Which Is Better?: Raster vs Vector for GIS Map Printing

What Are GIS Maps?

A geographic information system (GIS) stores spatial data representing a city or geographical terrain. But storing the data correctly requires knowing a bit about raster vs vector GIS formats. Each type is fundamentally different and best suited for specific applications.

Why Are GIS Maps Becoming Increasingly Popular?

The Importance of Accurate GIS Map Printing

Understanding Raster Data in GIS: What Is It & How Does It Work?

How Is Geographic Data Represented in Raster Format?

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Raster Data for GIS Map Printing?

What Are the Common Raster File Formats Used in GIS Applications?

Understanding Vector Data in GIS: What Is It, & How Does it Work?

How Is Geographic Data Represented in Vector Format?

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Vector Data for GIS Map Printing?

What Are the Common Vector File Formats Used in GIS Applications?

Comparing Raster and Vector Data in GIS: Which Is Better?

Raster and vector data in GIS applications work very differently. When choosing between raster vs vector GIS format, which is better?

Data Representation on Maps

Raster Data Showcases as Grids

Vector Data Showcases as Geometric Elements

Nature of the Data

Raster Data Is Usually Continuous

Vector Data Is Usually Discrete

The Application of Raster and Vector Data

Raster Data Is Best Suited for Continuous Phenomena (Elevation, Temperature, or Satellite Imagery)

Vector Data Is Best Suited for Discrete Features (Roads, Buildings, or Administrative Boundaries)

Using Raster and Vector Data for GIS Analysis

Raster Data Is Best Used to Observe Proximity and Spatial Operations

Vector Data Is Best Used for Measurements and Topological Relationships

Data File Size Differences

Raster Data Is Larger

Vector Data Is Smaller

The Scalability of Raster vs Vector GIS Formats

Raster Data Has Limited Scalability

Vector Data Has Infinite Scalability

How to Determine Which Data Type to Use in GIS Map Printing

1. Establish the Purpose of the Map (Analytical or Illustrative)

2. How Much Geographic Data Complexity and Detail Are Required?

3. Identify the Output Requirements: Print Size, Quality, Medium, etc.

4. Consider the Resources and Time Constraints.

User Expertise and Familiarity With File Formats

Using Both Raster and Vector Data in Different GIS Map Printing Scenarios

Scenario 1: Large-Scale Topographic Map Printing

Scenario 2: Creating Thematic Maps for Urban Planning

Scenario 3: Mapping Data for Web-Based Applications

Reach Out to HP for GIS Map Printing Solutions

Still wondering when raster vs vector GIS formats are necessary? Contact an HP sales expert, and tell us about your GIS printing needs. We can direct you to the most suitable HP professional print services to help you fulfill client orders with maximum print quality and efficiency.