Format Atlas

Guides

Choose a design production format

Separate the editable production source, artwork for established print workflows, web graphics, and final viewing or print files.

Which format should you choose?

Choose by the role each file plays in your workflow.

  • Edit vectors and logos in Illustrator → AI
  • Edit photos and composites in Photoshop → PSD
  • Exchange artwork in an existing print workflow → EPS
  • Deliver logos and shapes on the web → SVG
  • Final copy for viewing or printing → PDF

Keep editable sources apart from delivery files

AI and PSD are sources for continuing production. EPS serves compatible artwork exchange, SVG serves web vectors, and PDF provides fixed-layout viewing or print output.

Inspect in the recipient's environment

After export, check app-specific effects, fonts, linked images, and transparency in the destination workflow. Retain the editable source separately.

Formats to consider

AI

Good for: Continuing vector design in Illustrator

Less suitable for: Final web delivery to unknown users

PSD

Good for: Editing photos and composites in Photoshop

Less suitable for: Direct browser display

EPS

Good for: Artwork exchange with an established EPS print workflow

Less suitable for: Direct web delivery

SVG

Good for: Web delivery of logos, icons, and shapes

Less suitable for: Photographic images

PDF

Good for: Final fixed-layout viewing or printing

Less suitable for: The only source for continued revisions

Before you export

  • Do not replace editable sources solely with final delivery files.
  • Inspect conversions in the recipient's app, delivery service, or print workflow.
  • Check font and image licenses and the recipient's submission requirements.

Related comparisons

AI vs PSDAI and PSD are Adobe editing files. AI is primarily for vector shapes and illustrations; PSD is for photo compositing and pixel-based image work.AI vs SVGAI and SVG both handle vector artwork. AI is an Illustrator working file; SVG is an open format for web display and broader delivery.AI vs EPSAI and EPS are vector formats seen in illustration and print. AI is an Illustrator editing master; EPS exchanges artwork in PostScript workflows.EPS vs SVGEPS and SVG both carry vector artwork, but EPS targets PostScript print workflows while SVG is an open vector format for browsers and web delivery.EPS vs PDFEPS and PDF may both appear in print workflows. EPS exchanges artwork in PostScript-based production; PDF distributes fixed-layout documents and finished deliverables.

Guides

Choose a web image formatDecide what kind of image you are serving and which browsers and tools must support it before choosing a web format.Choose a document delivery formatFor document delivery, decide whether the recipient needs a fixed presentation or an editable source.Choose a transparent image formatFor transparency, consider whether you need partial opacity, photographic detail, or scalable vector artwork, then check destination support.

References and specifications