Your Guide to Logo File Types: What They Are & When to Use Them
A high-quality logo isn’t just about design, it’s about versatility. Ensuring your logo looks crisp and professional across all platforms requires understanding different file formats. From websites to business cards, social media to signage, using the right file type ensures brand consistency, scalability, and a polished appearance in every setting.
Quick Take:
Having the right logo file formats ensures your brand looks sharp and professional across all platforms. Vector files keep your logo crisp for print and large-scale use, while raster files optimize it for web and digital applications. By understanding when to use each format, you’ll maintain brand consistency, avoid quality issues, and make collaboration with designers and printers seamless.
You just got your brand-new logo—exciting! But now you’re looking at a folder filled with files labeled PNG, SVG, EPS, and more. What do they all mean? And which one should you use where?
Using the right logo file format is key to keeping your brand looking sharp and professional everywhere—from websites and social media to business cards and billboards.
In this guide, I’ll break down the different logo file types, when to use each one, and how to avoid common mistakes that could make your brand look unpolished.
Vector vs. Raster: What’s the Difference?
Before we dive into specific file formats, let’s talk about the two main types of logo files: vector and raster.
Vector files (SVG, EPS, AI, PDF) are built from mathematical points, meaning they can be resized infinitely without losing quality. This makes them perfect for print, signage, and anything that needs to scale.
Raster files (PNG, JPG, GIF) are made of tiny dots called pixels. When resized beyond their original dimensions, they can get blurry. These are best for web and social media use.
Now, let’s look at each file type and when to use it.
The Essential Logo File Formats
Vector Formats: For Print, Design, and Professional Use
EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)
An industry-standard vector format used by designers and printers. EPS files keep your logo crisp at any size, making them a must-have for professional printing.
✓ Best for: Print, signage, promotional products, professional design use.
X Not ideal for: Web or social media.
AI (Adobe Illustrator File)
This is the original design file for your logo. If you need to make edits in the future, this is the file a designer will need.
✓ Best for: Editing your logo or working with a designer.
X Not ideal for: Everyday use or sending to clients/customers.
PDF (Portable Document Format – Vector Version)
A versatile format that can be used for both print and digital purposes. Most printers accept PDFs, and they’re easy to share.
✓ Best for: Sending logos to clients, vendors, or printers.
X Not ideal for: Web use.
SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics)
Designed for digital use, SVG files scale perfectly without losing quality, making them the best choice for web applications.
✓ Best for: Websites, digital applications, embroidery, and modern web browsers.
X Not ideal for: Traditional printing (some printers don’t accept SVG files).
Raster Formats: For Web and Digital Use
PNG (Portable Network Graphics)
A go-to format for online use, PNG files support transparency—so no annoying white background when placing your logo on images or colored backgrounds.
✓ Best for: Websites, social media, and any place where you need a transparent background.
X Not ideal for: Large-scale printing.
JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)
JPGs are compressed image files, making them smaller and faster to load online. However, they don’t support transparency.
✓ Best for: Web use, social media, and email signatures.
X Not ideal for: Printing or designs that require a transparent background.
Each Format Quick Reference
EPS: Printing, professional design – Transparent
AI: Editing, working with designers – Transparent
PDF: Printing, professional design – Transparent
SVG: Web, digital applications – Transparent
PNG: Web, social media, overlays – Transparent
JPG: Web, social media, email – Not Transparent
Pro Tips for Managing Your Logo Files
Organize Your Logo Files for Easy Access
Store all versions in a dedicated folder on your computer and cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox).
Separate Vector Files (AI, EPS, PDF, SVG) from Web Files (PNG, JPG).
Label them clearly (e.g., BrandName_PrimaryLogo_Color.eps, BrandName_Icon_White.png).
Keep your most-used logos handy—like your main logo, brand mark, and key variations.
Using the Right File for the Right Purpose
Vector files (EPS, AI, PDF) for high-quality printing.
PNGs for digital use where transparency is needed.
SVGs for web design and scalable graphics.
JPGs for quick-loading images on websites and emails.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
X Using JPGs for printing – Always send a vector file (EPS, PDF).
X Uploading EPS files to websites – Websites don’t support EPS; use PNG or SVG instead.
X Sending a PNG to a printer – Printers need vector files for high-quality prints.
X Resizing a raster logo too large – This results in pixelation. Use vector files to scale smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Using the right logo file ensures your branding always looks professional—whether it’s on a website, social media, packaging, or a billboard.
Still not sure which file to use? Here’s a simple rule of thumb:
✓ Print: Use EPS or PDF.
✓ Web & Social Media: Use PNG for a transparent background, JPG for faster loading.
✓ Web Design: Use SVG for sharpness and scalability.
Need a custom, high-quality logo suite that works everywhere? Explore our logo design portfolio, learn more about our branding services, and contact us to start your project.
ABOUT THE BLOGGER
Hi! I’m Taryn Schroder
I help small business owners ditch the DIY struggle and build custom brands and websites that look as professional as they are. My goal is simple: to create a brand and website that grows with your business and feels authentically you.
