Compare
AI vs SVG
AI and SVG both handle vector artwork. AI is an Illustrator working file; SVG is an open format for web display and broader delivery.
Which format should you choose?
Keep AI for ongoing Illustrator editing; export SVG for websites, interfaces, and icons.
Good fit for AI
Illustrator editing · Vector-artwork production source
- Keeping an Illustrator master
- Vector design workflows
Good fit for SVG
Logos, icons, and diagrams · UI graphics needing scalable edges
- Illustrations resized across displays
- Simple editable shapes and icons
Basic information
| Field | AI | SVG |
|---|---|---|
| Extension | .ai | .svg |
| MIME type | application/postscript | image/svg+xml |
| Common uses | Illustrator editing · Vector-artwork production source | Logos, icons, and diagrams · UI graphics needing scalable edges |
| How to open | Open AI in Adobe Illustrator or compatible software and check important artwork in the target application. | Open SVG in a browser, vector editor, or compatible viewer. |
| Export or convert | Export SVG, PDF, or PNG for web or delivery, and keep the AI master separately. | Export SVG to PNG when a raster image is needed. Check the target size, fonts, color, and transparency. |
Choose by use case
Keeping an Illustrator master
Illustrator editing · Vector-artwork production source
AIVector design workflows
Illustrator editing · Vector-artwork production source
AIIllustrations resized across displays
Logos, icons, and diagrams · UI graphics needing scalable edges
SVGSimple editable shapes and icons
Logos, icons, and diagrams · UI graphics needing scalable edges
SVGKey point 1
AI preserves the Illustrator production source.
More on the differencesKey point 2
SVG is a W3C vector format suited to browser display.
More on the differencesMore on the differences
Keep the AI master and export SVG when the delivery target requires it. Inspect the exported rendering.
- AI retains editable Illustrator-specific production data.
- SVG is designed for interoperable web vector graphics.
- Illustrator effects and editing structure may change on export to SVG.
Frequently asked questions
Can SVG replace the AI source?
Not necessarily. Keep AI for Illustrator revisions and test the delivered SVG.