Compare
PSD vs JPEG
PSD is an editable Photoshop project that can retain layers; JPEG is a widely shared raster image often used for photographs. Keep the working file separate from the export.
Which format should you choose?
Keep PSD for continued editing; export JPEG for photo sharing when lossy compression is acceptable.
Good fit for PSD
Image editing master
- Handing off a layered design that another editor will revise
Good fit for JPEG
Photographs · Web images
- Photographs intended for compact sharing
- Images with many colors
Basic information
| Field | PSD | JPEG |
|---|---|---|
| Extension | .psd | .jpg, .jpeg |
| MIME type | image/vnd.adobe.photoshop | image/jpeg |
| Common uses | Image editing master | Photographs · Web images |
| How to open | Open in Photoshop or a PSD-capable editor and verify important effects in the target software. | Most operating-system viewers, web browsers, and image editors can open JPEG files. |
| Export or convert | Export JPEG or PNG for viewing, then inspect appearance and keep the source PSD. | Exporting JPEG to PNG or WebP cannot restore data already removed by JPEG compression. Keep an original editing file, and use a proper export command rather than changing only the filename extension. |
Choose by use case
Handing off a layered design that another editor will revise
Image editing master
PSDPhotographs intended for compact sharing
Photographs · Web images
JPEGImages with many colors
Photographs · Web images
JPEGKey point 1
PSD can preserve layers and editable elements.
More on the differencesKey point 2
JPEG is widely supported for sharing photos.
More on the differencesMore on the differences
Preserve the PSD source and export a copy. Check dimensions, color, compression quality, and whether transparency or layers need flattening.
- PSD supports ongoing editing in compatible software.
- JPEG is convenient for viewing and sharing but is not a layered source.
- Repeated lossy saves may reduce image quality.
Frequently asked questions
Can JPEG replace the PSD project?
Not if you need layers or future edits. Keep PSD and treat JPEG as an exported copy.