SVG is a vector format that stores images as math-described shapes, so they stay perfectly sharp at any size.
An open W3C standard since 2001, SVG is text-based (XML), so it can be styled with CSS and scaled infinitely without blur.
SVG is perfect for logos, icons and illustrations; when a platform needs a pixel image, convert it to PNG or another raster format.
Advantages
- ✓Vector-based, so it scales to any size with no loss of sharpness.
- ✓Widely supported by modern web browsers.
Drawbacks
- ✕Not a pixel image, so many apps cannot display it directly.
- ✕Inefficient for full-color photographs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SVG lossy or lossless?
SVG is a vector format, so it is resolution-independent rather than lossy or lossless in the usual sense.
Does SVG support transparency?
Yes, SVG supports transparency, so transparent backgrounds are preserved.
How do I open or convert a SVG file?
Most image viewers can open SVG files, but for full compatibility you can convert SVG to JPG or PNG right here — free, instant and private in your browser.