AI file extension represents Adobe Illustrator Artwork file. This graphics file format is a creation of Adobe systems for containing vector-based graphics in a single page. For the use of vector base, graphics content never loses their quality if enlarged. The AI format is most used for logos and print media. Apart from Adobe tools AI files are also supported in PaintShop Pro.
JPEG
JPEG is the most common format used by digital cameras and images living on the World Wide Web. This file format is based on lossy compression, meaning that it keeps information that is visible to the viewer and gets rid of data that the human eye can’t perceive. The popularity of the JPEG file stems from the fact that it is lightweight, while still being good enough quality for digital use. Due to its size, it will not only load faster, but it can be uploaded to any platform regardless of size limitations. This format can also be viewed on any device without the need to download a special image viewer. However, it’s important to be aware that every time you save a file as a JPEG, hence compressing it repeatedly, it causes the image to lose quality and possibly become pixelated or grainy. Advantages: lightweight file, viewable on almost any program. Disadvantages: loses quality when saved multiple times. Best places to use it: images for web design, social networks, and photo portfolios.
PNG
PNG is a high-quality file format used for images. This file type is based on the lossless compression, which means that it supports high-quality images for online use while retaining the original image colors and sharpness. Unlike JPEG files, PNGs also support images with transparent backgrounds. So, if you want to have an image without a background, like a logo or product, you can save it as a PNG file and use it with different backgrounds. However, this file is not as lightweight as a JPEG. Therefore, it’s not recommended to upload hundreds of large PNGs to your website or portfolio as it will take up a lot of storage and ultimately increase the loading time of your site. And nobody has time for that. Advantages: high-quality files, supports transparent backgrounds. Disadvantages: heavyweight file (slows downloading time and takes up lots of storage). Best places to use it: logos, websites photos, social networks (profile pictures, posts, and cover photos).
PDF
This file format is used for online documents and printing purposes. It was created by Adobe with the goal of displaying files in the same format, no matter what device they are viewed on or what software they are opened with. Thanks to the reliability of PDFs, you can create long documents and share them with others without risking a loss to your original design – text is not larger, images are not smaller, etc. PDF files can contain many different elements: text, photos, vector images, videos, audio files and even interactive elements like forms and buttons. It’s possible to create this file using many different kinds of software, from Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Acrobat to Microsoft Word, Google Docs and more. But to be able to view a PDF, you need to have a PDF reader installed on your device. Advantages:keeps all formatting regardless of what device it is displayed on. Disadvantages:you need a PDF Reader installed on the device to view it. Best places to use it:online forms, documents, and printing services.
SVG
SVG is a format commonly used to save and display vectors. Vector what? Vector art graphics are digital illustrations that are based on geometric shapes. They are created using a vector illustration software, like Illustrator. Apart from the clean and professional look they embody, their biggest advantage is that they maintain the highest quality even when resized. For example, if your business logo is a vector – and it should be – you can resize it to fit something as big as a billboard sign or as small as your business cards without risking a loss in quality. Today, we can view SVG images on all web browsers. It’s also a good format for printing purposes. So, when you’re creating logos, icons and illustrations, make sure you save them as an SVG file. Also, if you’re working with designers on visual assets for your business, ask them to send it to you as an SVG file version, as well as other relevant formats (like PNG, JPEG, etc.). Advantages:resizable without losing quality. Disadvantages:social media platforms do not support this file type. Best places to use it: Graphics on your web design, illustrated assets for your business (logo, icons, diagrams illustrations, etc.).