Raster vs Vector Graphics
Raster vs vector graphics explained – discover the pros, cons, file types, and best uses of each to elevate your brand’s visual impact.
Raster and vector graphics are everywhere you look, seen on packaging, signage, websites, and marketing materials. Knowing the difference helps ensure each is used where it works best.
Brian’s Notes
When working with a designer or print provider, you might not always know what file types are needed, and that’s okay. It’s our job to ask for the right files and explain why they matter.
For example, if we request vector artwork, it’s because vector files can be scaled to any size without quality loss. That makes them ideal for signs, banners, and other large format prints.
When it comes to raster images, we may ask for specific dimensions or resolution. Files grabbed from websites or social media are often low-resolution, too small or compressed, which can lead to
blurry or fuzzy prints.
If you’re unsure what you have, just let us know. We will be happy to guide you through the process. Clear communication and the right files help make sure your project looks its best from start to finish.
The Basics OF Raster & Vector Graphics
WHAT ARE RASTER GRAPHICS
Raster graphics are made of pixels, where the individual pixels have their own color. The image below shows a stone post on the left. The right side shows what a section of the blue-gray stone is made up of when enlarged 2885%. Each of the little squares is a pixel arranged in a grid.
- Common File Types: jpeg, png, gif, bmp, tiff
- Composition: made up of pixels
- Resolution: loses quality when scaled up
- File Size: file sizes can get large
- Created By: cameras, scanners, and editing software like Adobe Photoshop
WHAT ARE VECTOR GRAPHICS
Vector graphics use paths and mathematical formulas to create geometric shapes like lines, curves, and polygons to make up the graphic. The image on the left below is the SmartFox brand mark, which is a vector graphic. The image on the right is scaled up and remains just as sharp.
- Common File Types: SVG, ai, eps, pdf
- Composition: made up of paths and mathematical formulas
- Resolution: scales up without loss of quality
- File Sizes: file size is usually smaller
- Created By: Graphics software like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW
EDITING GRAPHICS
You can edit raster images using photo editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop, or online with Canva. To edit or create vector graphics, you can use software such as Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW
BEST USES
Vector graphics are well-suited for logos, icons, illustrations, diagrams, and infographics. Raster graphics are best for photographs, complex images, detailed web graphics, and textured or shaded artwork.
Bonus Tips
Here are a few more pointers to help you work smarter with raster and vector files:
- Know What You’re Sending – Check if the file is raster or vector before sending it to a designer or printer.
- Don’t Enlarge Raster Files – Avoid scaling up raster images, as they can become pixelated and blurry.
- Make Sure Raster Images Have Enough Resolution – For high-quality prints, printers recommend 300 dots per inch (DPI) at the size in which you intend to print it. For example 300dpi at 6″x4″
- Use Vector for Logos – Keep a vector version of your logo on hand for scalable use across all media.
- Ask for Source Files – Request the original vector or high-resolution files for future flexibility.
- Double-Check File Formats – A PDF or EPS isn’t always vector; it depends on how it was created.
- Be Mindful of the Software You Choose to Work in – If you open a vector file in photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop, you may inadvertently rasterize your vector file.
- Create Text in a Vector-Based Program – Use Adobe Illustrator or Adobe InDesign to avoid rasterized text, which can lead to copy that isn’t sharp and easy to read.