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Is my file really vector?

Drop a PDF, AI, EPS, SVG, DXF or image. The checker looks inside the file and tells you whether it is paths, pixels or both, and how large a raster can print.

Order a hand redraw

A file is vector when it is drawn with paths, not pixels. The file extension doesn't prove it: PDF, AI, EPS and SVG can each hold a pasted-in image. This checker reads the file in your browser and counts the paths, images and live text inside.

Drop a file to checkPDF, AI, EPS, SVG, DXF, PNG, JPG and more · up to 50 MB · stays in your browser

Print-size calculator

How large can a raster image print before it looks soft?

Width (px)Height (px)Pixels per inch (ppi)

Prints at 10 × 6.7 in (25 × 17 cm).

Need a certain size?

Target width (inches)

You need 7,200 pixels across at 300 ppi.

300 ppi is the usual target for things seen up close, such as cards, shirts and labels. Banners and wraps seen from a distance are usually printed at about 100–150 ppi.

How the check works

PDF and AI: it reads the drawing commands on each page, up to ten pages, and counts paths drawn, images painted and text set as live type.
SVG: it counts path, shape and text elements, and any embedded image tags.
EPS: it reads the PostScript text for path commands and for the markers Illustrator and Photoshop write around embedded images. EPS results are a best guess.
DXF: it counts the entities and flags polylines left open, which a cutter cannot follow as a closed shape.
Images (PNG, JPG, TIFF, WebP, PSD and more): always raster. It reads the pixel size and works out how large the image prints sharp.

What to do with the result

Vector: Ready for a cutter, press or engraver. Check which format your shop wants before you send it.
Raster: It needs a redraw as vector before it can be cut, separated or enlarged. Auto-trace is fine for a quick preview; a hand redraw gives clean, closed paths.
Part vector, part raster: Often a vector layout with a photo or a pasted-in logo. If the logo is one of the images, it still needs redrawing.
Live text: Convert type to outlines, or send the fonts with the file.
Open shapes: Close and join them before cutting, or ask for a redraw with closed paths.

For the format each shop expects, see Which file to send, by who is receiving it.

Frequently asked questions

Direct answers to what production buyers ask before placing their first order. Question missing? Ask us.

Is my file uploaded anywhere?

No. The check runs in your browser on the file you drop. It only leaves your device if you choose to order a redraw.

Why does my PDF show as raster?

Because the PDF holds a picture rather than paths. That happens with scans, screenshots and images saved as PDF. The extension says vector; the contents are pixels.

Can it check CorelDRAW (CDR) files?

Not yet. It reads PDF, AI, EPS, SVG, DXF and common image formats. Export a PDF or EPS from CorelDRAW and check that, or upload the CDR for a quote.

How large can my image print?

At 300 pixels per inch for close viewing, divide the pixel width by 300 to get inches. Large signs seen from a distance are often printed at about 100–150 ppi. The calculator on this page does the math.

Order now

Upload your file. Get an instant estimate. Order in minutes.

Drop an image, see the complexity-based price automatically, and check out — subscribers debit credits, everyone else pays per job.

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Need something custom? Email hello@vectorwiz.com