Which file type is known for being a compressed format that facilitates faster loading of images without losing quality?

The choice of PNG as the correct answer is based on its ability to provide lossless compression, which means it reduces file size without sacrificing image quality. PNG, which stands for Portable Network Graphics, uses advanced compression techniques that allow for high-quality images, making it an excellent choice for web graphics and images where clarity is essential. This format supports transparency and can be used in various applications that require high-fidelity images.

In contrast to PNG, while GIF is also a compressed format, it is limited in color depth and does not support as many colors as PNG, which can compromise image quality in certain scenarios. ZIP is a file compression format that could be used to compress various types of files, but it is not specifically designed for images and does not facilitate image loading. SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is a vector format rather than a compressed bitmap format and is often used for graphics that scale without loss of quality but does not inherently compress raster images like PNG does. Thus, PNG is a clear choice for users looking for compressed image files that maintain high quality.