What is the difference between a vector file and a raster file?
Most non-designer business professionals deal with a variety of different file types throughout their work days. File types such as .pdf, .jpg, .png, .docx, perhaps even .gif. These are all super common and can be sent and downloaded relatively easily via email, Dropbox, FTP, websites, etc. Many people may not even think about file types on a daily basis, but when it comes to the design world, not all file types are created equally.
In this blog post, I’m going to explain the main differences between a vector and raster file type, what some examples of each are, and why it’s important to understand the differences.
Let’s start with the files you probably have the most experience with: raster files.
Raster Files
Raster files are composed of colored blocks called pixels. Each block contains one color, and you can have thousands of them in one image. If you look at the photograph below, think of it in terms of separate colors: whites, blacks, greens, pinks, etc. From a distance, it all looks seamless — but if you zoom in, you’ll start to see the actual pixels I speak of.
The majority of file types you deal with each day are probably raster files built of pixels - such as .jpg and .png files. Most .pdf files are also raster files (but can be vector depending on how they are built and saved, I know - a little confusing).
Raster files are best for photos, digital ads, and social media graphics as they can be saved at a smaller file size. Smaller file sizes are best for use online because they allow for faster load times. However, some raster files can be quite large as they are storing a LOT of pixel information. If you’ve ever worked with a photographer who has given you access to raw photo files, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
Raster file size has a lot to do with resolution, which is another term that people don’t always understand. Resolution simple refers to the amount of pixels in a file. So, for example - if you increase a 5x7” photo to 24x36” you’ll want to ensure that you have enough pixels to work with so that the image doesn’t look pixelated at a larger size.
Now let’s talk about vector files!
Vector Files
Vectors are built using mathematical formulas and ratios. The biggest benefit of vector files is that because of the mathematical makeup, you can enlarge vectors to be any size without losing any quality. However, this also means that those files can be very large. Logos should always be created in a vector program because of this! If your graphic designer does not build logos in a vector program, I would be very wary of working with them. Using vector files for logo designs is always best practice! Think about all the ways your logo is used - placed on a large vehicle, a highway billboard, on a t-shirt, small on an app icon, on your website, etc. Having a vector file will always give you the flexibility you need!
It’s also much easier for a designer to edit a logo that is built in a vector program (such as Illustrator) than a raster program (such as Photoshop). We often call these “working files.”
Aside from logo designs, vector files are best for building out things like infographics (but are not always necessary), and digital illustrations. Typical vector file types you may run into are .ai (Adobe Illustrator), .eps, .svg, and some PDFs.
Takeaways
When I design logos for my clients, I always supply them with lots of different file types. I’d rather my clients have too many to choose from than to not have what they need. If you work with another graphic designer, at least make sure that they provide you a vector file of your logo!
I hope this blog post clears up any questions you may have! I think the biggest takeaway from this is to not be afraid to ask your designer questions. “What file type is best for this project?” or “Do you supply vector files of the logos you design?” are both great things to ask potential graphic designers.
If you’re interested in working together, I’d love to chat more about your project and see if we’re a good fit for one another!
