Vector Graphics Vs Raster Images

There is two main type of digital graphics files -First one is Raster Images and second is Vector.

Vector Images- 

Vector images are made of thousands of small points that unite together to make lines and curves to create vector graphics.  Basically, Vector graphics are based on mathematical calculations define geometric primitives such as lines, circles, polygons, curves, and rectangles. There are some well-known applications that deal with vector-based graphics are:

• Adobe Illustrator,
• Sketch
• Corel Draw
• Macromedia Freehand.

Used In-  Vector images are mainly used for illustration, logos, technical drawing, CAD, Engineering, and also used in 3D graphics.

File Formate-

• In Adobe Illustrator file type are : .ai,  .eps (Encapsulated PostScript), .art
• In Sketch : .sketch
• In Corel Draw : .cdr, .cdrw, .cdt
• .pdf
• .svg
• .drw (vector file)
• .svf (Simple Vector Format)
• .ps (Adobe PostScript)

 Pros of  Vector Images- 

• Vector images are Resolution-independent. We can print them at any size or resolution.
• Vector graphic maintains a small file size even for large dimension.
• Because of mathematical calculations, Vactor images can be scaled to any size without losing their quality.
• Vector images can be easily converted to the raster image.

Cons of  Vector images- Vector images are not very good for continuous tone images that blend with multiple shades of color.

Raster Images-

Raster images are pixel-based images that are created with pixel-based programs or captured with a camera or scanner. A smallest single element of the display device is known as a pixel. If you zoom into a raster image,  you will be able to see the square. Raster format is resolution-specific

Used In- The most commonly used type of raster graphics is “a photograph”. Raster graphics are most suitable for non-line art images. Images that we find on websites are raster images. Raster images are good for digital work rather than printing work.

File Formats-

The most common raster image format are :

• .jpg or .jpeg (JPEG raster format)
• .png (Portable Network Graphic Transparent file)
• .psd (Adobe Photoshop)
• .tif (Tag Interleave Format)
• .gif (GIF transparent file)

 Editor for raster-based image :

• Adobe Photoshop

Pros of  Raster Images- 

• Rich Detail- As raster image is pixels based, You can easily create a complex image with any kind of color changes.
• Precise Editing

Cons of  Raster Images- 

• More detailed image increase the file size.
• Do not scale up optimally
• If you use a limited amount of spot colors than It can be more difficult to print raster images.