Vector images |
Bitmap Images |
| Vector images use geometrical formulas to render images. |
Bitmaps are images that are made up of a pattern of squares (pixels). They're also called raster graphics. |
| The software used to manipulate vector images are called "draw" programs. |
The software used to manipulate bitmap images are called "paint" programs. |
Vector images can be resized without loss in image quality.
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Bitmap images become fuzzy or pixelated when resized.
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| Vector images are intended for high-quality printing. |
Bitmap images are intended mainly for on-screen viewing. You can print a bitmap image, but you won't get a good quality print. You can remedy this to an extent by creating higher resolution bitmap images (150-300 dpi), but this is only sufficient for small prints like on business cards and letterheads. Print anything bigger and you'll need to use a vector image. |
Common vector formats include:
CDR (CorelDRAW)
CMX (Corel Exchange)
AI (Adobe Illustrator)
CGM Computer Graphics Metafile
DXF AutoCAD
WMF Windows Metafile |
Common bitmap formats include:
JPEG / JPG
GIF
BMP
PNG
PICT (Macintosh)
PCX
TIFF
PSD (Adobe Photoshop) |
Popular draw programs include:
CorelDRAW
Adobe Illustrator
Macromedia Freehand
Xara |
Popular paint programs include:
Adobe Photoshop
Corel Photo-Paint
Jasc Paint Shop Pro
Microsoft Paint |
