Logo File Types and Their Uses

Let's talk about logos and file types, and how to use them because a lot of people think you just need any ole image of your logo and that will do you for all your website, print, merch, sign, email, etc needs and that’s definitely not the case…

There are actually a bunch of different logo file types, and they’re all used specifically for different things, in different ways, and for different purposes. Not only should you have multiple logo concepts (primary, secondary, and one or more sub-marks) for your brand, but you also need various file types for each of those logo files. If your brand or logo designer only sent you over less than a handful of logo files for your logo, you should likely reach out and see what can be done to help you get the logos and file types that you need. SO… I’ve listed some of the most common logo file types and their uses.

Logo File Types and Their Uses

.EPS — An EPS or Encapsulated PostScript is a vector file type and is great for large banners or signs. They can be scaled up as big as a billboard, or as small as a business card, without losing quality. EPS files are considered the best graphic format choice for when you’re trying to print your logos in high resolution. When you’re sending your logo to a print shop, always make sure you’re sending them an AI or EPS file, to ensure the best quality output.

.PDF — A PDF or Portable Document Format was created by Adobe to distribute platform-independent, compact documents. This file type can be viewed properly in programs such as a finder window, web browser, or Adobe Acrobat Reader. These file types aren’t used very often, but they are used occasionally.

.SVG — An SVG or Scalable Vector Graphic file works best for web usage. Works best on a website and can be scaled down or up without hindering or losing any quality. Typically these files have transparent backgrounds and can be opened in your web browser or in Adobe Illustrator. Some print shops accept SVG files, but they are generally used on the web, and EPS files are used for print.

.PNG — A PNG file is a rater-based graphic meant for web usage. They are pixel-based and cannot be scaled up to a larger size without pixilation, which means they need to be exported with the correct size and resolution for what you intend to use them for. PNGs also support transparent backgrounds, when needed, are great for using on your website, social media, and are able to be opened with almost any computer software or in a browser. If you don’t have access to an SVG, a high-quality PNG is your best alternative. When uploading PNGs to your website, make sure they’re optimized for the web, by ensuring their file size is as small as you can get it, while still maintaining the quality of the image.

.JPG — A JPG or JPEG is a raster-based image, meant for web or print use, such as on letters, and other similar documents. JPG files don’t support a transparent background. Similar to PNG files, JPG files need to be created with the correct size and resolution for what you intend to use them for. Also similar to PNGs, make sure you optimize them before you upload them to your website. You want to compress the size of the file but do so without diminishing the quality too much, if at all.

*All Thrive Design Co Branding identities standardly include EPS, PNG, and JPG versions of each of your logos, and any additional file types you might need may be purchased for an additional charge*

Was this helpful? If you have more questions about logos, logo file types, or your current branding, please do reach out and book a coaching call or a free 30-minute discovery call using the button below! I’d love to {virtually} meet you and help you in your business!

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