What is EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)?
Complete guide to the EPS file format
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What is EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)?
EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) is a legacy vector file format based on the PostScript page description language. It was the standard for print production and vector graphics exchange for decades.
While largely replaced by PDF and SVG for modern workflows, EPS remains relevant in print production, sign making, and older design workflows that have not yet migrated to newer formats.
How EPS Works
An EPS file is a self-contained PostScript program describing a single page or graphic, restricted so it can be embedded ("encapsulated") within another document.[3] It begins with a %%BoundingBox comment that declares the artwork's dimensions, allowing layout software to position and scale the graphic without interpreting the full PostScript code.[1] EPS files often include a low-resolution preview image (TIFF or WMF) so an editor can display the graphic on screen even when it cannot render PostScript directly.[1]
History and Standardization
EPS was defined by Adobe as a constrained, encapsulatable subset of its PostScript language introduced in 1985, and it became the dominant vector exchange format for print production for many years.[2] The version 3.0 specification, on which most EPS files are based, dates from the early 1990s.[1]
EPS vs AI and PDF
Whereas the AI format is optimized for editing inside Illustrator, EPS is an interchange format meant to be placed into page-layout documents and printed.[4] Adobe has since deprecated EPS in favor of PDF and SVG, which offer transparency, better color management, and richer features that the older PostScript-based format cannot represent.[4]
Technical Details
EPS vs Other Image Formats
| Feature | EPS | AI | SVG | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Vector[1] | Vector | Vector | Vector/mixed |
| Basis | PostScript[2] | PDF-based | XML | PostScript-derived |
| Specification | Open (Adobe)[3] | Proprietary | Open | ISO standard |
| App support | Wide[3] | Mainly Illustrator | Universal | Universal |
| Browser support | None | None | Universal | Via viewer |
| Best for | Print/prepress graphics | Illustrator artwork | Web vector graphics | Documents |
EPS is a long-standing PostScript-based interchange format for print, though newer workflows increasingly favor PDF and SVG.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
EPS has broad compatibility with print production workflows and RIP software.
Infinite scalability with perfect quality at any size.
Many print shops and sign makers still require EPS format for production.
Vector EPS files are typically small without embedded raster images.
Disadvantages
EPS is largely replaced by PDF for print and SVG for web - not recommended for new projects.
EPS cannot be used directly on websites without conversion to SVG or PNG.
Modern software sometimes has issues with older EPS files.
Standard EPS does not support transparency - PDF is better for transparent graphics.
When to Use EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)
Here are the most common situations where EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) is the right choice:
Legacy Print Production
Use EPS when print shops or manufacturers specifically require this format.
Sign Making
CNC and vinyl cutting machines often use EPS for cutting paths.
Stock Photography
Many stock illustration sites still provide EPS as a download format.
Older Workflows
Maintain EPS format when working with older design systems that require it.
Convert EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) Files
Need to convert your EPS files? Use our free online converter.
Try Image Converter FreeFrequently Asked Questions about EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)
Can I open EPS without Illustrator?
Inkscape (free), Affinity Designer, and CorelDRAW can open EPS files. Ghostscript can convert EPS on the command line.
Is EPS still used?
EPS is still used in print production and sign-making industries but has been largely replaced by PDF for most workflows.
How do I convert EPS to PNG?
Use Illustrator, Inkscape, or our free online converter to convert EPS to PNG at your desired resolution.
What is the difference between EPS and SVG?
SVG is a modern open web standard. EPS is an older PostScript-based format primarily for print.
Can I use EPS on the web?
No, browsers do not natively support EPS. Convert to SVG or PNG for web use.