Convert JPEG to SVG Online
Transform your JPEG photos into scalable vector graphics with our JPG to SVG converter. SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is an XML-based format that describes images using mathematical paths rather than pixels. This makes SVG images resolution-independent—they scale to any size without losing quality, from tiny icons to billboard-sized prints.
Our converter traces the shapes and colors in your JPEG image to create vector paths. The result works in web browsers, design software like Adobe Illustrator, and can be edited with any text editor. Upload your JPG and download an SVG that scales perfectly at any resolution.
Understanding Raster to Vector Conversion
JPEG is a raster format—images are grids of colored pixels. SVG is a vector format—images are mathematical descriptions of shapes. Converting between these fundamentally different formats involves image tracing: algorithms analyze pixel colors and boundaries to generate vector paths that approximate the original image.
Best results come from images with clear edges, solid colors, and simple shapes—logos, icons, diagrams, and line art convert well. Complex photographs with gradients and fine details produce larger SVG files with many paths. For photographic content, consider keeping the JPEG format or using JPG to WebP for better web compression.
When to Use SVG Format
- Logos and branding — scale from favicon to banner without quality loss
- Icons and UI elements — crisp display on all screen densities
- Illustrations and diagrams — edit individual elements in vector software
- Web graphics — smaller file sizes for simple graphics, CSS styling support
- Print materials — scale to any print size without pixelation
Tips for Better Conversion
Start with the highest quality JPEG available—compression artifacts in the source become jagged vector paths. Increase contrast before conversion to help the tracer distinguish edges. For best results with logos, use the original vector file if available; converting from JPEG is a workaround when vectors are lost.
SVG File Size Expectations
SVG file sizes vary dramatically based on image complexity. A simple logo might produce a 5KB SVG. A complex traced photograph could generate megabytes of path data—potentially larger than the source JPEG. For web use, optimize traced SVGs with tools like SVGO that can reduce file sizes by 30-50% without visible quality loss.
If your converted SVG exceeds 100KB, consider whether vector format is appropriate. Complex images with many colors and gradients may work better as optimized raster formats (WebP, AVIF) rather than heavily traced vectors with thousands of paths.
Tracing Quality vs Simplicity
Tracing algorithms balance detail preservation against output complexity. Higher detail settings capture more nuance but create larger files with more paths. Lower settings produce simpler, cleaner vectors but may lose fine details. The right setting depends on your use case: icons need simplicity, while traced artwork may benefit from more detail.
Related Tools
- PNG to SVG — convert PNG images with transparency
- SVG to PNG — rasterize vectors for compatibility
- JPG to PNG — convert to lossless raster format