Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) is a type of image format that displays graphics without losing quality. Compared to other file formats, SVG files are shiny when displaying logos, icons, illustrations, and charts, anything with graphic shapes.
SVGs are formatted using XML-based, meaning it is formatted using mathematical equations. Help the image retain crisp edges when scaling, meaning it will never pixelate, no matter the size. Because of its format, SVGs maintain a relatively small file size compared to other raster images. Since they use XML-based format, they can also be edited with text editors, allowing for easy change of color, even after it's been exported.
When to use it
- Simple illustrations
- Logos
- Graphics
- Text (As long as it's for a decorative purpose only)
- Icons
When not to use it
| Feature |
SVG (Vector) |
PNG |
JPEG |
GIF |
EPS |
| Type |
Vector (shapes & math-based) |
Raster |
Raster |
Raster |
Vector (print-focused) |
| Scalability |
Infinite (no quality loss) |
Limited (pixel-based) |
Limited (pixel-based) |
Limited (pixel-based) |
Infinite (vector-based) |
| Best For |
Logos, icons, illustrations, charts |
Graphics with transparency, UI elements |
Photos, web images with gradients |
Simple animations, low-color graphics |
High-quality print graphics |
| Transparency Support |
Yes |
Yes |
No (unless JPEG 2000) |
Yes |
Yes |
| File Size |
Very small for simple graphics; can grow with complexity |
Medium–large depending on resolution |
Usually smaller (lossy compression) |
Small for simple art, bigger for animation |
Can be large (depends on content) |
| Animation Support |
Yes (with CSS/JS or SMIL) |
No |
No |
Yes (limited, frame-based) |
No |
| Browser Support |
Universal (all modern browsers) |
Universal |
Universal |
Universal |
Not for web (used in design software) |
| Editing |
Easily editable with text/code or vector software |
Limited (pixel editing only) |
Limited (pixel editing only) |
Very limited |
Requires vector software (Illustrator, CorelDraw) |
| SEO Benefits |
Yes (SVG code is readable, searchable, lightweight) |
No |
No |
No |
No |
| Compression |
Not needed (math-based) |
Lossless |
Lossy |
Limited |
Not typical |