What files should I get at the end of a design contest or 1-to-1 project?

This article explains which design files are given to you by your designer after a design contest on Colorly Space.

It also explains the file types, their uses (print v. digital) and the type of designs they work best for (e.g. logo design, infographic, website etc).

What is each file type, and what are they used for?
There are 3 types of files that you may receive from your designer. Read about each type and how they're used below.

1. Vector files
Vector files are different from raster files because you can scale them up to any size.
Technically, unlike other file types made of pixels, every dot in a vector file is tied to a mathematical equation. That equation makes sure the quality of the image isn't compromised when resizing it.
Vector files are best used for logos and icons because logos and icons are typically used in different sizes and settings.
Types of vector files are listed below:

File type

Best use

Benefits

PDF

Print, web documents

High quality, use-almost-anywhere format

EPS

Vector, logos

Can be scaled to any size without image quality loss

AI

Vector, logos
(must have Adobe Illustrator to edit)

Can be scaled to any size without image quality loss

Sketch

Vector, website design
(must have Sketch to edit)

Can be scaled to any size without image quality loss

XD

Vector, website design
(must have Adobe XD to edit)

Can be scaled to any size without image quality loss



2. Raster files

Raster files are made up of pixels, which means this file type has set size dimensions. When you increase the size of a raster file beyond the original size, the picture will become pixelated and blurry.

Raster files are common for photos, animation, and web graphics. Even though raster files don’t have limitless scaling like vectors do, they can still be used for printing if the resolution is high enough.

Types of Raster files, their best uses and benefits are listed below:

File type

Best use

Benefits

JPG

Web (and print if high resolution)

Small size, great for previews, mostly used online

PNG

Web, transparent background graphics

High quality and color-depth, transparent background

PSD

Photoshop, web images

Editable layers, can be exported to other file types such as JPEG