#Vector vs raster graphic pdf#
#Vector vs raster graphic software#

Another vector-based software, Xara Xtreme, offers similar features and is free for Linux platforms.

#Vector vs raster graphic pdf#

It can be used to improve a script generated plot or extract elements from a PDF file in order to transform them further. Despite being vector-based, it offers some features of raster graphics as well. Inkscape is a vector graphics editor, very good for creating simple figures or even fairly complex designs like an entire poster. I encourage you to have a look at the following open source software: However, many other commercial and non-commercial programs exist and you have the choice.

#Vector vs raster graphic software#

Be reassured however that modern programs are increasingly mixing features of both as each approach has its advantages and its drawbacks.Īdobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop are probably the most known software tools for vector and raster graphics, respectively. In general, you are well advised to know at least two different software tools, one for vector graphics and one for raster graphics. The raster graphics (lower part of the image) is representing an image as grid of pixels or points of color and thus the initially set resolution is fixed, resulting invariably in quality loss of the image while scaling. This enables to scale arbitrarily images without any loss of resolution. Each path may be assigned a stroke color, thickness, fill and further visual effects. The vector graphics (upper part of the image) is based on the idea that every graphical element – line, curve, shape, polygon – can be represented as vectors (also called paths), which are going through anchor points or nodes.

You’re not certain: go for the sure thing and start with a vector graphics software.

You need to retouch some of your bitmap images: raster graphics is your friend.

You plan a one-time design like a cover image or an image to accompany a press release: raster graphics may yield more spectacular results.

You want a publication figure – turned – poster figure – turned – presentation slide: vector graphics is your friend.

The crucial difference between the two consists in the fact that the vector graphics are losslessly scalable whereas raster graphics are not.ĭepending on what type of figure or design you aim at, you may want to use either vector or raster based software and formats. You probably have heard about the two main types of graphics: vector graphics and raster graphics (if you are not familiar with these terms, check out wikipedia Vector graphics and Raster graphics). Vector versus raster graphics: the good, the bad and the ugly.