EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)
EPS is a vector graphics format based on the PostScript page description language. It was the standard format for vector graphics exchange in print production before PDF and SVG adoption. EPS files can contain both vector and raster data with a low-resolution preview image.
MIME Type
application/postscript
Type
Text
Compression
Lossless
Advantages
- + Vector scalability for print production
- + Wide support in professional design tools
- + Can contain both vector and raster elements
Disadvantages
- − Legacy format being replaced by PDF and SVG
- − No transparency support in older versions
- − Security risks from embedded PostScript code
When to Use .EPS
Use EPS for legacy print workflows and vector graphic exchange with older systems. Prefer SVG for web and PDF for modern print.
Technical Details
EPS files contain PostScript code describing vector paths, text, and optional embedded raster data. They include a bounding box definition and may contain a TIFF or WMF preview for display.
History
EPS was created by Adobe Systems in 1985 as part of the PostScript language. It was the dominant vector exchange format until PDF largely replaced it in the 2000s.