Guide to File Types
We get it, file types are confusing AF and it’s hard to know what file type is good for what purpose and more. We’ve broken them down into a few top file types for you to learn some of the key differences between them.
JPG
JPEG/Joint Photographic Experts Group - The file is similar to a .PNG in that it is a raster format, however it does not support alpha channels, so your logo will not have a transparent backgound.
The advantage of a .JPG file is that it tends to be more compressed than its .PNG counterpart, meaning a smaller file size that takes up less space.
PNG
Portable Network Graphics - A lossless raster format that supports alpha channels, allowing your logo to have a transparent background.
This file is best when utilized on anything with a digital display, like websites, social media and mobile applications.
The transparent background means your logo will lay nicely on top of which backdrop you lay it on.
SVG
Scalable Vector Graphic — The editable source file and a true vector format that allows infinite re-sizing without quality loss.
This format functions virtually the same as an Adobe Illustrator (.AI) file does, the only difference being that the .AI format is a trademark of Adobe which can only be utilized by Adobe software.
The .SVG format can be used universally with any vector graphics software, including Illustrator, Inkscape and CorelDraw.
EPS
Encapsulated PostScript - It is a vector format that is considered the best choice of graphics format for high resolution printing.
Vectors are used for large-scale printing like billboards or building decal wraps, and the EPS file format is commonly used.
It can be opened and edited in illustration programs such as Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW.
Portable Document Format - Another editable source file which functions similarly the .SVG.
Much like the .SVG format, this file can be opened and edited with any vector graphics application, including Illustrator, Inkscape and CorelDraw.
