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What is the difference between vector and bitmap graphics? |
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Bitmap graphics (aka 'raster' graphics) are images that are made of squares of color, aka pixels. Bitmap images are the most common image type. All of the graphics & images on this webpage are bitmap graphics. Examples of bitmap images are .TIF, .JPG, .GIF, .PNG & .BMP files. Vector graphics on the other hand are made of primitive geometry (points, lines, curves & polygons), so they are based on mathematical coordinates. The average Joe doesn't have any use for Vector graphics, and they are mainly used by professionals. Examples of vector images are .AI, .EPS, .SVG, and some .PDF files.
The main difference between bitmap and vector graphics is that bitmap graphics decrease in quality as they are enlarged whereas vector graphics can be enlarged to any size without decreasing the image quality. This is because as vector objects are enlarged, the mathematical coordinates maintain the integrity of their edges so they don't decrease in quality. |
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1a) This image is a close-up of vector art. Note how the lines are perfectly smooth |
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1b) This image is a close-up of bitmap art. It is obvious that the lines are made up of squares of color. |
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Another issue with Vector and Bitmap graphics is that they are each used for different outputs. For instance, screen printers usually require Vector artwork in printing graphics on T-shirts and often cannot print from bitmap graphics. Conversely, web browsers only display Bitmap graphics and will not display Vector graphics.
One last difference to note about Vector and Bitmap graphics is that bitmap graphics can easily be created from vector graphics, but vector graphics cannot be created from bitmap graphics so easily. So if you have some vector graphics that you want to convert to bitmap and use on your website, no problem; all you need is Photoshop or other software that can 'rasterize' your graphics. But if you have a bitmap image and want to have it screen printed, someone will have to create a vector version of the image which often requires them to draw it by hand. |
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