Both profile pictures and display pictures are images that represent a person online, but there are some key differences between the two. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right image for your various social media and online accounts.
What is a Profile Picture?
A profile picture, also known as an avatar, is the main image associated with an online account. It appears next to the account holder’s username on their profile or account page.
On most social media platforms and discussion forums, users are required to upload a profile picture when they create their account. This helps other users easily identify them and adds a personal touch to their profile.
Some common places where you will see profile pictures include:
- Next to your username on your Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or other social media profiles
- Next to forum posts and comments on discussion platforms like Reddit and Quora
- Next to your email messages in webmail clients like Gmail and Outlook
- Next to your username in work chat apps like Slack or Microsoft Teams
- Next to comments on blogs and news websites
Profile pictures are tied to your online identity and account. Changing your profile photo will update it across all platforms and pages associated with that account.
What is a Display Picture?
A display picture, sometimes called a cover photo, is a large header image displayed at the top of a user’s social media profile or page. It serves as decorative background image behind the profile picture and other info.
Display pictures are most common on visual social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. These sites encourage users to upload cover photos to personalize their profiles.
On some sites like Facebook, the display picture spans the entire width of the page. On others like Instagram, it is cropped into a square shape. Display pictures help express interests, hobbies, personality, or beliefs.
Differences Between Profile Pictures and Display Pictures
While both profile pictures and display pictures represent users online, there are some important differences:
1. Size
The most obvious difference is size. A profile picture is small, usually around 200×200 pixels. Display pictures are much larger, at least 600×350 pixels up to high resolutions like 820×312 pixels.
2. Purpose
Profile pictures serve mainly to identify users. Display pictures are more about customizing the look and feel of the profile.
3. Visibility
Profile pictures are shown consistently next to every post and interaction. Display pictures only appear on the profile itself.
4. Quantity
Users can only have one profile picture active at a time per account. But most platforms allow multiple display pictures to be uploaded and rotated through over time.
5. Context
Profile pictures appear in tight vertical space alongside text and other UI elements. Display pictures occupy a large horizontal block without other elements.
6. Flexibility
Profile pictures are tightly cropped around the subject. But display pictures can use a variety of designs: close-ups, landscapes, patterns, quotes, artwork, etc.
Tips for Choosing Profile vs. Display Pictures
Here are some tips to follow when selecting profile and display pictures for social media:
For profile pictures:
- Use a clear, high-quality headshot of your face
- Pick a friendly, approachable facial expression
- Ensure your whole face is visible, not cut off
- Look directly at the camera for an engaging image
- Avoid busy backgrounds that are distracting
- Be consistent across platforms for recognizability
- Update it every year or so to stay current
For display pictures:
- Choose an interesting landscape, pattern, or graphic
- Pick images related to your hobbies or interests
- Use inspirational quotes or your own photography
- Avoid cluttered or confusing designs
- Be sure the image conveys the mood you want
- Change it periodically for variety
Examples of Profile vs. Display Pictures
Here are some examples comparing profile and display pictures on social media profiles:
| Platform | Profile Picture | Display Picture |
|---|---|---|
Conclusion
In summary, profile pictures and display pictures both represent users visually online. But profile pictures are all about identifying the account owner in a small icon, while display pictures allow for customized designs and backgrounds to decorate one’s profile. Keep these differences in mind when selecting images that reflect your personal brand across social media.
Some key points to remember are:
- Profile pictures are small, focused on the face, consistent across platforms
- Display pictures are larger, more flexible in design, and can change periodically
- Profile pictures help identify users, display pictures customize and personalize profiles
- Use clear headshots for profile pictures, interesting graphics and photos for displays
Following these best practices for your profile and display pictures will help you present your best image on social media and online accounts.