SVG vs EPS - which should I use?

Use SVG for web and digital applications - it's the modern standard with browser support and CSS/JS capabilities. Use EPS only when specifically required by print shops or stock sites with legacy workflows.

SVG vs EPS: Which Vector Format?

Both are vector formats that scale infinitely. But SVG dominates the web while EPS rules print. Learn when to use each format.

Convert to SVG See Comparison

Quick Decision Guide

Use SVG For:

Websites and web applications
Mobile apps
Interactive graphics
Animated graphics
Modern design workflows

Use EPS For:

Professional print production
Legacy print workflows
Stock graphic submissions
When print shop requires it
Working with older systems

Understanding Both Formats

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics)

Created: 1999 by W3C (World Wide Web Consortium)

Format: XML-based text file (human-readable code)

Primary use: Web graphics, digital media, modern applications

SVG was designed specifically for the web. It's an open standard that browsers natively understand, can be styled with CSS, animated with JavaScript, and is fully accessible.

EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)

Created: 1987 by Adobe

Format: PostScript-based binary/text file

Primary use: Print production, professional publishing

EPS was the industry standard before PDF and SVG existed. It's based on the PostScript printing language and was designed for high-quality print output. Still used in legacy print workflows.

Key Differences

Web Compatibility

SVG

Native browser support in all modern browsers. Can be embedded directly in HTML, used as image sources, or loaded dynamically. The standard for web vectors.

Built for the web

EPS

No browser support at all. Cannot be displayed on websites without conversion. Requires specialized software to view.

Not web-compatible

Editability

SVG

Human-readable XML code. Can be edited in any text editor, styled with CSS, manipulated with JavaScript. Developers can modify SVGs programmatically.

Edit in code or design software

EPS

Requires Adobe Illustrator or similar professional software to edit. Not easily editable in text editors. No CSS or JavaScript integration.

Edit in design software only

Print Quality

SVG

Excellent print quality when converted to PDF. Modern print workflows handle SVG well. Some older RIP software may have issues.

Great for modern print workflows

EPS

Designed specifically for print. Universal compatibility with print production software. Handles spot colors and print-specific features well.

Native print format

Features & Capabilities

SVG

• CSS styling and animations
• JavaScript interactivity
• Filters and effects
• Accessibility features (titles, descriptions)
• Responsive sizing
• Transparency support

EPS

• Spot color support (Pantone)
• Embedded preview images
• Clipping paths
• Legacy compatibility
• Print-specific metadata
• CMYK color support

SVG vs EPS: At a Glance

Feature	SVG	EPS
Type	Vector (XML-based)	Vector (PostScript-based)
Created	1999 (W3C)	1987 (Adobe)
Web Support	All browsers	None
Print Support	Good (via PDF)	Excellent (native)
Human Readable	Yes (XML)	No
CSS Styling	Yes	No
Animation	CSS/JS/SMIL	No
Spot Colors	Limited	Full support
File Size	Usually smaller	Often larger
Future	Modern standard	Legacy format

Real-World Scenarios

Website Logo → SVG

SVG is the only choice for web logos. It scales perfectly on all devices, can animate on hover, and loads faster than image alternatives. EPS can't even be displayed in browsers.

Print Shop Submission → EPS (or PDF)

If a print shop specifically requests EPS, provide it. Many legacy print workflows still expect EPS. However, PDF has largely replaced EPS for modern print production.

Stock Graphics Submission → Both

Stock sites like Shutterstock often require both formats. Submit EPS for print customers and SVG for digital/web customers. Cover all use cases.

App Icons → SVG

Mobile and desktop apps use SVG for icons. It's the standard for React Native, Flutter, and web apps. EPS has no role in app development.

Pantone/Spot Colors → EPS

If your design requires specific Pantone colors for brand accuracy in print, EPS handles spot colors better. SVG is RGB-focused and doesn't fully support spot color specifications.

Data Visualization → SVG

Charts, graphs, and interactive visualizations are built with SVG. Libraries like D3.js output SVG. The format supports hover states, tooltips, and dynamic updates.

The Verdict: SVG is the Future

While EPS still has its place in legacy print workflows, SVG is the modern standard for vector graphics:

Web and digital are increasingly dominant over print
PDF has replaced EPS for most print workflows
Modern design tools (Figma, Sketch) are SVG-native
SVG can always be converted to EPS when needed

Recommendation: Use SVG as your primary vector format. Keep EPS versions only when specifically required by print vendors or stock sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I convert EPS to SVG?

Yes. Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape (free), and online converters can convert EPS to SVG. The conversion preserves vector paths, so quality is maintained. This is a common workflow for bringing legacy EPS files to the web.

Is EPS obsolete?

Not completely, but it's declining. PDF has replaced EPS for most print workflows, and SVG dominates digital. EPS is still used in some legacy systems and stock graphic sites, but fewer new projects start with EPS.

Do print shops still accept SVG?

Most modern print shops accept PDF (which can be generated from SVG) without issues. Some may specifically request EPS for legacy workflows. When in doubt, ask your print shop what format they prefer.

Which has better quality?

Both are vector formats with infinite scalability - quality is equivalent. The difference is compatibility and features, not quality. A logo looks equally sharp in both formats.

Should I keep both formats?

For important brand assets like logos, yes. Keep your source files (AI, SVG) and generate EPS when needed for specific vendors. SVG should be your working format, with EPS as an export option.

Modern Vector Graphics

Create SVG Files for Any Use

Convert your images to web-ready SVG format. Works in browsers, design tools, and can be converted to EPS when needed.

Convert to SVG Free Convert EPS to SVG

1 free credit • Professional quality • Instant results