How to Convert PNG to Vector in Adobe Illustrator
Use Illustrator's Image Trace to convert any PNG into clean, scalable vector paths — the professional workflow.
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Supports PNG, JPG, BMP, WEBP up to 5MB
Why Illustrator for PNG to Vector?
Illustrator's Image Trace is the industry standard for professional vectorization. It produces higher-quality results than automated online tools for complex artwork, and gives granular control over every trace parameter.
Step 1: Prepare Your PNG
Better source = better result.
- Increase image resolution to 600+ DPI in Photoshop if possible
- Remove the background — trace a PNG with transparent background for best results
- Increase contrast: Levels or Curves adjustment to sharpen edges
- Simplify the number of colors if you want fewer, cleaner SVG paths
Step 2: Place and Trace
File > Place your PNG. Select it. Open Window > Image Trace.
- Start with a preset: 'High Fidelity Photo', '16 Colors', or 'Logo'
- Mode: Color for full-color, Black and White for single-color
- Colors slider: drag down to reduce path complexity
- Paths: higher = more accurate but more paths (larger file)
- Noise: higher = ignore small speckles (useful for scanned images)
- Click Trace — preview updates live
Step 3: Expand and Clean
Click Expand in the Properties panel. The trace becomes editable vector paths.
- Select all and Ungroup (Ctrl+Shift+G) to access individual paths
- Delete the white background path if present
- Use Direct Selection (A) to fine-tune individual anchor points
- Path > Simplify to reduce node count while preserving shape
- Check colors match brand guidelines — adjust fill values as needed
Step 4: Export as SVG
File > Export As > SVG (SVG 1.1). Uncheck 'Preserve Illustrator Editing Capabilities' for smaller file size. Check 'Use Artboards' to export at the correct dimensions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Image Trace preset should I use for a logo?
Start with '6 Colors' for simple logos, '16 Colors' for more complex ones. For a black logo on white background, use 'Black and White Logo' preset for the cleanest result.
How do I remove the white background after tracing in Illustrator?
After Expanding the trace, use Edit > Select Same > Fill Color to select all white fills, then delete them. Or use Object > Expand Appearance first, then select the white paths.
My trace has too many paths — how do I simplify?
Reduce the Colors and Paths sliders in Image Trace before clicking Trace. After expanding, use Object > Path > Simplify with 'Auto-simplify' to reduce node count.
Can I use Image Trace on a PDF in Illustrator?
Yes. Open or place a PDF in Illustrator. If it contains raster content, Image Trace works. If it contains vector content, the paths are already editable — no tracing needed.
Is Image Trace better than online vectorizers?
For complex, multi-color artwork: Image Trace gives better control. For simple logos and icons: our free online converter often produces comparable or cleaner results in less time.
Related guides
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