Signage 101: Learn About The Major Differences Between Bitmap And Vector Images

If you’re a designer, then it’s essential to know the differences between Bitmap and Vector images. To communicate an idea or a concept, you’ll need to use graphics. There will be times when the idea can be explained with just a simple photo, but the same cannot be done if the concept requires more than just a photo to be explained clearly. Understanding something important requires visuals which is why they play a crucial factor in propagating the idea of the designer. The current two main forms of file formats when it comes to visuals in today world are Bitmap and Vector images, as used by signwriters in Adelaide services. In this article, we'll be sharing the differences between them and which one you should be using for each specific purpose.

What Do You Mean By Bitmap Images?

A Bitmap image can be defined as an image that is a photograph or a scanned copy. These images are mainly stored in terms of pixels. Pixels are defined as small blocks of colour that form an entire image when they're mapped on a together on a single surface. The location information, as well as the colour, is mapped in terms of bits, which is then stored on computers. Thereby, the name Bitmap was invented. Popular Formats For Raster Extensions - JPEG or JPG, BMP, GIF, PNG and TIFF.

What Do You Mean By Vector Images?

Vector images are those images that are created on computers using various Vector Graphic creation tools and applications. These tools or apps use shapes, curves, dots and polygons - that are all created using mathematical applications and thereby images are formed. Compared to pixel-based images, Vector images are completely editable. Furthermore, these images have better features as well. Popular Formats For Vector Extensions - AI, EPS, CDR, DXF and SVG. One of the major downfalls of Vector images is that some extensions can be proprietary. However, EPS is a popular extension among these.

Which One Is The Better Version?

In general, Vector images trump Bitmap or Raster images when it comes to usability. For example, Vector images can be resized without losing any detail. Furthermore, the file size of Vector images also tends to be lesser than Bitmap ones. Moreover, you’ll have the ability to edit Vector images, including colours, shapes and so on. But, the same cannot be said about Bitmap images, as it has its limitations when it comes to editing. But, an area where Vector images cannot beat Bitmap ones is the overall photo-realism, as Bitmap images tend to look much more photo-realistic.

Which One Should You Choose?

The use case scenario is simple - if you want to use a photograph to convey your idea or concept, then Bitmap images are the best option. But, when it comes to abstract images, icons and logos, Vector images are inherently a better choice.