Which file format is best suited for high-quality images with no compression?

The best file format for high-quality images with no compression is TIF, which stands for Tagged Image File Format. This format is widely used in professional photography and publishing because it supports lossless compression or can store images in an uncompressed format. This ensures that the image retains its original quality without any loss of detail, which is crucial for high-resolution prints and archiving.

TIF files can also store a large amount of color depth and support various color spaces, making them highly versatile for different applications. Its ability to maintain quality over multiple edits and saves is another reason it is favored among professionals in fields that require precision and clarity.

In contrast, the other formats have specific limitations: JPEG uses lossy compression, which reduces file size at the expense of quality; PNG, while lossless, is typically used for web graphics rather than high-resolution photographs; and GIF is limited to a palette of 256 colors, making it unsuitable for high-quality photographic images. Choosing TIF is ideal for scenarios where image quality is paramount.