Logo File Types Explained: What You Need for Web, Print & More

You’ve just received your awesome new logo—congrats! But now you’re staring at a folder full of files with extensions like .svg, .png, .eps, .pdf, and .jpg, and wondering: what on earth do I do with all these?

Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Understanding logo file types can feel a bit overwhelming if you’re not in the design world, but it’s actually pretty simple once you know what each one is for. Having the right file in the right format makes all the difference when it comes to keeping your brand looking sharp, whether you're printing a business card or updating your website.

Here’s a quick guide to the most common logo file types and when to use them.

1. SVG – Scalable Vector Graphic

Best for: Web, digital use, and when you need scalability

Why it’s great: SVG files are vector-based, which means they can scale to any size without losing quality. Perfect for websites, icons, or anything that might need to look crisp on high-res screens.

Use it when:

• Uploading your logo to your website

• Creating scalable graphics for social media or apps

• Sending your logo to developers

2. PNG – Portable Network Graphic

Best for: Digital use (especially where you need a transparent background)

Why it’s great: PNGs are raster images (made of pixels), and they support transparency—so no awkward white boxes around your logo when you pop it on a coloured background.

Use it when:

• Posting your logo online or on social media

• Placing it over coloured or textured backgrounds

• Creating presentations or basic digital documents

3. JPG (or JPEG) – Joint Photographic Experts Group

Best for: Basic web and digital use (no transparency)

Why it’s great: JPGs are widely compatible and easy to use. However, they don't support transparent backgrounds and can become blurry if resized too much.

Use it when:

• You need a small file size for fast loading

• Transparency isn’t important

• Using your logo in a Word doc or email

4. PDF – Portable Document Format

Best for: Versatile sharing, print, and previews

Why it’s great: PDFs can contain vector data and are ideal for sharing with clients, printers, or colleagues. They’re viewable on nearly any device and often preserve layers and quality.

Use it when:

• Sending your logo to a printer

• Including your logo in a brochure or presentation

• Sharing a logo preview in a clean, easy-to-open format

5. EPS – Encapsulated PostScript

Best for: Professional print and large-scale projects

Why it’s great: EPS files are industry-standard for high-quality vector artwork. They’re especially useful for printers, designers, and anyone doing large-format work like signage or packaging.

Use it when:

• Sending your logo to another designer

• Creating printed materials like banners, posters, or merchandise

• You need a file that scales perfectly for professional use

A Quick Note on “Vector” vs “Raster”

Think of vector files (like SVG, EPS, and some PDFs) as formulas—no matter how big you stretch them, they stay crisp and clean. Perfect for print and scaling.

Raster files (like JPGs and PNGs) are made of pixels—zoom in too much, and they’ll go blurry. Ideal for web and everyday digital use, just not for big-scale printing.

Final Thoughts

Having a logo isn’t just about how it looks—it’s also about having the right formats ready to go and knowing how to use each. When you’re working with a designer (like me!), you should be supplied with a logo pack that includes all the essential file types you’ll need for both print and digital. This will include lots of different file types of what appears to be the same image, but each is great for different uses,

Save those files somewhere safe, and you’ll be ready for anything—from printing your first business cards to launching a brand-new website (remember to use vector files like a pdf where possible for print to guarantee high-quality printing).

Still confused about which file you need for a specific job? Just ask—your designer will be happy to help.