Never send a raw CDR file to a web developer or a social media manager. Convert it to PDF or PNG first. If you must send a CDR, include a PDF alongside it so the recipient can view it without special software.
The CDR format is exceptionally good at the former. A CDR file can contain a mix of vector objects, text layers, bitmaps (embedded photos), and effects (drop shadows, bevels). This is the number one question regarding this format. Because it is proprietary, you cannot open a CDR file in Microsoft Paint, Preview (Mac), or standard web browsers. cdr format
Learning to manage CDR files is essential if you work with sign shops or legacy print houses. Invest in CorelDRAW or maintain a virtual machine with an old version for compatibility. Never send a raw CDR file to a
PDF (Portable Document Format). PDF preserves vectors, fonts, and color spaces better than anything else. The CDR format is exceptionally good at the former
Unlike raster images (JPEG, PNG, TIFF) that are made of pixels, the CDR format is a . This means it stores images as mathematical formulas describing lines, curves, polygons, and fills. A circle in a CDR file is saved as "a curve with a radius of 50px, center at (100,100), filled with cyan" rather than a grid of 10,000 blue dots.
| Feature | CDR (Vector) | JPEG/PNG (Raster) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Infinite. Scale a logo to a billboard; no quality loss. | Lossy. Enlarge a logo; you see pixelated squares. | | File Size | Small for simple graphics (logos, text). | Large for the same graphic because it stores every pixel. | | Editing | Easy to change colors, move anchor points, and reshape. | Difficult; you must clone pixels or repaint. | | Best Use | Logos, blueprints, decals, laser engraving, embroidery. | Photographs, complex digital paintings. |