Pixels vs lines
The location of the difference between the vector and the first bitmap is the building block for both. Bitmaps are images built by pixels. The pixels themselves are a collection of little squares that have colors. The boxes were arranged and arranged in place. This arrangement is what ultimately forms the digital image. If you are confused, try opening any image on the internet. Enlarge the image to the end. Later, you will see a small box. It is for this reason that bitmaps have their advantages. Each pixel can represent a color, so that the image that appears can be more real. On the other hand, vectors don’t have pixels. In essence, it is a collection of mathematical lines called the Bézier Curve. Try to imagine, many lines are curved and laid out. It is these lines that eventually form the image.
Results after resizing
When you understand pixels, you’ve tried to enlarge the image, haven’t you? Well, that’s the difference between vector and bitmap next. Zoomed bitmap image will break. The reason is, each pixel will look bigger. This will be different if you enlarge a vector image. Mathematical curves do not change even when they are resized, so vectors have the advantage of having to enlarge your image many times. The reason is, the image quality will not decrease.
Document size
The next discussion is still about the bitmap and the pixels. As it turns out, this doesn’t just affect the image resolution, you know! Remember, each pixel has its own color and location. These data have a size that is not small. This creates a large bitmap image. Another case with vectors. The vector does not have a box filled with color and location. This makes the document can be opened faster. The reason is, the size is relatively smaller.
The document form
The next difference between vector and bitmap is the document shape of the two. The basic form of a bitmap is called the Bitmap Image File (BMP). Unfortunately, this file is very large. Therefore, BMP is often processed into lighter. The form of the document also changed. Usually, bitmap file formats that often circulate are PNG, JPEG, or GIF. Meanwhile, the basic form of vectors is Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG).
Flexibility
Have you ever asked, can vectors be converted into bitmaps? The answer is yes. You just need to convert your SVG document to PNG or JPEG. This will convert all math calculations to pixels. Bitmaps can also be transformed into vectors. This process is called raster tracing. Unfortunately, says Filecamp, raster tracing has its own challenges. It takes a long time and is a sophisticated processor. In addition, the end result is not always as good as expected.
When are they used
Now that you know the various differences between vectors and bitmaps, it’s time to answer the core question. When is the use of both appropriate? Product designers are more likely to use vectors. The reason is, broken images on applications or websites can interfere with the user experience. Vectors are also great for logos, digital signatures, to infographics and other illustrations. On the other hand, bitmaps are capable of displaying vivid and rich colors. This makes it suitable for viewing photos. These photos can be used for many things. For example, for recipe sites, tourism brochures, and others.
