Logo File Formats Explained: SVG, PNG, PDF, JPG and EPS

Your printer asks for a vector file, your web designer wants a transparent PNG and your sign shop needs something called an EPS. If logo file formats feel confusing, you are not alone. This plain-English guide explains what each format is for, so you always send the right file.

Vector vs Raster: The Key Difference

Vector files

Vector files are made of mathematical shapes rather than pixels. They can be scaled to any size, from a pen to a billboard, without losing quality. Your original logo should always exist as a vector file. Common vector formats are SVG, EPS, AI and PDF.

Raster files

Raster files are made of pixels. They look great at the size they were made for but become blurry or blocky when enlarged. Common raster formats are PNG and JPG.

The Main Logo File Formats

SVG

A vector format for the web. SVG logos stay crisp on any screen and are usually very small files. Ideal for your website header.

PNG

A raster format that supports transparent backgrounds. Great for placing your logo on top of photos or coloured backgrounds, for social media and for documents.

JPG

A raster format with no transparency, so your logo will sit on a solid background. Fine for some uses, but PNG is usually better for logos.

PDF

Can hold vector artwork and opens on almost any computer. Often the easiest format to send to printers.

EPS and AI

Professional vector formats used by designers, sign makers and print shops. You may not be able to open them yourself, but keep them safe because suppliers will ask for them.

Which File Should I Use?

1. Website: SVG, or PNG if your system does not support SVG
2. Social media profiles: PNG, sized for each platform
3. Word documents and presentations: PNG with a transparent background
4. Business cards and print: PDF or EPS. See our business card design article
5. Signs, vehicle graphics and embroidery: EPS, AI or SVG vector files
6. Email signatures: a small PNG

Colour Versions You Should Have

1. Full colour on a white or light background
2. Reversed version for dark backgrounds
3. One-colour black version
4. One-colour white version

Many professional logo packages also include RGB colour versions for screens and CMYK versions for print, because screens and printers handle colour differently.

What If I Only Have a Low-Resolution Logo?

If you only have a small JPG from years ago, it cannot simply be enlarged. A designer can redraw it as a vector file, often called vectorising. This is also a good moment to consider a light refresh. Read our guide on when to rebrand.

Get a Complete Logo Package

Every logo design project at Onealsweb ends with a full set of files for print and digital use, which you own. If you need your existing logo recreated or organised into a proper file set, contact us. Learn more about our graphic design services in Cochrane.