Designing the graphics without actually recognizing the difference between vector and raster images is not a cakewalk. There are many professional designers who still get confused about how to put the best with the right type of image. That's why many of you landed on this article to get a clear understanding of vector or raster images.

Well! You are at the right place. 

By the end of this article, you will get to know which file to use and what's the difference. This experience is an intimate part of the design by knowing which you can create stunning designs that catch the viewer's eye.       

If you are looking to create motion graphics, character animation, or any other videos, this blog might be very useful for you. Now, without any further ado, let's take a look to know which graphic file to use for your next video.

Vector vs Raster Files for Graphics

Vector file

A vector file is composed of lines and points which can be scaled up and down for creating a path without losing the quality. This vector file is highly suited for graphic assets such as icons and company logos

The same file is often used for designs starting from a mobile app to an outsized billboard without actually affecting the quality or increasing file size.

All the vector images retain their appearance irrespective of their size. Vector-based file has the most m quotes that are used daily without realizing this is the font file where each letter is a vector graphic. 

You can boost the size of the text, zoom in as much as you want and further utilize it online as in a word database.

Online graphics are still beam-based. The beginning of vector-based SVG files allows logo images and icon elements to be used in apps and web development.

It is one of the most important factors while moving forward with a balanced site design because the layout and design elements are adjusted to fit various screen sizes and resolutions like retina displays. 

Raster Files

A raster image is created by using many small dots, what we call pixels, and these are often referred to as bitmap shapes. In this file, individual pixels are seen when zoomed in closely.

All the digital graphic files created generally fall into two categories, including vector graphics such as logo files which use complex text made up of dots and lines for creating an image, and raster graphics, such as digital images, which are created by using a grid of tiny pixels.

The resolution of the raster file is referred to as dpi or ppi, where the file size is determined to increase.

Essentially all digital images are raster-based, and graphics are found online. Also, a raster-based screen resolution of 72 dpi is saved from being used in printed material where the quality resolution is 300 dpi.

Now, let's have a look at each factor that will make you more clear with both the graphics. 

How are Vector and Raster Image Graphics Different? 

Well! There are basically three different factors on the basis of which you can easily understand the difference between raster images and vector graphics. 

File Type and Size 

When it comes to raster file type, then it is included in the form of JPG, PNG, TIF, GIF, BMP, and PSD. In contrast, vector files are shared in the form of AI, SVG, and CDR. But one common thing in both styles is that it is rendered in PDF and EPS format. 

For creating vector images, you can utilize CorelDraw, Adobe Illustrator, and Inkscape. In comparison, raster graphics are created by using Photoshop and GIMP. The file extension also surprised us, as shared below: 

Real Life Representation

With the help of vectors, it becomes difficult to do real-life photography. Also, it would be challenging to change the colors. At this time, you need a new shape for creating.  

If you go with vectors, then you can add a rasterized effect. Now, if I talk about rasterized images, then you can easily go with rendering real-life graphics. Just like vectors, it's also limited via resolution and dimensional size. 

Pixels

Pixels are one of the best factors that help you distinguish between vector and raster graphics. Suppose you think that raster images can be scaled without sacrificing the quality, then no. If you enlarge a raster image, then it will get blurry. So, if you want to maintain quality, you need to focus a lot on resolution. 

But on the other hand, you can easily scale vector graphics without actually affecting the resolution. If you zoom on the images, you can see each pixel in the raster file, but the vector file looks smooth. Yes, you read it right; the resolution is not a problem. 

In one particular image, a raster image displays a myriad of colors. In comparison, vector images are highly scalable.

When to use Vector or Raster? 

Well! Both the images can be used as per the requirements. I would recommend you if you want to create photos, then I would recommend you to go with raster. But if you want to create logos,  product artwork, signage, illustrations, engravings, etchings, and embroidery, then you prefer creating vector graphics. 

There are many projects in which you can use both the raster and vector images. So, it totally depends on what you need and how you need to showcase it. 

Also, if you want to design a project that needs complex color blends, then you can go with the preferred format. 

The Final Word

Graphic software has come a long way in the last few years. Raster-based images can be embedded in Adobe Illustrator, whereas vectors can also be made in Photoshop. 

Keeping this in mind, you can also consult the graphic designer once. Make sure the designer provides a vector file of the logo when your logo is updated. It will help you make the right decision at the best choice. 

You might also be interested in checking out logo animations and different types of videos

So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and understand what style of graphic design you need to create. You can easily make visitors land on your video or image if you have a clear understanding. Need any help? Feel free to contact us. 

                                                                                                                        Editor: Divya

Frequently Asked Questions

The choice between learning raster or vector graphics largely depends on your specific needs and goals. Raster graphics are ideal for working with photographs and detailed images, as they capture fine nuances of color and shading. On the other hand, vectors excel at creating clean, scalable, and precise graphics, making them more suitable for logos, illustrations, and design work.

Vectors offer several advantages, including scalability without loss of quality, sharp and clean lines, and the ability to easily edit and modify shapes and colors. They are particularly valuable when creating graphics that need to be resized frequently or when precision is crucial.

Drawing in vector format can be advantageous for many design tasks. Vector tools allow you to create smooth, editable paths and shapes, making it easier to achieve clean and professional-looking results. Additionally, vector drawings are well-suited for projects that require precision and the ability to make changes without losing quality.

Vector images are known for their high quality. They are resolution-independent, meaning they can be scaled up or down without any loss of detail or sharpness. This makes them an excellent choice for any application where image quality is a priority, such as logos, icons, and print media. However, it's essential to note that vector images may not be suitable for all types of visuals, such as photographs, which are better represented in raster format.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *