Picture File Formats and Extensions

While transferring image files with the use of a USB 3.0 docking station, you may have noticed that different pictures have different file name extensions. These file extensions actually stand for different file types, some of which present better picture quality, while some are smaller in size for faster transfers.

Here’€™s a rundown of picture file types so you can determine which kind would work best for you.

GIF

What is a GIF file? It is a graphics file format best used for graphics with limited palette, 256 colors to be exact. The fewer colors an image has, the better in saving in this format.

Pros: Scanned illustrations are better saved in this format than any other format. Animated images from a laptop can easily be transferred by a docking station to a multi-media device with its 10 fold speed advantage. This can be used for animation and is very effective in images that are monochromatic.

Cons: This would not work for images that are vivid. Pictures that are colorful would look good in this format.

JPEG

What is a JPEG file? It is method of removing other data in order to provide a compressed image that looks clear as the original.

Pros: Any wannabe photographer can take pictures with their digital camera and transfer files directly to their laptops with the use of a USB 3.0 docking station. Files can be resized depending on the preferred size without destroying the image.

Cons: Copying files and editing subsequently lessens the quality of the image. It would be better to edit the original file to preserve quality.

PNG

What is a PNG file? Another graphics file format that is better than GIF in terms of colors. It can not only support 256 colors but also 16 million colors.

Pros: This can be used by professional photographers that are still in the process of picture editing. Some retouches may be done to bring out the best in the photographic images. Web users would also benefit from this format since it works well with online applications.

Cons: This format does not work well in some programs so pictures may be too dark at times.

Bitmap

What is a Bit map file? These files are large images that cannot be compressed as dictated by its developer.

Pros: It is highly accepted by any electronic device that carries the Microsoft Windows operating system. It boasts of simplicity and acceptance in programs for windows.

Cons: This shouts exclusivity that makes it impossible to be used in other operating systems. It is similar to most apple products since they cannot be used in other devices.

TIFF

What is a TIFF file? Another format that saves more colors that a GIFF format. It may or may offer good compression but it would depend on the images.

Pros: This is widely accepted in the printing business. Images for print media is best saved in TIFF file.

Cons: Though this is considered better than other format since it is flexible not all readers are able to recognize this file. It is not also widely supported online hence transferring files using a USB dock may prove to be futile.