Short answer: if the source is already PNG, save the original. If it is JPG, WebP, or another supported format, open it in a trusted local editor and export as PNG—or use a local browser conversion command.
When PNG is the right choice
PNG is useful for screenshots, interface graphics, diagrams, logos, text-heavy images, and artwork that needs transparency. It uses lossless compression, so saving a PNG does not add JPEG-style compression artefacts.
PNG is not automatically “higher quality.” Converting a low-quality JPG to PNG preserves the pixels it currently has; it cannot restore detail already lost to compression.
Method 1: save an existing PNG unchanged
- Open the image itself if possible.A thumbnail on the page may link to a larger original.
- Right-click and choose Save image as.Check that the filename ends in
.png. - Verify the result.Open the downloaded file and check its dimensions and transparent areas.
Method 2: convert a web image to PNG
Save the source and export it as PNG in a trusted local editor. Alternatively, ImageMemento's Save as PNG command converts the selected image in the browser after you explicitly choose it. The image is not uploaded to EinstineWrites.
Does PNG preserve transparency?
Yes—if the decoded source actually contains transparent pixels. A white background baked into a JPG is not transparency and will remain white after conversion. Converting JPG to PNG cannot automatically remove a background.
Why is the PNG much larger?
Photographs contain complex colour variation and usually compress more efficiently as JPG or WebP. PNG prioritises exact pixel preservation, so photo-sized PNG files can be several times larger. Use PNG when lossless detail or transparency matters; otherwise JPG or WebP may be more practical.
It cannot add resolution, recreate missing detail, remove a baked-in background, or grant permission to reuse the work.
Common problems
The browser still downloads WebP
The server is supplying a WebP version. Use a real conversion workflow rather than changing the filename.
The PNG has no transparent background
The source likely has no alpha transparency. You would need to edit and remove the background with an appropriate image tool.
The image is smaller than expected
The page may display a responsive thumbnail. Look for a larger linked source or the best candidate in the image's responsive source set.
A quicker local option
Use ImageMemento from the right-click menu
Save the best available original or convert the selected image to JPG, PNG, or WebP inside Chrome or Edge. There are no uploads, accounts, analytics, or AI.