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Software Tips & Guides
Technical Cheat-Sheet
Design File Formats Demystified — JPG, PNG, EPS, SVG, AI & WebP
Learn which file extension to use for print, screen, billboard, and responsive web applications. A quick-reference cheat sheet for both designers and clients.
Quick Comparison
When To Use Which Format
| Format | Type | Transparent? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI (Adobe Illustrator) | Source Vector | Yes | Master project file for designers; contains layers and strokes. |
| EPS | Universal Vector | Yes | Commercial print shops, signage, embroidery, and billboards. |
| SVG | Web Vector | Yes | Crisp responsive website logos, UI icons, and interactive animations. |
| PNG | Raster | Yes | Digital presentations, social media overlays, and email signatures. |
| WebP | Modern Web Raster | Yes | Lightning-fast page speeds; 30% smaller than PNG/JPG at equal quality. |
| JPG | Raster (Lossy) | No | Full-bleed photography, print flyers with solid backgrounds. |
3 Golden Rules For Client Handoff
Never send raw un-outlined fonts: Always press
Ctrl+Shift+O (Cmd+Shift+O on Mac) in Illustrator so type glyphs become vector shapes that open identically on any computer.
Include both CMYK and RGB palettes: CMYK for paper offset printing, and sRGB for screens to prevent dull, muddy screen colors.
Structure directories clearly: Divide exports into
/Vector/, /Digital/, and /Color-Guide/ so clients can hand off files to printers effortlessly.
Export Automation Trick
In Adobe Illustrator, use Window > Asset Export. Drag all your logo variants into the panel, select 1x, 2x, 3x, SVG, and PDF presets, and export everything with one single click!