.ai — Adobe Illustrator Artwork
Illustrator's editable vector artwork format for logos, icons, illustrations, and print layouts.
About this format
AI files are working files for Adobe Illustrator. Modern AI files often include PDF-compatible data, but editability and compatibility depend on how the file was saved.
Use AI for design source handoff. Export SVG, PDF, PNG, or EPS depending on where the artwork will be used.
Real-world samples & file sizes
Four real public-domain Adobe Illustrator files from fresh vector downloads. Browser previews use the source-provided covers because .ai files are not web-renderable.
Internet Search AI
A PDF-compatible Illustrator file with a web-search illustration and a square source cover.
Time Management AI
A compact Illustrator sample for checking PDF-compatible AI import and preview metadata.
Cleaning Rag AI
A brighter Illustrator file with large flat shapes and a denser color field.
Automatic Hand AI
A PDF-compatible AI sample with isolated machinery artwork and simple object layers.
Pros
- +Preserves Illustrator editability
- +Good for complex vector artwork
- +Standard in many brand and print handoffs
Cons
- −Best support requires Illustrator
- −Browsers do not render AI directly
- −Compatibility depends on save options
AI vs other formats
| vs | Size | Quality | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| SVG | SVG often smaller for web icons | Both can be vector | SVG is web delivery; AI is source editing. |
| EPS | Varies | AI is more editable in Illustrator | EPS is better for legacy print interchange. |
Where it works
- Requires a compatible design app
- Browsers do not render AI directly
- Adobe Illustrator
- Affinity Designer
- Inkscape with limitations
- CorelDRAW
Related tools
Frequently asked questions
- Can I preview AI without Illustrator?
- Sometimes, if the file was saved with PDF-compatible data. Otherwise use a converter or design app.
- Should logos be delivered as AI?
- AI is good as an editable source, but also export SVG, PDF, and PNG for actual use.
Sources
- Adobe Illustrator supported file formats - Illustrator import/export format guidance