You've vectorized your logo, and the tool offers four formats: SVG, PDF, EPS, DXF. Which one should you download? The answer depends on what you'll do with it. This guide gives the simple rule for each use case.
SVG — the web and design standard
SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is an open XML format read by every browser and every modern design tool (Illustrator, Inkscape, Affinity, Figma). It's the format to pick for a website — logos, icons: light and crisp at any resolution — for sharing an editable asset, or as a universal source. Its limits: some legacy print workflows barely know it, and it doesn't describe cutting paths.
PDF — the printer's language
Vector PDF is the king of print: it bundles fonts, color profiles and page layout in one document, readable everywhere. Always ask for vector (not rasterized) PDF for printed materials: posters, business cards, packaging. A vector PDF also displays cleanly on screen, but it's less convenient to edit than SVG.
EPS — the veteran still requested
EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) is PDF's ancestor: some screen printers, sign shops and traditional embroidery workshops still request it out of habit. It works in Illustrator and most professional software, but it's no longer developed, handles transparency less cleanly than PDF, and no browser displays it. Provide it when asked; otherwise prefer PDF.
DXF — cutting and machines
DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) is the CAD exchange format: machines read it — laser cutters, CNC routers, vinyl cutters, digital die-cutters. Its specifics: pure geometry (curves converted to polylines or arcs depending on the machine), normalized colors and line weights to mark cut or engrave layers. If you're sending a file to a laser shop, DXF is what they expect.
In short
- Website, icon, editing in a design tool: SVG.
- Professional printing: vector PDF.
- A shop asking for EPS (screen printing, signage): EPS.
- Laser cutting, CNC, vinyl cutter: DXF.
- Embroidery machine: none of those — you need DST, PES, JEF, VP3…
Brode exports every conversion as SVG, PDF, EPS and DXF simultaneously (plus DST, PES, JEF, VP3, EXP, U01, XXX for embroidery): you download the right format for each use without re-converting. On the embroidery side, the machine format guide plays the same role.