Vector Vs. Raster

What’s the difference between Raster and Vector? It’s pretty much like the difference between a $5 bill and a $100 bill. Which would you rather have? Obviously you’d want the $100 bill. It’s the same for rasters and vectors. For identity design, a vector is worth ten rasters. When it comes to logos and official church stationary you should never use anything but a vector.

Wait. Rewind. What is a vector anyway? A vector is an image that is based upon mathematical equations. It constantly calculates to give you the finest line no matter how far you zoom in. And a raster?

A raster image is one based upon pixels. A pixel is a tiny square of color information. Each pixel contains only one color. Thousands and thousands of pixels combined make a raster image.

The easiest way to tell the difference is by viewing the pictures below. The vector is on the right and the raster is on the left.

Logo at 100%

Logo at 300%

Logo at 6400%

So you see, a vector allows you to scale an image to any size you desire, and it still can be seen clearly. But vectors cannot be used for everything. If you design contains a picture, it will have to be raster because a picture is raster, or made of pixels. To learn more about working with rasters to receive the highest quality prints, check out my article: The Woes of Printing

Posted in: Media Tips