Logo formats explained
So, you have a NEW logo for your new business. Brilliant! But, do you know what the formats mean and how they should be used, if not read on to get a better understanding.
You will probably have a zip file containing the following formats.
.SVG Scalable Vector Graphic.
The editable source file and a true vector format that allows infinite re-sizing without quality loss. This format functions virtually the same as an Adobe Illustrator file (.AI) does, the only difference being that the .AI format created for Adobe which can only be utilised by Adobe software. The .SVG format can be universally used with any vector graphics software, including Illustrator, Inkscape and CorelDraw.
.EPS Encapsulated Post Script.
Another editable source file which can be opened with any vector graphics software, as well as raster graphics applications like Photoshop and GIMP. This file is not a true vector format though, so using the .SVG file for editing is recommended. The .EPS format is best utilised in video editing when adding your logo to a video.
.PDF Portable Document Format.
Another editable source file which functions similar to the .SVG. Much like the .SVG format, this file can be opened and edited with any vector graphics application, including Illustrator, Inkscape and CorelDraw.
.PNG Portable Network Graphics.
A lossless raster format that supports alpha channels, allowing your logo to have a transparent background. This file is best when utilised on anything with a digital display, like websites, social media and mobile applications. The transparent background means your logo will lay nicely on top of which backdrop you lay it on.
.JPG Joint Photographic Experts Group
This file is similar to .PNG in that it is a raster format, however it does not support alpha channels, so your logo will not have a transparent background. The advantage of a .JPG file is that it tends to be more compressed that a .PNG meaning a smaller file size that takes up less space.