Format Reference

Supported File Formats

Learn about each file format we support, their characteristics, and when to use them.

PDF

.pdfPortable Document Format

Universal document format created by Adobe that preserves fonts, images, and layout across all devices and platforms.

Compression

Variable (ZIP, JPEG)

Transparency

Supported

Best For:

  • Final documents for distribution
  • Contracts and legal documents
  • Print-ready files

Limitations:

  • Difficult to edit without specialized software
  • File size can be large for image-heavy documents

DOCX

.docxMicrosoft Word Open XML

The standard format for editable word processing documents, used by Microsoft Word and other compatible applications.

Compression

ZIP (XML content)

Transparency

Supported

Best For:

  • Documents requiring editing
  • Collaborative writing
  • Templates and forms

Limitations:

  • Appearance may vary between different software
  • Not ideal for final distribution

PNG

.pngPortable Network Graphics

Lossless image format that supports transparency. Ideal for graphics, logos, and images with sharp edges or text.

Compression

Lossless (DEFLATE)

Transparency

Supported

Best For:

  • Logos and icons
  • Graphics with text
  • Images requiring transparency

Limitations:

  • Larger file sizes than JPEG for photos
  • Not ideal for photographs

JPG/JPEG

.jpg, .jpegJoint Photographic Experts Group

The most widely used image format for photographs. Uses lossy compression to achieve small file sizes.

Compression

Lossy (DCT)

Transparency

Not Supported

Best For:

  • Photographs
  • Web images
  • Social media posts

Limitations:

  • No transparency support
  • Quality degrades with each save

Conversion Matrix

See which conversions are currently supported by Shiftara.

FromToStatusAction
PDFDOCXAvailableConvert Now
DOCXPDFAvailableConvert Now
PNGJPGAvailableConvert Now
JPGPNGAvailableConvert Now
PDFPNGComing Soon
PDFJPGComing Soon

Quick Comparison

Documents: PDF vs DOCX

Choose PDF when sharing final documents that shouldn't be edited, especially for printing or official submissions.

Choose DOCX when you need to edit the document or collaborate with others using track changes.

Images: PNG vs JPG

Choose PNG for logos, graphics with text, screenshots, or when you need transparency.

Choose JPG for photographs or when file size is more important than perfect quality.

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