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Raster vs Vector: Which Image Format Should You Use?

2/3/2026 · Graphics · 7 min

Raster vs Vector: Which Image Format Should You Use?

TL;DR

  • Raster images use pixels. Best for photos and detailed textures.
  • Vector images use math to describe shapes. Best for logos, icons, and scalable assets.
  • Use raster for complex imagery and photo editing. Use vector for sharp, scalable graphics that need to work at any size.

How they differ

  • Raster (PNG, JPEG, GIF, WebP)
  • Composed of a fixed grid of pixels.
  • Quality depends on resolution. Scaling up causes softening or pixelation.
  • Good for photos, detailed textures, and complex color gradients.
  • Vector (SVG, EPS, PDF)
  • Defined by points, lines, and curves. Scales indefinitely with no quality loss.
  • Smaller file sizes for simple shapes and flat color artwork.
  • Ideal for logos, icons, typography, and diagrams.

File sizes and performance

  • Raster size depends on pixel dimensions, bit depth, and compression.
  • Large photos at high resolution can be tens of megabytes.
  • Use modern formats like WebP for better compression on the web.
  • Vector files are often tiny for simple graphics but can grow when embedding complex raster elements or gradients.
  • For responsive websites:
  • Provide appropriately sized raster exports for each breakpoint.
  • Use SVG for UI elements and icons to reduce requests and improve crispness.

Editing workflows

  • Raster editing apps: Photoshop, GIMP, Affinity Photo.
  • Pixel-level control, layer effects, retouching tools.
  • Nondestructive workflows rely on layers and masks.
  • Vector editing apps: Illustrator, Inkscape, Affinity Designer.
  • Edit points, strokes, and fills. Good for layout systems and pattern generation.
  • Keep text as editable outlines where necessary for font independence.

When to choose raster

  • Photographs and images with complex color detail.
  • Texture maps and composite artwork.
  • When a target resolution is fixed and known, such as a social post or a photo gallery.

When to choose vector

  • Logos, icons, and UI assets that must scale across sizes.
  • Print materials that require crisp edges at large sizes, such as banners and signage.
  • When you need small file sizes for simple graphics.

Export tips for web and print

  • For web:
  • Use SVG for icons and logos when possible.
  • Export raster images at device pixel ratio for sharpness on high DPI screens.
  • Compress JPEGs for photos, use PNG for transparency, consider WebP for better size-quality tradeoffs.
  • For print:
  • Supply vector assets when possible. For raster, use 300 DPI at final print dimensions.
  • Embed color profiles and convert text to outlines only when finalizing.

Accessibility and SEO

  • SVG supports semantic markup and ARIA attributes. Use title and desc tags for accessibility.
  • Raster images need descriptive alt text and properly sized images for SEO and performance.

Checklist before delivery

  • Is the graphic going to scale? If yes, prefer vector.
  • Does it contain photographic detail? If yes, use raster.
  • Do you need transparency or animation? SVG supports both for vector use cases.
  • Are you targeting the web? Export multiple raster sizes and use responsive markup.
  • For print, start in vector or supply high resolution raster at 300 DPI.

Bottom line

Raster and vector each have clear strengths. Use raster where pixel detail matters, and use vector for anything that needs perfect scaling and small file size. When in doubt, keep source files for both formats and export the right asset for each target.

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