SVG vs PNG: When to Use Vector vs Raster Graphics
Web design involves choosing the right asset formats. Two of the most common formats for graphics are SVG and PNG. While they both support transparent backgrounds, they are fundamentally different underneath.
Let's break down the differences and when to use each.
Vector vs. Raster: The Core Difference
The main difference between SVG and PNG lies in how they store image data:
- PNG (Raster): Raster images are made of a fixed grid of pixels. When you resize a PNG, the browser has to guess how to fill the new pixels, resulting in blurriness or pixelation.
- SVG (Vector): Vector graphics are made of mathematical equations defining paths, shapes, curves, and colors. Resizing an SVG recalculates these equations, keeping the image perfectly sharp at any scale.
When to Use SVG
SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is ideal for:
- Logos & Branding: Keeps company logos perfectly crisp on standard and high-DPI (Retina) screens.
- Icons: Tiny file sizes (often less than 1KB) and fully scalable.
- Simple Illustrations: Geometric patterns and flat-color vectors.
- Interactive Graphics: SVGs can be styled with CSS and animated with JavaScript.
When to Use PNG
PNG (Portable Network Graphics) is ideal for:
- Complex Graphics: Screenshots, digital paintings, or images with heavy gradients.
- Photographs with Transparency: When you need a cut-out photo of a person or product on a transparent background (though WebP is preferred).