Image Format Comparison

TIFF vs EPS: Raster vs Vector for Print Production

TIFF and EPS serve different roles in print production that often complement each other. TIFF is the standard raster format for photographs, scanned documents, and pixel-based graphics. EPS is the standard vector format for logos, illustrations, and type — stored as PostScript instructions that can be scaled infinitely without pixelation.

TIFFvsEPS

Quick Verdict

Use TIFF when…

Use TIFF for photographs, scanned images, and any raster content at 300 DPI or higher for print. TIFF preserves exact pixel values losslessly and is universally accepted by print shops and desktop publishing software.

Use EPS when…

Use EPS for logos, vector illustrations, and type that will be placed in InDesign or QuarkXPress layouts. EPS scales to any print size without pixelation — ideal for elements used at multiple sizes.

TIFF vs EPS: Feature Comparison

Feature	TIFF	EPS
Format type	Raster (pixels)	Vector (PostScript)
Scalability	Resolution-dependent	Infinite (crisp at any size)
Photographs	Ideal	Not suitable
Logos and icons	Works (must be high-res)	Ideal
File size	Large (uncompressed raster)	Smaller for simple shapes
Software support	Universal	Universal in print tools
CMYK color	Yes	Yes

When TIFF wins

✓Format type: Raster (pixels)
✓Scalability: Resolution-dependent
✓Photographs: Ideal

When EPS wins

✓Format type: Vector (PostScript)
✓Scalability: Infinite (crisp at any size)
✓Photographs: Not suitable

Frequently asked questions

Can I embed a TIFF in an InDesign layout?

Yes — InDesign places TIFF files natively. TIFF is the preferred format for placed photographs in print layouts. Ensure the TIFF is at 300 DPI at its final print size. CMYK TIFF is preferred for CMYK print workflows to avoid color conversion surprises at the RIP. RGB TIFF works but may be converted to CMYK during printing, sometimes with unexpected results.

Can TIFF contain vector data?

No — TIFF is a purely raster format. It stores pixel values, not PostScript or vector paths. Some tools add custom metadata chunks to TIFF, but the image data is always raster. For vector-in-raster workflows: embed EPS in a layout (not in a TIFF). For a format that's both vector and raster: PDF supports both in the same document.

Which does a print shop prefer — TIFF or EPS?

For photographs: TIFF at 300 DPI CMYK. For logos and vector artwork: EPS or PDF. The industry is moving toward PDF for complete print delivery (PDF/X-1a for compatibility, PDF/X-4 for modern RIPs). EPS is still accepted everywhere but is considered legacy. TIFF remains the preferred format for photographic content, even in all-PDF workflows.