So, while vectors are ideal for scalable logos, typography, and design, they’re not the best choice for photographic images. In the example image above, the raster version of the photograph (on the left) looks best. The vector version of the image (on the right) is oversimplified, as vector programs visualize graphics in groups of solid colors. Raster images are ideal for photographic images, as they can capture a great deal of detail. However, they can be difficult to edit without losing quality, and they don’t scale well. Vector images, on the other hand, are much easier to edit and can be resized without any loss in quality.
- Each image can only contain a fixed number of pixels; the amount of pixels determines the quality of the image.
- However, once a vector image is loaded, it can be manipulated more quickly than a raster image.
- Though the Vector images are less detailed they offer precise paths.
- If you look closely at a scalar image you will see many equally sized squares.
- However, they can be difficult to edit without losing quality, and they don’t scale well.
- Shutterstock’s collection of images includes tons of scalable vector graphics and images available for download, like fonts, patterns, and illustrations.
Vector images are slower the more complex they are, so it takes longer for the computer to render them. However, once a vector image is loaded, it can be manipulated more quickly than a raster image. Take a look at the image of the black panther illustration below. As you can see from the zoomed-in views below, you can begin to see the individual pixels that make up the picture on the left, giving it a blurry – or pixelated – appearance. Meanwhile, no matter how much you zoom in on the panther on the right, you will always see smooth lines.
Raster vs. Vector: A Comprehensive Guide for Designers
In Raster images the resolution is made up of thousands of square pixels, pixels per inch (PPI) or dots per inch (DPI). Their size is always fixed so if you expand a Raster image it will become blurry. If you want to preserve the quality of a Raster image you can only scale down the image. It’ll be more flexible for scaling, easier to edit, and you won’t have to worry about the resolution being high enough for print (vector images have infinite resolution). The only way to know for sure is to open the file and get a close up look at part of the design. If you see the vector editing nodes, you’ve confirmed that it’s a vector graphic.
They’re made up of paths, which are lines that connect to form shapes. This is one of the main differences between raster and vector images. Vector and Raster graphics are two types of digital graphics used in various projects. The vector image consists of mathematical formulas that control the path of the image. While a raster image comprises of a series of individual colored pixels.
Raster vs Vector Graphics: Differences, Similarities and Best Uses
These are just a few examples, and there are many other raster image formats available, each with its own characteristics. When choosing a format, consider factors like image quality needs, file size limitations, and desired features like transparency or animation. Another handy design resource is Shutterstock Create, a free raster-based image editor that lets users create and edit high-quality images on any device. Vector graphics, on the other hand, are made up of plenty of paths, mathematically defined in terms of ratios, proportions, width, height, and other dimensions. Every time you resize a vector image, its lines, curves, and nodes are recalculated, so the resulting image remains sharp and clear.
Also, converting Raster to Vector is unnecessary as the printed images or photos captured with a digital camera are in Raster format. On the other hand, vector graphics are the math gurus of your creative circle. Need a logo that will look good on a business card and a large billboard? The vector format Graphics are used largely as source files for hard-edged graphics, logos, and drawings.
The Difference Between Vector Graphics and Raster Graphics
Because these graphics are not based on pixels, they are known as resolution independent, which makes them infinitely scalable. Their lines are sharp, without any loss in quality or detail, no matter what their size. These graphics are also device-independent, which means their quality doesn’t depend on the number of dots available on a printer or the number of pixels on a screen. Because they consist of lines and anchor points, the size of the file is relatively small. Raster graphics, commonly known as bitmaps, store visual information as a two-dimensional map of pixels.
A vector graphic’s small file size and scalability make it uniquely suitable for use in digital printing from business cards to billboards. They’re also used in lower thirds for videos, web-based objects and rendering 2D or 3D computer animation. Their native files are needed for coin designs, laser engraving, t-shirts, patches, etc. If your project requires scalable difference between raster and vector shapes and solid colors, vector is the best choice, but if your project requires complex color blends, raster is the preferred format. For this reason vector graphics are ideal for logos and other projects that need to remain sharp at multiple sizes. Converting a raster image to vector involves recreating the image completely, and this can get complicated.
What is the difference between raster vs. vector graphics?
On the other hand, raster file sizes are defined by their DPI or PPI, fixed widths, and heights, which makes them much heavier while containing less information. Apart from offering flexibility in terms of scalability, vector graphics also provide ease in duplication. This makes them perfect for businesses looking to create material such as logos, brochures, merchandise, and so on. Moreover, and more importantly, the time and energy that it will take to make a vector resemble a raster is not worth the underwhelming result.
We use algorithms that compress images to help reduce these file sizes. Image formats like jpeg and gif are common compressed image formats. Scaling down these images is easy but enlarging a bitmap makes it pixelated or simply blurred. Hence for images that need to scale to different sizes, we use vector graphics. Raster graphics, often known as bitmap graphics, are based on pixels.
The current version has been updated with new information and examples. Design like a pro with an AI-powered editing platform for the everyday creator. License this cover image via Westend61 on Offset, Lithiumphoto, olga_wanderer, and oxygen_8.
With so many photographs to pick from online, deciding which file types to use can take time and effort. Pixels compose raster pictures, whereas mathematical shapes and routes compose vector images. On the other hand, designs that are meant to be fully vector-based can become problematic when they contain raster data. While you will need a raster version of a logo for digital spaces, logos must be infinitely scalable and editable for the many other spaces they will inhabit. This necessitates a vector source file since pixels cannot be scaled or altered as easily. When a logo is designed with any raster data, converting it to vector can be difficult and often impossible (see next section).
How to Convert Raster Images to Vector Images
We’ll look at the nuances between raster vs. vector images and help you decide which format fits your project. Vector images, unlike rasters, can be indefinitely scaled and still retain their quality. Because of this feature, vector graphics are the primary choice for businesses when they need to design material for marketing campaigns. Raster images are compatible with all recognizable and popular software. This makes them suitable for mass use in multipurpose projects. Most of the images that you see on the internet are Raster images.
