Raster VS Vector Logos: What You Need To Know
When it comes to getting a logo for your website you have to think about a lot of different things. But never underestimate the importance of the format. When it comes to the graphical format you have two main options raster and vector.
Yes, both sound like quite futuristic terms don’t they? But both raster and vector formats have been used for several years. While they do the same job, they are both very different so let’s contrast and compare them.
1. Raster Graphics For Logos
Raster graphics are made up of pixels and in some circles are known as bitmap images. Thousands of pixels are usually used to make up raster images, especially more complex ones. If you zoom in on raster graphics you can sometimes make out the outline of the pixels.
Raster graphics are used online but this doesn’t mean they’ll be the best option for a logo. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of raster graphics so you can see exactly what they offer.
1.1 Raster Pros
Because they are made up of what are essentially tiny squares you do get some unique benefits to using raster graphics.
1.1.1 Detailed: The biggest benefit of raster graphics is that they offer amazing detail. Because they are made of pixels you can create some amazing logo designs although these will take time to create.
1.1.2 In-Depth Editing: You will usually have a lot more room to personalize/ edit raster graphics which can help you create a more unique logo.
1.2 Raster Cons
So, now you know the pros what about the cons? Raster graphics definitely have their uses but like all things, there are some potential downsides to consider when it comes to deciding whether to use them for your logo.
1.2.1 Image Quality Issues: Pixelization and blurriness are common problems with raster graphics if they aren’t scaled correctly.
1.2.2 Larger File Size: Raster graphic logos generally have a much larger file size than vector graphics. This can cause websites to slow down when loading them, especially if there are many of them on a page.
2. Vector Graphics For Logos
If you want to vectorize a logo then you need to know exactly what makes a vector graphic different, don’t you? The main difference is that vector graphics are made up of lines and curves instead of pixels.
These lines and curves are called paths, these connect across the X and Y axes like in a vector graph. More specialist software is used to create vector graphics which essentially build a wireframe to design the logo.
Just like with raster graphics you can notice vector graphics if you examine them closely. If you look at the edges vector graphics will always be smooth. They’ll be no visible outline like with pixels and the image won’t lose clarity if you zoom in or out. Let’s examine the pros and cons of vector graphics in more detail.
2.1 Vector Pros
If you want to vectorize a logo then it’s essential you know the benefits of using vector graphics. So, let’s take a look at the pros in more detail.
2.1.1 Smaller File Size: Vector graphics will usually have a much smaller file size making them better suited for websites.
2.1.2 Scalable: Unlike raster graphics, if you vectorize a logo it can be scaled without any loss of clarity.
2.1.3 Printed Media: Because they don’t lose clarity a vector graphic file is going to be much better suited for printed media which is ideal for business logos.
2.2 Vector Cons
So, now you know the pros what about the cons? There are some great benefits to using vector graphics but what potential downsides do you need to consider?
2.2.1 Compatibility: Vector graphic files aren’t compatible with every program. This can cause issues when it comes to editing them.
2.2.2 Detail: While a vector logo can certainly look very good a professionally made raster graphic will still offer more room for detail.
3. Raster Or Vector Which Is Best For A Logo?
So, what do we think is the best format for making your next logo? Well, we have to give it to vector while raster does have its uses we have to conclude that vector offers the best overall package. The vector format is just far more flexible and versatile.
With the vector format, you can easily adjust your logo design. Utilizing a vector logo on printed media will be easier and look much more attractive as well. Across both digital and printed media, the vector format offers the best benefits overall.
When you vectorize a logo it will look much clearer, be easier to adjust/edit and can be reproduced through printed media without issue. So, if you are struggling to choose a format for your business logo we think going with vector is for the best.
