Vector files are source files that are popularly used for logos, icons, charts, and other graphics. These files are used frequently by businesses and companies because they can be resized without altering the quality of the image. If you’ve ever printed a file only to find your images had a distorted border, odds are you should have used a vector file.
The different files types for a vector file include .ai, .eps, .pdf, and .svg. This guide will address the benefits of each of the different vector file formats so you can decide which is best for your particular design project. For a deeper look into the benefits and uses for vector file formats, you might want to check out this page here.
AI
Adobe Illustrator uses the AI format for exporting projects. This format is a modified version of the older EPS format, but it is still widely used. Today, most programs use .eps over .ai, and most designers will likely suggest using .eps rather than AI. The AI format is commonly used by designers who prefer to work in Adobe Illustrator, and it is mainly a personal preference.
EPS
EPS stands for Encapsulated Post-Script and it’s a very common vector file format. EPS is commonly used for logos because they are compatible with a number of popular programs like Adobe Illustrator and Adobe InDesign. While older than the AI format, EPS is still one of the most popular vector file formats and many designers choose it over others.
PDF stands for Portable Document Format and it is probably the most easily recognizable vector file format. A great way to think of PDF files is as images of documents which can be opened on any system that has a PDF compatible reader.
PDFs can preserve the placement of text and images on a page for printing, and it can also be used for logos and graphics. Most printers handle PDF documents and files, so this is a great choice especially for text heavy projects.
SVG
SVG literally means Scalable Vector Graphic, and it is a popular choice for logos and company projects. The main difference in SVGs over other vector file types is its size. It’s generally a much smaller file than other formats so it can help with web performance and storage space. SVG is a common choice for web graphics because they are easy to manipulate with CSS and Javascript.
Vector Art
Without quality artwork, promotional strategies of a business wouldn’t be very effective at promoting a brand. Vector art is a specific technique, which uses curves, shapes, lines and points to create a mathematical, computer-ready image. Using vector art for your branded products is a great way to preserve quality. If you aren’t an expert in digital art, it is worth learning the different advantages of working with vector file types. A skilled graphic designer will understand which vector types is best for your particular design needs so you never have to sacrifice quality.
Now that you’ve become more educated on the matter, no longer will you feel confused every time someone asks you to send something in a ‘vector’ format. To summarize, the reasons why you should have your designs in a vector format are:
- It can be manipulated better, which will lead to more creative options;
- It can be separated or extracted from the background. Furthermore, background elements can be pulled apart;
- Colors can be altered;
- It can be used on stationery designs;
- It can be used for other print materials, such as brochures, business cards, envelopes, etc.;
- The colors can be set up to be printed consistently from any commercial printer;
- It can be scaled to fit a billboard without compromising the quality;
- It can be created in outlines so the font never loads differently.