Graphics are the soul of a website. HTML and CSS are the core languages that’s used to design a website with the support of JPG, PNG and GIF files. JPG, .JPEG, .PNG is used raster technology, which are made of square pixels. This means, larger the image, the more pixels it uses, which causes the huge file size and the bigger file-size mean a bigger concern for a web designer/developer. We don’t want our visitors waiting too long for images to load, mainly on mobile devices. Not only that, pixels-based graphics also don’t scale very well, which is another big concern for .JPG and .PNG file.

JPG format offer better image compression, whereas PNG format offer transparent backgrounds. So if you need the image with transparent background, then PNG is definitely the way forward; otherwise, JPG. But, it is not the best format to use in that instance.

To solve all this problem with the future ready concept Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) come into existence. SVG is the combination of standards-based cross-platform markup with modern web technologies to give designers, developers and animators abilities they never dared dream of. It is a versatile and efficient file format that offers several advantages over other formats like JPEG, PNG, and GIF. In this article, we'll explore why SVG is considered the best choice for websites.

What is SVG?

Scalable Vector Graphics abbreviation SVG, is an XML-based vector image format. It is made of geometrical drawing instructions, such as shapes, paths, lines, etc., which are independent from pixel size.

SVG did not use raster technology, its use vector graphics technology. Vector graphics are a combination of lines created using math where raster files use pixels or tiny squares of color. This is one reason that SVG is resolution-independent and perfect for responsive websites that must scale along with a device's screen size.

One of the biggest advantages of SVG upon JPG and PNG is the SVG graphics can be controlled by JavaScript and CSS. You can change shape, size and color at any condition. You can also code simple SVG graphics by yourself or use a JavaScript library like Snap.svg to draw your vector graphics.

Generally, SVG make web graphics quite simple and lightweight. Things like logos, maps, icons can be simple SVG images, which are small in file size compared to their raster counterparts.

By the way, here you can get SVG icons for your website at free of cost.

Advantage of SVG over JPG, PNG or GIF?

1. Resolution Independence

One of the standout features of SVG is its resolution independence. Unlike raster formats like JPEG and PNG, which are made up of pixels and can become pixelated when scaled up, SVG images are composed of mathematical vectors. This means that SVG graphics can be scaled up or down without losing quality or sharpness. Whether viewed on a large desktop monitor or a small mobile device, SVG images always look crisp and clear.

2. Small File Sizes

SVG files are typically much smaller in size compared to equivalent raster formats. This is because SVG files contain instructions on how to draw an image using shapes, lines, and curves rather than storing individual pixel information. Smaller file sizes mean faster load times for web pages, which is crucial for a smooth user experience and improved SEO rankings.

3. Excellent for Icons and Logos

SVG is particularly well-suited for icons and logos, which are common elements in web design. Since these elements often need to be displayed at various sizes and on different devices, SVG's ability to scale without loss of quality makes it the ideal choice. Many popular icon sets and logo designs are available in SVG format, making it easy for web designers to integrate them into their projects.

4. CSS Styling

SVG images can be manipulated and styled using Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). This means that designers and developers can apply CSS rules to change the color, size, opacity, and other properties of SVG graphics directly within the HTML or CSS code. This level of control allows for dynamic and interactive graphics without the need for multiple image files.

5. Accessibility and SEO Benefits

SVG images are inherently accessible because they are made up of text-based code that can be read by screen readers. This makes websites using SVG more inclusive and compliant with accessibility standards. Additionally, search engines can easily index and parse SVG content, which can positively impact SEO efforts.

6. Animation Capabilities

SVG supports animation through the use of CSS animations or JavaScript libraries like SMIL. This allows for the creation of interactive and engaging graphics and animations directly within the SVG file. Animations can be used to enhance user interfaces, explain complex concepts, or simply add a touch of interactivity to a website.

Conclusion

SVG has rightfully earned its place as the preferred file format for many web designers and developers. Its resolution independence, small file sizes, versatility, and accessibility make it an excellent choice for a wide range of web design elements. When used effectively, SVG can contribute to faster-loading websites, improved user experiences, and visually appealing designs. As web development and design continue to evolve, SVG remains a crucial tool in the modern web developer's toolkit.

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Why SVG is BEST for a Website?