Compare
AI vs EPS
AI and EPS are vector formats seen in illustration and print. AI is an Illustrator editing master; EPS exchanges artwork in PostScript workflows.
Which format should you choose?
Keep AI for continuing Illustrator work; use EPS when the recipient's production workflow requires it.
Good fit for AI
Illustrator editing · Vector-artwork production source
- Keeping an Illustrator master
- Vector design workflows
Good fit for EPS
Print-production artwork exchange · PostScript-based workflows
- Existing EPS assets in compatible production tools
Basic information
| Field | AI | EPS |
|---|---|---|
| Extension | .ai | .eps |
| MIME type | application/postscript | application/postscript |
| Common uses | Illustrator editing · Vector-artwork production source | Print-production artwork exchange · PostScript-based workflows |
| How to open | Open AI in Adobe Illustrator or compatible software and check important artwork in the target application. | Open EPS in a compatible design or print-production application and check the target environment before output. |
| Export or convert | Export SVG, PDF, or PNG for web or delivery, and keep the AI master separately. | Export SVG or PNG for the web, or PDF for viewing and print when appropriate. Check fonts, vector content, and appearance after conversion. |
Choose by use case
Keeping an Illustrator master
Illustrator editing · Vector-artwork production source
AIVector design workflows
Illustrator editing · Vector-artwork production source
AIExisting EPS assets in compatible production tools
Print-production artwork exchange · PostScript-based workflows
EPSKey point 1
AI retains the Illustrator source for further editing.
More on the differencesKey point 2
EPS serves PostScript-based artwork exchange.
More on the differencesMore on the differences
Confirm the recipient's software and handoff requirements. Keep the AI master after exporting EPS.
- AI is used as the editable Illustrator production file.
- EPS support depends on the recipient's print workflow.
- An EPS export may not preserve every Illustrator-specific edit or appearance.
Frequently asked questions
Can EPS replace the AI master?
Not reliably; keep AI for future Illustrator edits and verify the exported EPS with the recipient.