How to use it
- Choose a resolution: 300 DPI for print-quality images.
- Drop in the .ai file.
- Download the PNG. Files with several artboards may give several pages.
How an .ai file can be read without Illustrator
Since the early 2000s, Illustrator has saved its files with an embedded PDF by default, controlled by the “Create PDF Compatible File” option. That PDF is a faithful rendering of the artwork. This converter draws it with the same PDF engine Firefox uses, so you get an accurate image of the design without Illustrator installed.
If the file will not open
If the option was switched off when saving, the file contains only Illustrator's private data, and nothing outside Illustrator can render it properly. The tool will tell you when that is the case. Ask whoever made it to re-save with PDF compatibility on, or to export an SVG or PDF.
Want to keep it as a vector?
PNG is a pixel image. If you need to scale the artwork freely or send it to a printer, AI to PDF gives you the vector PDF inside the file, untouched.
AI and PNG compared
| AI | PNG | |
|---|---|---|
| First released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Compression | PDF-based in modern versions | Lossless |
| Transparency | Yes | Yes, including soft edges |
| Animation or pages | Artboards | Only as APNG, rarely used |
| Best for | Editable vector artwork | Screenshots, graphics, text and transparency |
| Support | Illustrator; opens as a PDF elsewhere when saved compatibly | Universal |
Questions people ask
Can I open an AI file without Illustrator?
Yes, if it was saved with PDF compatibility, which is the default.
Is the background transparent?
No. PDF pages are rendered on white. Use the transparent background tool afterwards for simple artwork.
What about EPS files?
EPS is PostScript, which browsers cannot render. Save as PDF or SVG instead.