What File Formats Do I Actually Need for My Logo?

Nov 12

(And Why It’s Not Just One)

You finally got your logo — but when your printer asks for an EPS file or your web developer needs an SVG, you’re stuck.
Most business owners in Windsor, Toronto, Hamilton, and Detroit don’t realize until it’s too late that not all logo files are created equal.

If your designer only sent you a PNG, this one’s for you.

Why File Types Matter

Different platforms and uses require different formats.
A file that works great on Instagram will look pixelated on a banner. A logo embedded in an email signature might not show up at all if it’s the wrong file type.

Think of your logo like a wardrobe:
You wouldn’t wear a parka to a pool party. And you shouldn’t use a PNG for print.

The Core Logo File Types You Need:

Here’s your cheat sheet — and yes, you should have all of these:

🟠 1. AI (Adobe Illustrator) or EPS

Best for: Printers, designers, large-scale signage
Why it matters: These are vector files, which means they can scale infinitely without losing quality. You’ll need them for anything physical — like business cards, car wraps, or embroidery.

🔵 2. SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic)

Best for: Websites and digital use
Why it matters: SVGs are lightweight, load fast, and stay sharp at any size. Ideal for modern websites, favicons, and apps.

⚪️ 3. PNG (Portable Network Graphic)

Best for: Social media, web uploads, email signatures
Why it matters: PNGs support transparent backgrounds — perfect for overlaying your logo on different colors or images.

⚫️ 4. JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)

Best for: Basic use where transparency isn’t needed
Why it matters: JPGs are smaller in size but don't allow transparent backgrounds — so they show up with a white box if you’re not careful.

Bonus: Color Variations

You also need different versions of your logo:

Full color
Black
White (for dark backgrounds)
Icon-only (favicon or social use)
Horizontal and stacked variations

This ensures your logo always looks intentional — not crammed, cut off, or awkwardly placed.

TL;DR:

Don’t settle for one file type.
If your designer doesn’t provide AI, EPS, SVG, PNG, and JPG files — you’ll run into major headaches (and delays) down the road.

Want a logo file kit you can actually use everywhere?

We deliver full brand kits with every format you’ll ever need — and none of the guesswork.