What is SVG?
A plain-English definition, and the tools that work with it.
SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is an image format that describes graphics as mathematical shapes and paths rather than pixels. Because it's vector-based, an SVG stays perfectly sharp at any size (from a favicon to a billboard) and is usually a small, text-based file.
- SVGs scale infinitely without blurring, which makes them ideal for logos, icons and illustrations.
- They're actually text (XML), so they can be edited in code, styled with CSS and animated, and optimized to strip editor bloat.
- SVG suits flat graphics, not photographs. A detailed photo traced to SVG becomes huge and messy.
Tools for SVG
Free, private and in your browser. No sign-up.
SVG Optimizer
Minify and clean SVG files in your browser with SVGO, strip editor metadata, round coordinates, drop hidden layers and see the exact bytes and percentage saved. Nothing is uploaded.
PNG to SVG
Convert PNG, JPG or WebP to SVG in your browser: trace a raster image into clean, scalable vector paths with adjustable colors and detail, then copy or download the SVG. Nothing is uploaded.
SVG Editor
Edit SVG code with an instant live preview: type in the source pane and watch it render, then Format, Optimize or Minify in one click. A live inspector counts elements, colors and features, all in your browser, nothing uploaded.
SVG to PNG
Convert SVG to PNG in your browser at any resolution. Pick a 1×–8× scale or exact pixel size, keep transparency or set a background color, preview live and download. Nothing is uploaded.
SVG problems we solve
Hit one of these? Here's the fix.
- My SVG file is huge and full of junkDesign-tool exports carry a lot of invisible bloat. Clean it out so your icons and illustrations load faster.
- I need to convert a logo image to SVG (vector)Need a logo that's crisp on a billboard and a favicon alike? Trace it into a scalable SVG, with realistic expectations.
- I need a favicon for my websiteGive your site the little tab icon. Start from a simple, bold logo and export the small square sizes browsers expect.
Frequently asked questions
Related terms
- Vector vs rasterRaster images (JPG, PNG, GIF) are grids of pixels. They have a fixed resolution and blur when enlarged. Vector images (SVG) are defined by mathematical shapes, so they scale to any size without losing sharpness. The right choice depends on whether you need photos or scalable graphics.
- PNGPNG (Portable Network Graphics) is a lossless image format that supports transparency. Because it never degrades on save and keeps sharp edges, it's the go-to format for logos, icons, screenshots and any graphic with text or a transparent background.
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