So, you just got your new logo from your designer, and now you’re staring at a folder full of files—.JPG, .PNG, .EPS, .AI, and more. What do you actually need? Should you upload the .JPG to Facebook? What about the .PDF? And seriously, what even is an .AI file?
Let’s break it down in plain English, so you always know which file to use (and when to avoid certain ones).
📱 Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) → .PNG, .JPG
🌐 Website → .JPG, .PNG, .SVG (for responsive scaling)
📄 Marketing Materials (brochures, flyers, business cards) → .AI, .EPS, .PNG, .PDF
🎤 Sponsorships (event banners, partner placements, etc.) → .EPS, .PDF, .PNG
🎨 Editing the Logo (for future changes) → .AI, .PSD
What is it?
A vector format that scales perfectly at any size. Great for print materials and branding.
✅ Pros: Scalable, transparent background, ideal for large-format printing
❌ Cons: Not all software supports it
Use an EPS file for:
✔ Printing business cards, shirts, and swag
✔ Large-format printing (banners, billboards, vehicle wraps)
✔ Embroidery or laser engraving (hats, plaques, signs)
Opens with: Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Inkscape (free), Affinity Designer
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What is it?
A universal file format that keeps text, images, and layouts intact.
✅ Pros: High-quality, easy to share, great for printing
❌ Cons: Not always scalable unless saved as a vector PDF
Use a PDF file for:
✔ Print marketing (brochures, flyers, business cards)
✔ Brand guidelines (so your team uses the logo correctly)
✔ Email signatures (keeps your logo looking sharp)
✔ Presentations (no blurry logos in PowerPoint!)
Opens with: Adobe Acrobat, Preview (Mac), Chrome/Firefox (view-only)
What is it?
A raster image format that supports transparency, perfect for digital use.
✅ Pros: Transparent background, small file size, works almost everywhere
❌ Cons: Gets pixelated when stretched
Use a PNG file for:
✔ Social media (clean, transparent logos on posts and covers)
✔ Website graphics (for crisp images on any background)
✔ Digital ads (fast-loading and sharp)
Opens with: Any web browser, Photoshop, Canva, Microsoft Office
What is it?
A layered image file used for advanced design work in Photoshop.
✅ Pros: Editable layers, supports effects like shadows and glows
❌ Cons: Requires Photoshop, large file size
Use a PSD file for:
✔ Photo compositing (adding your logo to product mockups)
✔ Special effects (metallic, 3D, or textured logos)
✔ Custom social media graphics
Opens with: Adobe Photoshop, GIMP (free), Photopea (online)
What is it?
The native file format for Illustrator, used for fully editable vector graphics.
✅ Pros: Infinitely scalable, best for future edits
❌ Cons: Requires Illustrator
Use an AI file for:
✔ Custom merchandise (T-shirts, mugs, posters)
✔ Motion graphics (importing into After Effects for animations)
✔ Precision cutting (CNC, laser, and metal fabrication)
Opens with: Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Inkscape (limited)
JPG/JPEG: Best for photos, but not ideal for logos (loses quality when resized).
TIFF: Used in high-end print (magazines, professional photography).
Always keep .AI/.EPS (vector) and .PNG (transparent background) versions of your logo—they cover 90% of what you’ll need! Need a quick shareable file? Use a PDF. Posting on social? Go with a PNG or JPG.
Now, you’ll never have to wonder, “Which file should I use?” again!
