How to choose the appropriate image compression ratio?

Choosing the appropriate image compression ratio depends on the balance between file size reduction and image quality preservation. A higher compression ratio reduces file size but may introduce visible artifacts or blur, while a lower ratio maintains quality but results in larger files.

Key factors to consider:

1. Use case:

   • Web images: Use moderate compression (e.g., 60-80% quality) to ensure fast loading without noticeable quality loss.
   • Print materials: Use low compression (e.g., 90-100% quality) to preserve sharpness and details.
   • Archival storage: Use minimal compression to retain maximum quality for future use.

2. Image type:

   • Photographs: Can tolerate higher compression due to complex textures.
   • Graphics/Logos: Require lower compression to avoid pixelation on sharp edges.

3. Target audience and platform:

   • For mobile users or slow networks, prioritize smaller file sizes.
   • For high-end displays (e.g., Retina screens), maintain higher quality.

Example:
A website banner image can be compressed to 70% quality, reducing file size by 50% while keeping visuals acceptable. In contrast, a product screenshot for an e-commerce site should use 90% quality to ensure clarity.

For scalable image optimization in cloud environments, Tencent Cloud offers services like Image Processing (IMG), which supports automatic compression, format conversion, and adaptive quality adjustment based on usage scenarios. This helps optimize storage costs and delivery speed without manual intervention.