Raster vs Vector Files: Key Differences and When To Use Them

20 Mar Raster vs Vector Files: Key Differences and When To Use Them

Booklet printing features valuables product information (vector) with the product images (raster) you can adjust, reshape it whichever way you want. So we can conclude there are different purposes for using both raster and vector images. A raster image is a common term used in the field of computers and digital photography. It is represented in the form of a rectangular grid of pixels which are viewable using a bitmapped display. However, when it comes to increasing or decreasing the size and resolution, it is a bit challenging. Vector graphics are digital images made up of mathematical equations defining lines, curves, and forms.

• Vector images are mathematical calculations from one point to another that form lines and shapes.
• So, while vectors are ideal for scalable logos, typography, and design, they’re not the best choice for photographic images.
• Without losing quality vectors can be infinitely scaled and it is best to use them for logo design, illustration, engraving, etching, product artwork, etc.
• The only way to know for sure is to open the file and get a close up look at part of the design.
• 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.
• EPS files are also helpful for large posters, flex banners, and other marketing collaterals that require fine printing.

Raster files are made up of pixels, are best to use when working with photographs, and typically larger files. Unlike raster graphics, vector files are smaller and best for logos, type, and geometric design. A vector image’s formulaic makeup keeps file sizes to a minimum in comparison to its raster counterparts. This comes in handy when there are restrictions to file sizes or image storage.

Raster Images

That is because raster files include information about each pixel in the graphic. Compression techniques can mitigate this issue, although if space is a major concern these graphics may present you with a challenge. Typical raster graphic file formats include .bmp, .gif, .jpeg, .jpg, .png, .psd, and .tif. Vectors are usually used to design graphics using simple and solid colors.

Vector programs can also take longer to render objects with more complexity, such as a photograph or landscape. Vector graphics are infinitely scalable and ideal for various uses — from the smallest web icon to the largest billboard. Vector file sizes are typically smaller, enabling easier file storage and faster load speeds. Previous difference between raster and vector installments of this guide have covered vector graphics in great detail, from information about how vector graphics work to learning what it takes to become a vector artist. This chapter will provide more tips and insights about raster images to help you choose the best file format for your next graphic design project.

Survive and Thrive In The Design Process

The resolution of a raster image is however dictated by the number of pixels in every inch. Thus, the more pixels present per inch(PPI), the better the resolution and vice versa. Therefore, to ensure your raster-based images are of the best quality possible, use more pixels. You will, nonetheless, need a bigger disk as more pixels in an image mean that it’ll use more disk space.

But if your project requires minimal details and may need to be scaled in the future, then vector images suit you better. Whichever format rocks your world, it’s also wise to have a high-quality program for media conversion such as Movavi Video Converter. For photos you need raster images and Adobe Photoshop; for letterhead, text, logos, and other simple graphic elements, you need vector images and Adobe Illustrator. If you’re not totally sure which kind of graphic to use, follow these guidelines. If you’re editing photos with multiple colors, choose raster images.

Can we enlarge the pixel dimension & resolution of a raster image?

You can find a raster image with so many pixels square (like a mosaic) and they are arranged to create raster images. You might be familiar with the word resolution, high resolution, etc. do you want to realize ever what is that resolution? Resolutions are also pixels and pixels are a set grid of dots, so when we say high-resolution images that means, the image contains a greater number of pixels per unit.

If you’re drawing something with a limited number of colors, choose vector images. You can also create a project that uses both photos and logos, or both kinds of graphics. Choosing the wrong format can result in a loss of quality—a degradation of individual pixels that lowers image resolution. That’s why it’s essential for graphic designers to be comfortable with both formats and understand how they translate when exported. With that in mind, here’s everything you need to know about working with raster and vector files. Understanding the difference between raster and vector programs and mastering the ins and outs of raster vs. vector image formats will help you create your best digital work.

How are raster images and vector graphics different?

The larger the image, the more disk space the image file will take up. 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.

They’re made of paths and curves dictated by mathematical formulas. These paths and curves are produced exclusively through software designed for vectors, like Adobe Illustrator or Sketch. Due to their algorithmic makeup, vectors are infinitely scalable, and remain smooth and crisp even when sized up to massive dimensions. Even when scaled to substantial proportions, the pattern below remains clean and exact. Elements like fonts render the same way—when sized up or down, they retain their quality. Other examples include postcards printing that have an illustrated background (vector) and the highest resolution possible.

Product

Because they are not composed of pixels, they can keep sharpness with any size. Their quality does not depend on the number of dots on a printer or the number of pixels on a screen. Raster, or bitmap, images consist of tiny squares—pixels—that contain bits of color. When you zoom in on an image, the pixels become more apparent while the details of the image become blurry.

A raster graphic, such as a gif or jpeg, is an array of pixels of various colors, which together form an image. A vector image, on the other hand, is resolution-independent. It thereby displays at whatever resolution capability the printer or output device renders.

Generally speaking, vector images are made up of paths or line art that can infinitely scalable because they work based on algorithms rather than pixels. Meanwhile, raster images consist of an abundance of pixels, which makes their size substantial. In other words, larger dimensions and more detailed images equal bigger file sizes. It can be a concern if there are restrictions on image storage or upload file size.