Depends on the file type - use the drop down list in the 'Save a Copy' dialog to check for possible export formats (don't 'Save as' to not lose any data).
Indeed, PNG is generally heavier than JPG and less suitable for print purposes. But it's the Inkscape raster output format because :
- it supports transparency (not JPG)
- it delivers the best quality image. For example, even hi quality JPEG compression tends to denature reds : more compression artifacts are visible on this color, even at max quality.
For these reason, it's best to first export to PNG, then use a GIMP or equivalent to properly set the best compromise between weight and rendering for the JPG.
I also use Save as copy > PDF feature, as pure vector exchange format. However, beware of filters / blur / patterns loss on complex SVG !
There's an extension for exporting JPGs. Oh, actually there are 2, but I have no idea how well they work or even if they work. You'd have to test for yourself.
Beginners' Questions Exporting in Different File Types
Inkscape.org
I would like to export my images in a file type other than PNG. Can I choose the file extenion prior to exporting?
Depends on the file type - use the drop down list in the 'Save a Copy' dialog to check for possible export formats (don't 'Save as' to not lose any data).
I use inkscape for a lot of things but i generally use Gimp for converting to jpg as an example. It's also free btw.
Indeed, PNG is generally heavier than JPG and less suitable for print purposes. But it's the Inkscape raster output format because :
- it supports transparency (not JPG)
- it delivers the best quality image. For example, even hi quality JPEG compression tends to denature reds : more compression artifacts are visible on this color, even at max quality.
For these reason, it's best to first export to PNG, then use a GIMP or equivalent to properly set the best compromise between weight and rendering for the JPG.
I also use Save as copy > PDF feature, as pure vector exchange format. However, beware of filters / blur / patterns loss on complex SVG !
There's an extension for exporting JPGs. Oh, actually there are 2, but I have no idea how well they work or even if they work. You'd have to test for yourself.
https://github.com/giacmir/Inkscape-JPEG-export-extension
https://github.com/sepastian/inkscape-svg2jpg
However, given the choice, I would almost always choose PNG.
Edit - instructions for installing extensions: https://inkscape.org/learn/faq/#how-install-new-extensions-palettes-document-templates-symbol-sets-icon-sets-etc