Why are PNG files so SLOW to save all of the sudden? Why do PNGs corrupt unless I save as smallest

[Hugh Betcha]

It wasn't always this way, but after some PS updates, when I save a .png file, it corrupts *unless* I save it as 'smallest file size' .png version, however doing so takes a ridiculously long time lately - is this happening to anyone else?

[Sameer K · Accepted solution]

Hey, @Hugh Betcha. I'll help you figure this out. Please share the system info from Photoshop Help > System info > Copy & paste into a text document > upload & attach here.

Are you using Export As, Quick Export, or File > Save as? Are you doing a batch save with using Actions or Scripts?

Go to the location of the preference folder mentioned below and rename it to back up. (https://adobe.ly/3u7u84j)
macOS: Hold down the Option key in the Finder when using the Go menu. The library will appear below the current user's home directory.

Library > Preferences > Adobe Photoshop [version] Settings

Rename the Adobe Photoshop folder by adding a .old at the end. (Adobe Photoshop 2024 > Rename > Adobe Photoshop 2024.old)

This will give a fresh start to Photoshop as a fresh installation.

Let me know if it helps. Thanks!
Sameer K

[Hugh Betcha · Accepted solution]

Thanks, I tried that, and it is *maybe* a bit faster, but maybe the issue is due to the fact that our IT has kept us on iOS Monterey 12.6.3, which may not work well with PS.

[mondoblondo123 · Accepted solution]

This has been an issue for me for YEARS. It does not matter the version of Photoshop, the computer hardware or OS, the amount of RAM, processor, etc. I have used Photoshop on multiple systems with up to 32GB of RAM, speedy processors, fast GPU, etc., and it doesn't matter. Saving as "smallest file size" has always meant "longest wait in history". It's not isolated and there are no constants in any of it other than Photoshop. I can export from Illustrator in seconds, pull the file into Photoshop to reduce or manipulate it in some way, and then wait for the same file to save as a smaller version for 20 minutes. Even if I make no changes and do a "save as", the same thing happens. I create building graphics at 10% scale and have to be able to send proofs that are both readable and small enough for the client to download. I sometimes need to reduce those further for other uses but Photoshop PNG wait times kill me every time.