Compresso vs TinyPNG: Which Image Compressor Is Better?

Compresso and TinyPNG are two of the most popular free image compressors. Both reduce file sizes effectively, but they take fundamentally different approaches. Here's a detailed comparison.

The Key Difference: Client-Side vs Server-Side

The biggest difference between Compresso and TinyPNG is where your images are processed.

Compresso processes images entirely in your browser. Your files never leave your device — no upload, no server, complete privacy.

TinyPNG uploads your images to their servers for processing. This means your files travel over the internet and are temporarily stored on TinyPNG's servers.

Feature Comparison

• Privacy: Compresso wins — 100% client-side vs server uploads
• File size limits: Compresso has none; TinyPNG limits to 5MB per file (free tier)
• Batch limit: Compresso is unlimited; TinyPNG allows 20 images at a time
• Format conversion: Compresso supports PNG↔JPG↔WebP conversion; TinyPNG is compression-only
• Resizing: Compresso includes resizing; TinyPNG doesn't (free tier)
• Speed: Compresso is instant (no upload needed); TinyPNG depends on upload speed
• Compression quality: Both produce excellent results with minimal visible quality loss
• Cost: Both free; TinyPNG has paid tiers for higher limits

Compression Quality

Both tools produce high-quality compressed images. TinyPNG uses proprietary algorithms optimized for PNG and JPEG compression. Compresso uses browser-native APIs and compression libraries that achieve comparable results.

For most use cases, the quality difference between the two is negligible. Both typically achieve 50-80% file size reduction with minimal visible quality loss.

When to Use Compresso

• You care about privacy and don't want images uploaded to servers
• You need to compress large files (no 5MB limit)
• You want to convert formats (PNG to JPG, JPG to WebP, etc.) while compressing
• You need to resize images alongside compression
• You're working with sensitive or confidential images
• You need unlimited batch processing

When to Use TinyPNG

• You need API access for automated workflows
• You want WordPress plugin integration
• You prefer a tool with a long established reputation

The Verdict

For most users, Compresso is the better choice. It's completely free with no limits, offers more features (format conversion, resizing), and keeps your images completely private. TinyPNG is a solid option if you need API access or WordPress integration.

Try Compresso now — compress your images for free, right in your browser.