A Guide To Your Logo Files

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How to Use Your Logo Like a Pro

What the heck is a SVG? How can I use my logo without asolid background? My printer is asking for a vector file... help??? Sound familiar? We got you! Here's all the info you need to use your logo in all its various formats - like a pro!

What are the Different File Types for Logos?

When you receive the files with your logo, you might be confused to see a variety of file types. Don't fret! Here's what each type means and what you can use it for. Download the quick and easy cheat sheet at the bottom of this page to keep on hand for reference!

Logo File Formats

Vector Vs. Raster

example of an SVG file, clear when resizing
Vector
example of a PNG file, blurry when resizing
Raster
Vector

Vector files are images made of a multitude of lines and points that can be edited in design programs. They maintain quality as they scale.

Raster

Raster files are high-quality digital images that are made of pixels, which are square blocks that make up digital images. Raster files lose quality as they scale.

Logo File Formats

Digital
PNG file
PNG
Raster file with transparency
SVG file
SVG
Vector file for digital use
JPG file
JPG
Raster file for digital use
Print
PDF file
PDF
Universal file for easy viewing
AI file
AI
Adobe Illustrator file, editable
EPS file
EPS
Vector file, editable
File Type
Pros & Cons
Uses
More Info
PNG
PNG file
RASTER
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Transparent background capability
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Higher quality image
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Not scalable to any size
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Larger file size
  • Digital use with transparent background
  • Sending to someone else for use
  • Social media profile

PNG files are usually larger files with higher quality. Of the rasterized formats, PNGs can usually be resized the most while losing the least quality.

jpg
JPG file
RASTER
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Smaller file size
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Wide range of colors available
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Not scalable to any size
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Lower quality image
  • Digital use without transparent background
  • On website for quicker speeds
  • Social media profile

JPG or JPEG files are some of the most commonly used image files. They are smaller files that are great for social media profile photos and content.

svg
SVG file
Vector
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Scalable to any size
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Editable file
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Wide range of uses
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Requires specific software to use
  • Editing your logo
  • Uploading to software for cutting, engraving, laser-printing, etc.
  • Sending to another professional for use

SVG files are vector files that can be used on the web, in projects to be printed, as a template for cutting or embroidering software, and more! If you’re looking to have anything from stickers or keychains to billboards or shop signs made, an SVG file is perfect!

PDF
PDF file
DEPENDS
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Easy-to-read, easily shareable format
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Format is the same on all devices
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Scalable without losing quality
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Quality can vary drastically
  • Print materials
  • Business cards, stickers, etc.
  • Easy sharing
  • Easy viewing

PDF files are compatible with and easily readable by any device. Depending on the software used to create them, they may be vector or raster files and may vary drastically in quality.

AI
AI file
VECTOR
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Fully editable
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Fully scalable
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Requires Adobe Illustrator to open
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Requires experience to edit
  • Creating or editing your logo and its elements
  • Sending to a designer for use or edits
  • Sending to a printer

AI files are created and edited with the Adobe Illustrator software. These files are often the original files for your logo. Generally, clients don’t need to use these files themselves.

EPS
EPS file
VECTOR
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Fully editable
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Fully scalable
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Can be opened with vector programs
teal circle with x - don't
Requires experience to edit
  • Creating or editing your logo and its elements
  • Sending to a designer for use or edits
  • Sending to a printer

EPS files are great for using your logo in print or physical formats. They’re also ideal for sending to designers for use or editing. These files are easily converted to other file types when needed.

dos & don'ts

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Don't:

Permanently rasterize your logo

Do:

Always keep unedited original files - make copies if you need to edit them!

Don't:

Send a JPEG or PNG file for printing

Do:

Send the printer a vector format file - EPS or SVG files are ideal for this, and AI and PDF files may work as well.

Don't:

Resize your PNG or JPG file

Do:

If your logo needs to be resized, it’s best to use a vector file to avoid losing quality.

Don't:

Send a designer or printer a non-transparent image file for use

Do:

It’s always best to send other professionals an editable vector file when available, or a transparent PNG if vector files are unavailable.

Don't:

Trust a designer who can’t provide original vector files

Do:

Work with A Creative Conspiracy!  We always provide our original files, as well as every format that you should need.

What File Type Should I use?

IF IT NEEDS TO BE:
YOU SHOULD USE:
Transparent
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PNG, SVG, EPS
Used Online
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PNG, JPG, SVG
Used on Merch
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SVG, EPS, AI
Scalable & Editable
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SVG, EPS, AI
How to use your logo files like a pro - free download

Download the Free cheat sheet!

Did you find this guide to using your various logo file formats helpful? Need a quick reference to refer back to? Download the FREE cheat sheet here! Keep this handy guide on file to use whenever you're stuck and need a hint to use your logo effectively, without any blurriness or distortion!

Download Here
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Still Need Some Help?

Expert Design Services

Whether you need an entirely new branding package, a new logo, or just some help navigating your files, A Creative Conspiracy is here for you! Contact us with any questions, concerns, or issues you may have! Don't hesitate to reach out!

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