What is the difference between raster and vector images?
Raster images are composed of pixels and can lose quality when resized, whereas vector images are made up of paths defined by mathematical equations, allowing them to be scaled infinitely without loss of quality. To turn a raster image into a vector, you need to convert it to vector graphics using specific software or tools. Read more about the difference between a raster and a vector.
How to convert PNG to vector?
Programs like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape allow you to vectorize a PNG by tracing the image and creating a vector version of it. Use our online tool or one of these programs to convert an image to vector format.
How does this tool convert the image to vector?
1. Image Processing
- Loading and Preprocessing: The library loads the raster image from an
<img>element or a canvas and preprocesses it. - Color Quantization: It reduces the number of colors in the image using color clustering algorithms like K-means to make vectorization more efficient.
2. Edge Detection
- Thresholding: The image is converted to grayscale, and a threshold is applied to create a binary image highlighting the edges.
- Edge Tracing: Edge detection algorithms, such as the Canny edge detector, are used to find the edges in the binary image.
3. Path Generation
- Contour Detection: Contours or boundaries of different shapes are identified from the detected edges.
- Path Fitting: These contours are fitted with vector graphic primitives, such as Bezier curves, to represent the shapes in the vector graphic.
4. SVG Output
- Path Conversion: The detected paths and shapes are converted into SVG path commands.
- SVG Generation: The library assembles these SVG path commands into a complete SVG file or data string.
How to convert a PNG to vector in Illustrator?
In Adobe Illustrator, you can convert a PNG to vector by using the Image Trace feature. Open the PNG file, select it, and use the Image Trace option to create a vector from the image. Adjust settings as needed to refine the vector output.
How to convert PNG to vector in Photoshop?
Photoshop does not natively support converting PNG to vector formats directly. To achieve this, you can use Photoshop to prepare the image and then export it to a vector-compatible program like Illustrator to convert the image to vector graphic.
How to convert PNG to vector in Inkscape?
In Inkscape, convert PNG to vector by opening the PNG file and using the Trace Bitmap feature. This tool will help you create vectors from the image and export it as a vector file.
How to vectorize an image for free?
You can turn an image into a vector file using our online tool. Upload your image to the tool, and follow the instructions to convert the image into vector format. Many online converters offer basic vectorization features at no cost.
What are the benefits of making an image into a vector?
Converting an image into a vector provides several benefits:
- Scalability: Vector images can be resized without losing quality, making them ideal for various applications.
- Smaller File Sizes: Vector files are often smaller and more efficient for storage and web use.
- Editability: Vector graphics can be easily edited and manipulated without affecting the original image quality.
- Sharpness: Vectors maintain sharpness and clarity at any resolution or zoom level.