SVG Format — What is Scalable Vector Graphics?
SVG is a vector image format based on XML. Unlike raster formats, SVG images can be scaled to any size without quality loss, making them ideal for logos and icons.
Extension
.svg
Compression
Lossless
Transparency
Yes
MIME Type
image/svg+xml
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- • Infinite scalability
- • Small file size for graphics
- • Editable with text editors
- • CSS/JS scriptable
❌ Cons
- • Not suitable for photos
- • Complex images are large
- • Security considerations
- • Rendering variations
Best Use Cases
- Logos and icons
- Illustrations
- Interactive graphics
- Responsive design
Technical Details
SVG uses XML markup to describe two-dimensional graphics. It supports shapes, paths, text, filters, animations, and can embed raster images. It's resolution-independent.
History
SVG was developed by W3C starting in 1999 and became a recommendation in 2001. Modern browser support is excellent, making it a standard for web graphics.