How to convert PNG to SVG
Share
SVGs are widely used in web and graphic design because SVG files can be easily scaled with high quality and small size. Whereas PNG is a raster image format, SVG is a vector format that allows the images to be scaled without any quality degradation. Converting PNG to SVG increases the image quality, helps improve the website's speed, and makes the graphics look good on any screen size.
Understanding the Basics
PNG (Portable Network Graphic) is a raster format famous for its capability to compress image data without losing quality, and it is perfect for photographic images and other graphics with transparency. However, PNGs are resolution-dependent, which means that if you try to resize them, they will become pixelated. On the other hand, SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is a vector image format that uses mathematical representation to store images and hence can be enlarged or reduced without any quality degradation. It is a vector format suitable for logos, icons, and illustrations; it has good flexibility and relatively small file sizes.
Converting PNG to SVG
Using Online Tools
Online converters are very useful and fast to use to convert PNG to SVG, and they do not require one to install any software. First of all, select a credible online converter, such as Convertio or PNG2SVG.com. All you need to do is upload a PNG file, set any available preferences that you want (for instance, colour depth or simplification), and then click on the ‘Convert’ button. When the conversion is done, you will be able to download your newly created SVG file. This method is preferable for those who want to get the results quickly and do not need many customisation options.
Using Graphic Software
To have better control of the conversion, graphic software like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape is advised. In Illustrator, select your PNG image and click on ‘Object’ and then ‘Image Trace’ and then ‘Make’ to make it into a vector graphic. Adjust the settings to your preference, and when you are done, go to the file and save it as an SVG.
Inkscape, for instance, has a similar process. Select your PNG image, go to ‘Path’ and select ‘Trace Bitmap’, then set your preferences. Lastly, export the vector to an SVG file format. Both tools have enhanced features for conversion and editing operations.
Manual Conversion
For users who are knowledgeable about coding, SVG creation can be done manually. Define paths and shapes directly in XML; you will get a highly specialized SVG file. However, it will take a lot of time, and you should be well-versed in the field of vector graphics.
Conclusion
Converting PNG to SVG has benefits such as the possibility of scaling and file size. Both online tools and graphic software are easy to use and can be applied to web and graphic design. Apply these methods today to improve the quality of your images and make them more effective.