PNG and ICO explained
PNG is a lossless raster format built to replace GIF. It stores every pixel exactly as given and supports a full 8-bit alpha channel, which means genuine partial transparency rather than the single transparent colour GIF offers.
ICO is a container that holds several versions of the same icon at different sizes, so the operating system or browser can pick the one that fits. It is capped at 256×256 pixels.
- Where PNG files come from
- Screenshots, exported logos and UI assets, and anything designed rather than photographed.
- Where ICO is used
- Website favicons and Windows application icons.