SVG vs PNG: which should you use?

SVG is vector and scales infinitely; PNG is raster and universally supported. The choice comes down to what you're displaying.

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At a glance

SVGPNG
TypeVectorRaster (pixels)
ScalingInfinite, no blurBlurs when enlarged
Best forLogos, icons, shapesPhotos, complex images
File size (simple art)TinyLarger
Editable in codeYesNo

Use SVG for logos and icons

Because SVG is math, not pixels, a logo stays razor-sharp at any size — from a favicon to a billboard. It's also small and style-able with CSS.

Use PNG for photos and wide support

Photographs and detailed images don't suit SVG — use PNG (or JPG/WebP). PNG also works in the few places that reject SVG, which is when converting SVG to PNG helps.

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Related guides

SVG vs PNG: which should you use? — FAQ

For logos, icons and simple shapes, yes — SVG scales without blur and is tiny. For photos, PNG (or JPG/WebP) is the right choice.