The best logo format depends on where the logo is going. Use vector files (AI, EPS, SVG or PDF) for printing, signs, vehicles and embroidery because they scale without losing quality, and use raster files (PNG or JPG) for screens, documents and social media. A transparent PNG is the everyday file most people need; an SVG is best for websites.
When a logo project finishes, you receive a folder full of files with unfamiliar extensions. Then a printer asks for “vector,” your web developer wants an SVG, and Instagram rejects your EPS. This guide explains each format in plain language so you always send the right one.
Vector vs raster in one minute
Vector files store your logo as paths and curves. They can be resized infinitely with no blur, and colors can be changed exactly. Raster files store the logo as pixels. They are perfect for screens at the right size, but they blur or pixelate when enlarged.
Adobe Illustrator
Vector. The editable master file.
Encapsulated PostScript
Vector. Widely accepted by print and sign vendors.
Scalable Vector Graphics
Vector. Built for websites and apps.
Portable Document Format
Vector when exported from Illustrator. Easy to share.
Portable Network Graphics
Raster. Supports a transparent background.
JPEG
Raster. Small files, no transparency.
AI (Adobe Illustrator)
The original working file your designer creates. It keeps layers, editable text and exact colors. Keep it safe: it is the file a future designer will need to update your logo. You need Illustrator (or a compatible program) to open it.
EPS
An older, widely supported vector format. Sign shops, screen printers, embroidery digitizers and promotional product companies often ask for EPS. It opens in most professional design programs.
SVG
The best logo format for websites. SVG files stay razor sharp on high-resolution phone screens, are usually tiny in file size and can be styled with code. Most website builders, including WordPress, support SVG with the right settings.
A PDF exported from Illustrator keeps the vector artwork inside, so many printers accept it. It is also the easiest format to open on any computer, which makes it a good file to send when you are not sure what a vendor needs.
PNG (transparent background)
The file you will use most day to day: on slides, documents, email signatures, social media and websites. A transparent PNG has no white box behind the logo, so it sits cleanly on colored backgrounds. Ask for a large version (at least 2000 pixels wide) as well as smaller ones.
JPG
A compressed raster file with a solid background. Fine for profile photos and quick sharing, but avoid it for printing and never use it where you need transparency.
Which file for which job?
| Where it is going | Send this |
|---|---|
| Storefront or yard sign | AI, EPS or PDF |
| Vehicle wrap or truck lettering | AI or EPS |
| Embroidered shirts and hats | AI or EPS (digitizer creates a stitch file) |
| Screen-printed T-shirts | AI, EPS or PDF with spot colors |
| Business cards and flyers | PDF or AI |
| Website header | SVG, or a large transparent PNG |
| Social media profile | PNG or JPG, square |
| Word, PowerPoint or Google Docs | Transparent PNG |
Color modes: RGB, CMYK and Pantone
RGB is for screens. CMYK is for most printing. Pantone (spot) colors are exact ink matches used for consistent printing on signs, apparel and packaging. A professional logo package includes values for all three so your orange looks the same on a truck and on a website.
What if I only have a PNG or JPG?
Many businesses discover this when a printer rejects their file. The fix is to have the logo redrawn as vector artwork. We do this every day through our logo vectorization service, including logos that started in AI tools.
FAQs
What is the difference between PNG and SVG?
PNG is made of pixels and has a fixed size. SVG is vector, so it stays sharp at any size and is usually smaller. Use SVG on websites and PNG for documents and social media.
What is the best logo format for printing?
A vector file: AI, EPS or a vector PDF. Ask your printer which they prefer.
Why can’t I open my EPS or AI file?
They need design software such as Adobe Illustrator. Use the PDF or PNG versions for everyday viewing.
Every logo we design comes with AI, EPS, SVG, PDF, PNG and JPG files. Start a custom logo.
