What is the difference between raster and vector art?
Raster art
Raster images are composed of a grid of individual pixels, each with a specific color. Common raster formats include JPEG, PNG, and PSD. Because they're pixel-based, enlarging a raster image too much causes pixelation, where individual squares become visible and edges look jagged.
Raster is ideal for digital painting, photo editing, and any artwork with complex color blends and textures. Programs like Photoshop, Krita, and Procreate are raster-based. The resolution (measured in pixels per inch, or PPI) determines how much detail an image can hold.
- Made of pixels.
- Resolution-dependent: scaling up reduces quality.
- Best for photos, paintings, and detailed textures.
- Common formats: JPEG, PNG, GIF, PSD.
- Edited with apps like Photoshop, Krita, Procreate.
Vector art
Vector images are defined by mathematical equations that describe lines, curves, and shapes. They are resolution-independent, meaning they can be scaled to any size without losing clarity. This makes them perfect for logos, icons, typography, and illustrations that need to be printed at various sizes.
Vector files are typically smaller than raster files and are easily editable by moving anchor points and adjusting curves. Common vector formats include SVG, AI, and EPS. Adobe Illustrator, Affinity Designer, and Inkscape are popular vector tools.
- Made of paths defined by math.
- Resolution-independent: scales infinitely.
- Best for logos, icons, and crisp graphics.
- Common formats: SVG, AI, EPS, PDF.
- Edited with apps like Illustrator, Affinity Designer, Inkscape.
Common mistakes
- Thinking vector art is always better; raster is superior for painterly, detailed images.
- Assuming you can convert raster to vector perfectly; automatic tracing often loses detail and smoothness.
- Using raster for logos that need to be scaled across different media; vector is the standard for branding.
