Parlex StudioBLOG
All articles

VECTOR & PRINT

AI, EPS, PDF, SVG, PNG: which file format do you actually need?

Your designer sends a folder full of files and you don't know which one to use. Here's a plain guide to the formats you'll meet and when to use each one.

Muhammed O.October 3, 2026 · 2 min read

You order a logo or a design, and you receive a folder full of files: AI, EPS, PDF, SVG, PNG, JPG. Then the printer asks for one format, the web developer asks for another, and Instagram wants something else.

Here is a simple guide so you always know which file to send.

The two families: vector and raster

Vector files (AI, EPS, SVG, and most design PDFs) are built from paths. They scale to any size without losing quality. Use them for print, signage, embroidery, cutting and anything that may be enlarged.

Raster files (PNG, JPG, WEBP) are built from pixels. They have a fixed size. Use them for screens: websites, social media, presentations and messages.

Each format in one line

  • AI: The Adobe Illustrator working file. Fully editable. Keep it safe; it's your master file.
  • EPS: An older vector format that almost every printer and sign maker can open.
  • PDF: The safest format to send to a print shop. It can hold vectors, fonts and print settings.
  • SVG: A vector format for the web. Perfect for logos and icons on websites.
  • PNG: A raster image that supports a transparent background. Ideal for logos on screens and social media.
  • JPG: A raster image without transparency. Good for photos, not for logos.

Quick guide: what to send to whom

  1. Print shop, packaging, flyers: PDF (print-ready), or AI/EPS if they ask.
  2. Sign maker, embroidery, laser, vinyl: AI, EPS or PDF with vector paths.
  3. Web developer: SVG for the logo, PNG or WEBP for images.
  4. Social media and WhatsApp: PNG for graphics, JPG for photos.
  5. Microsoft Word or PowerPoint: PNG with a transparent background.

Common mistakes

  • Sending a JPG logo to a printer and getting a white box around it
  • Using a tiny PNG for a large banner
  • Losing the original AI file and having to redraw the logo years later
  • Sending a PDF that only contains a pasted image, not real vectors

If you only have a low-quality logo and can't find the original files, don't worry. I can redraw it as a clean vector and give you the full set of formats.

Want help with this?

Send me a short message about your situation. I'll review it for free and tell you the first step.

Chat on WhatsAppSee the vector service

MORE ARTICLES