Vector v. Raster: Which Image Format Is Better for Packaging?

Printing is what really defines your product and its packaging. You must be wondering what type of image file you should use for printing to attain perfection. The two most used formats are raster and vector.

Not everyone understands the difference between both, and we are going to break it down for a simple understanding of both graphics since the variance is pretty subtle.

Raster graphics, also known as bitmap images, are digital photography that contains small dots, rectangular mixed pixels structure to generate the image. These bitmaps can be easily created by photo scanning or digitally capturing the image. It is great for non-line art pictures—the ones you see on food chains’ gable favor boxes.

Raster graphics are remarkable when producing a complex composition and to show delicate color gradations. But this benefit also leads to a disadvantage. Raster graphics have pixel-based images, as mentioned before, so it can cause degradation while scaling the images up. You will see a heavily pixelated and jagged picture which will give an unpleasant vibe.

Your packaging size must be great to avoid hampering the print quality of bitmap images. One way to prevent degradation and poor quality printing on your packaging, the image should be in high-definition (HD) quality. You are suggested to keep your dots per inch (DPI) resolution at a minimum of 300 for a great printing experience. Standard bitmap file types are JPG, PNG, GIF and BMP.

This graphics type is best for illustrations, logos and print layouts that create an image by connecting the geometric-shaped paths. Vector images do not compromise on its quality even when zoomed or scaled up, unlike raster graphics. It is versatile and supports editing and other parts for a wholesome printing experience. You can also convert it to raster if you wish to.  

It is the most favorite type for designers as they can easily play with the image, no matter their shape or size. I will restate that vector graphics can be played with without worrying about its resolution. That is what makes it your go-to option when packaging designing demand resizing and reshaping. The most common vector graphics files include EPS, XML, CGM and SVG.

You now have somewhat an idea of what both image types mean, and now we can decide what would look better on the packaging. Firstly, it depends on your business and vision, but we will share when you have to use a particular file type.

It is evident that the vector format is the winner in generating high-res images. You can easily compress, re-edit and reshape the vector images on your packaging without deterring the printing and packaging quality.

You can also use Adobe Illustrator to vectorize your bitmap images to redesign your graphics' shapes, edges, and curves. It also means that camera-shot images cannot be vectorized if you are looking to attain a similar appearance.

In contrast, photo-shot images are automatically saved in raster format because the camera needs each pixel to recreate real-life representation. If you are looking to exhibit a picture on the packaging, raster graphics are best; however, be mindful of the quality.

Printing is what makes you stand differently. Therefore, consider both graphics format for specific uses and expel your artist on the packaging for an ethereal printing experience.