What is a vector image?
A vector image stores shapes, not pixels: each outline is a list of points joined by straight lines and curves, filled with a color. Because the shapes are math, a vector stays sharp at any size, and each color and outline can be edited on its own. SVG, EPS, AI and PDF are vector formats; PNG, JPG and WEBP are raster (pixel) formats.
How is a vector different from a raster image?
| Raster (PNG, JPG, WEBP) | Vector (SVG, EPS, AI, PDF) | |
|---|---|---|
| Made of | A grid of colored pixels | Shapes: points, lines and curves |
| Enlarged | Blurs or turns blocky | Stays sharp at any size |
| Editing | Repaint pixels | Change a color or move a shape |
| Best for | Photos, painted art | Logos, icons, type, illustrations |
| Print and cutting | Small digital prints only | Screen printing, signs, vinyl, laser, embroidery digitizing |
Which file formats are vector?
- SVG: the open web standard; Figma, Illustrator, Inkscape, Cricut and browsers read it.
- PDF: vector when it was saved from a vector program; a scanned PDF is pixels.
- EPS: the older print-shop exchange format.
- AI: Adobe Illustrator files.
- DXF: CAD and laser-cutting outlines.
A file can carry the right extension and still hold pixels inside. See is my SVG a real vector.
What are nodes, and why do they matter?
Nodes (anchor points) are the points an outline passes through. A clean vector uses few: long smooth curves between true corners. A poor trace uses thousands, which makes the file heavy, slow to edit, wobbly when enlarged and jerky to cut. The example on this page shows the node count we measured for its mark.
How do I turn a raster image into a vector?
Trace it: online with a vectorizer, or in Illustrator or Inkscape. The steps for all three are in how to vectorize an image.
When is SVGProof the wrong tool?
- Photos are raster by nature. Converting one to a vector does not make it better; keep the original at high resolution.
Questions
Is PNG a vector?
No. PNG is a raster format, even when its background is transparent.
Is SVG always a vector?
Usually, but an SVG can wrap a PNG. Open it in a text editor and search for "<image": if it appears, there are pixels inside.
Can I make a vector from my logo?
Yes, by tracing it. Upload it on the PNG to SVG page.
Checked against the product on 2026-11-04. Numbers are measured by the engine, prices come from the checkout. This page as Markdown · Facts with sources