Image Guides

Best Image Size for Email

Email images should load quickly, fit narrow layouts, and remain readable on mobile. Heavy images can make messages feel slow or fail to display well in constrained clients.

The best email image size depends on the template width, whether the image is a header, product block, button-like graphic, or inline instructional image.

Quick answer

  • Email images should load quickly, fit narrow layouts, and remain readable on mobile. Heavy images can make messages feel slow or fail to display well in constrained clients.
  • Check the email template width before exporting images.
  • Resize banners and inline images to match the template rather than uploading large originals.
  • Use JPG for photos, PNG for transparent graphics or crisp text, and GIF only when animation is truly needed.

How to do it

  1. 1Check the email template width before exporting images.
  2. 2Resize banners and inline images to match the template rather than uploading large originals.
  3. 3Use JPG for photos, PNG for transparent graphics or crisp text, and GIF only when animation is truly needed.
  4. 4Compress images while checking readability on mobile.
  5. 5Send a test email and review it in common clients before launching.

Complete guide

Email constraints are different from web pages

Email clients vary widely. Some block images by default, some scale images unexpectedly, and many users read on narrow mobile screens.

Because of that, email images should be simple, right-sized, and supported by real text. Do not put all important message content inside one image.

Formats for email images

JPG is efficient for photos and banners. PNG is better for transparent logos or graphics with crisp text. GIF can work for simple animation but should be used carefully because animated files can become heavy.

WebP support in email clients can be inconsistent compared with websites, so check your sending platform and audience before relying on it.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not send a full-width email as one giant image. It can harm accessibility, responsiveness, and deliverability.

Do not ignore mobile previews. Text inside images can become unreadable after scaling.

Conclusion

Email image optimization is about reliability: right-sized assets, readable mobile previews, common formats, and real text for important content.

FAQ

What is the best image size for email?

Match the width of your email template and keep files light enough to load quickly. The exact dimensions depend on the design.

Should email images be JPG or PNG?

Use JPG for photos and PNG for logos, transparent graphics, and text-heavy visuals.

Can I use WebP in email?

Only if your email platform and target clients support it. JPG, PNG, and GIF remain common email choices.

Should important text be inside an image?

Avoid relying only on image text. Real HTML text is more accessible and remains visible if images are blocked.

How do I reduce email image size?

Resize to the template width, choose the right format, and compress while checking readability.