SVG VS PDF
The ultimate comparison guide. Understanding the technical differences between Scalable Vector Graphics and Portable Document Format.
SVG
svgVector format for infinite scaling without quality loss.
Pros
- Infinite scalability
- Small text-based files
- Programmable with CSS/JS
Cons
- Not for photos
- Complex rendering for detailed art
Standard for document exchange, preserving layout.
Pros
- Universal layout preservation
- Security features
- Vector text
Cons
- Difficult to edit
- Not responsive for mobile
When SVG wins
Stay with SVG when you need logos or icons. Its strengths center on infinite scalability and a feature set native to W3C.
When PDF wins
Choose PDF when your workflow prioritizes contracts or manuals. It delivers universal layout preservation plus modern compression perks.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | SVG | |
|---|---|---|
| MIME Type | image/svg+xml | application/pdf |
| Developer | W3C | Adobe |
| Release Year | 2001 | 1993 |
| Best For | Logos, Icons, Illustrations | Contracts, Manuals, Forms, Printing |
Need to switch?
Where SVG still wins
Keep SVG when you need infinite scalability and workflows depend on logos / icons. Link those teams directly to the converter above so they can ship PDF deliverables without leaving their browser.
- • Reference the .svg glossary from this page.
- • Embed the conversion CTA in docs, wikis, and onboarding runbooks.
- • Use PDF for contracts while archiving originals as SVG.
Keep crawlers in the conversion hub
Link this comparison to the relevant tool, glossary, and documentation pages so every crawl discovers a monetizable route.