Is PNG or SVG Better for Cricut?

What’s the Real Difference Between SVG and PNG?

Let’s break it down simply. SVG files are vector-based, which means they’re made of paths and points. That allows you to resize them up or down without any loss in quality. They’re perfect for designs that need clean, sharp edges—like logos, layered graphics, or anything you're planning to cut with your Cricut.

On the other hand, PNG files are raster-based, meaning they’re made of pixels. They support transparency and high-resolution images, but they can’t scale infinitely without looking blurry or pixelated. PNGs work great for things like full-color prints or sublimation projects—but they’re not ideal for cutting.

👉 Curious how PNGs stack up to vectors in general? Check out our deep dive: 🔥 PNG vs Vector Files – What’s the Difference?

Can Cricut Use PNG Files?

Yes, Cricut can use PNG files, but not in the same way it uses SVGs. When you upload a PNG to Cricut Design Space, it acts like an image. You can size it, print it, and use it for Print Then Cut projects, but it doesn’t come in layers or cut paths like an SVG would.

If you're looking to make funny t-shirts or sublimation mugs, PNGs are awesome. Here’s a good example from our collection: 😂 Funny PNG Graphics You’ll Love — perfect for crafting a shirt that makes people laugh out loud.

Why SVGs Are Usually Better for Cricut Cutting

If you’re doing most of your work with vinyl, cardstock, or other materials that need to be cut cleanly, SVG is the format you want. These files are pre-layered, editable, and give Cricut the path it needs to cut or score with precision.

SVGs also let you separate colors and parts easily, which is a lifesaver if you’re working on layered designs. Want a great starter bundle to test SVG layering on your machine? Try one from our laser cutting SVG collection — they’re versatile for Cricut and laser cutters alike.

When a PNG Might Be the Better Choice

Now, don’t count PNGs out just yet! While they’re not cut-ready, PNGs shine in Print Then Cut projects and photo transfers. If you’re designing custom mugs, t-shirts, or wall art with rich colors and no need for layers, PNG is perfect.

For example, if you want a high-quality design that looks incredible when printed on a tumbler or hoodie, head over to our Premium Product Mockups to see how these designs can come to life before you press that “cut” button.

What Cricut Owners Say – Real World Examples

I’ve talked to a bunch of Cricut users and tested hundreds of files myself. Here’s what I’ve learned:

SVGs are their go-to for cutting because of the flexibility and layers.
PNGs are chosen when working with sublimation or image-heavy projects.
Beginners often start with PNGs because they’re familiar but quickly switch to SVGs once they learn the ropes.

Want to start with something easy? Try out designs from our Christian SVG collection — tons of uplifting and easy-to-cut artwork that looks awesome on shirts, signs, and mugs.

SVG or PNG for Cricut? It Depends on What You're Making

If you're sitting there staring at your screen wondering which file to use, don’t worry — I’ve been there too. Here's a quick cheat sheet:

Use SVG when:

You need layers to cut separately (like vinyl or paper)
You want to resize without losing quality
You're working with text or clean shapes
You're designing something to cut, not print

Use PNG when:

You’re doing Print Then Cut
Your image is detailed or full of color
You want something for sublimation or printable vinyl
You’re not planning on layering

👉 One of my favorite Print Then Cut designs came from our funny shirt PNGs. I used it on a tote bag, and it came out perfectly.

Can You Convert PNG to SVG for Cricut? (And Should You?)

Short answer: yes, you can — but it doesn’t always go smoothly.

You can use tools like:

Cricut Design Space (basic conversion)
Inkscape (free)
Adobe Illustrator (pro-level)
Online converters (mixed results)

But here’s the catch: not all PNGs convert cleanly. If the design has too many colors or gradients, you’ll get a messy SVG with jagged paths. It might look fine to the eye but cut horribly.

That’s why I recommend just grabbing a clean SVG from the start. Like something from our editable template section. These are made to work right away — no cleanup, no stress.

Will PNG Files Work on All Cricut Machines?

Yep, PNGs are compatible with all current Cricut machines:

Cricut Explore Air 2
Cricut Maker / Maker 3
Cricut Joy
Cricut Venture

Just remember — you’ll mostly be printing PNGs, not cutting them. That means you’ll need a solid printer too. (If you're not sure which one to get, we did a full write-up on the best printer for Cricut Print and Cut – total game-changer.)

How I Choose Between SVG and PNG for My Cricut Projects

Here’s how it usually goes down in my craft room (a.k.a. the kitchen table):

If I want crisp, clean lines and layered vinyl: SVG, hands down
If I’m printing colorful designs on shirts or mugs: PNG
If I just need something simple for a last-minute gift: I go to my free SVGs or grab a quick Christian PNG

Real talk — you don’t need to overthink it. Once you’ve played around with both, you’ll know exactly which works best for what.

So… Is PNG or SVG Better for Cricut? Final Thoughts

Alright, let’s settle this.

SVG is better if you’re cutting.
PNG is better if you’re printing.

But the truth is — you need both. Some of my favorite projects blend SVGs for the base cut and PNGs for the print-on pieces.

Looking for examples to get started? Try:

Real-Life Cricut Projects: When I Use PNG vs SVG

Let me give you a few quick examples from projects I’ve actually done:

For SVG:

Custom vinyl decals for car windows — SVG makes clean, crisp cuts.
Layered paper crafts — like cards or 3D shadow boxes, SVG is perfect for stacking.
T-shirt iron-ons using HTV (heat transfer vinyl) — SVG gives you control over every piece.

For PNG:

Print Then Cut stickers — PNG works great for colorful designs.
Mugs with printable vinyl — love this for gifts.
Sublimation prints — especially when I want a high-quality photo look.

Want to try it yourself? Start with our downloadable SVG collections or grab some high-quality PNGs.

Why SVGs Are a Crafter’s Best Friend

SVGs (Scalable Vector Graphics) are amazing because:

They never get blurry, no matter how big you make them.
You can easily change colors and layers in Cricut Design Space.
They're made for cutting, so they almost always produce clean lines.
Most SVG files are editable — like the ones in our editable template collection.

If you’re designing your own files or want to resize designs for shirts, hats, tumblers, or decals — SVG is the winner here.

Why PNGs Still Deserve a Spot in Your Cricut Folder

Even though SVGs are king for cutting, PNG files still have their place:

PNGs support transparent backgrounds, which is great for printing.
Perfect for Print Then Cut features — no weeding vinyl!
Amazing for photographic or detailed graphics.

If you're printing, not cutting, PNG files are ideal. You can find tons of unique ones in our funny graphic collection, patriotic bundle, or our free digital files.

Can I Use Both SVG and PNG in the Same Project? Yep — Here's How I Do It

This is one of my favorite tricks! Sometimes I’ll:

Use an SVG file to cut out a base shape (like a banner or frame).
Then use a PNG for the printed image inside of it (like a photo or quote).
Layer it all together for a stunning mixed-media design.

One time I used our "God Is My Salvation" PNG layered behind an SVG cross cutout for a framed wall piece — it turned out so good I made more as gifts.

Our Final Tip: Always Check Cricut Compatibility Before You Download

Before downloading any file — especially from random places online — check:

Does it have a transparent background if it’s a PNG?
Is the SVG clean and layered properly?
Does the download include multiple file types, like SVG, PNG, JPEG, and PDF?

At QuickDigitalFiles.com, we always list out the formats you're getting — and yep, most of our files come with SVG + PNG + JPEG + PDF included so you can use them however you want.