Multi-page | Common for scans | No |
Choose TIFF when…
- Scanner output
- Print prepress
- Archival masters
- Multi-page scan packets
Choose JPG when…
- Email and chat
- Websites and social
- Phone photo sharing
- When size must stay tiny
Verdict
Keep TIFF (or another master) for scans and print. Deliver JPG for email, web, and phones.
Convert between them
Jump straight into a private browser converter — files are not uploaded to a server.
Keep exploring this topic
Stay inside the TIFF / JPG knowledge graph — sibling comparisons, best-format guides, and converters — not generic homepage links.
Format hubs & guides
Related comparisons
Best format guides