SVG vs PNG -- Vector or Raster?

What is SVG?

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is a vector format that describes images using mathematical shapes -- lines, curves, and polygons. Because SVG is resolution-independent, it looks sharp at any size, from a 16px favicon to a billboard. SVG files are XML-based text files, which means they can be edited with code, styled with CSS, and animated with JavaScript.

What is PNG?

PNG (Portable Network Graphics) is a raster format that stores images as a grid of colored pixels. It uses lossless compression, so quality is preserved perfectly. PNG supports full transparency (alpha channel), making it the standard format for graphics, screenshots, and images with transparent backgrounds. However, PNG files are resolution-dependent -- scaling up causes blur.

Key differences

When to use SVG

• Logos and brand marks (scale perfectly across all devices)
• Icons and UI elements
• Simple illustrations and diagrams
• Charts and data visualizations
• Animated graphics

When to use PNG

• Screenshots with text (pixel-perfect rendering)
• Complex graphics that cannot be expressed as vectors
• Photos or images that need transparency
• Game assets and textures
• Any image from a camera or scanner

Convert and optimize

If you have a PNG logo, consider converting it to SVG using a vector editor (Figma, Inkscape, Illustrator). For PNG images that need to be compressed or converted, use our tools: PNG to JPG | JPG to PNG | Image Compressor