20 Advantages of SVG Animations & Why Use Them

Welcome to the world of SVG animations! Our mission is to encourage the extensive use of SVG, so we put up this list about the 20 most important advantages of SVG for you. If you would like to create engaging SVG animations but are still a bit unsure if it’s worth it, we've got you covered.

Let us guide you through the SVG advantages you'll need to know about and learn why this format is an excellent choice for you!

Table of Contents:

What is an SVG?

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is a vector image format based on XML. It is infinitely scalable and it has support for interactivity and animation. SVG is ideal for logos, icons, diagrams, animations, and other web illustrations, because it tends to have smaller file sizes than other formats.

1. SVG Is Responsive - Looks Good on Any Screen

What more could you wish for in the world of web design than infinitely scalable animations? You are spending hours working on your illustrations, adding vibrant colors and smooth transitions, so you expect to have a high-quality result - and that is what SVG can do for you.

You are probably perfectly aware of the fact that responsive web design is no longer optional. One of the main benefits of SVG is that, due to the vector nature of SVG, your animations will be resolution-independent, so they will always look crisp and pixel-perfect on any display - even on ultra-high resolution displays!

At first, you may have thought about using the widespread GIF format or adding JPG or PNG to your project. These raster formats are perfect for non-line art images, photographs, and detailed graphics, but they aren’t the right choice for animated logos, illustrations, and icons.

Being infinitely scalable, you can have a single SVG, even when you want to use the same illustration in different sizes for all device types.

You can stop worrying about how your animation will look on different devices and focus instead on creating amazing illustrations that will power up your website.

2. SVG Has Small File Size

The list of SVG benefits continues with a really important factor that can significantly affect your website. You probably agree that when it comes to web illustrations, size really matters. After creating and exporting your work, one of the most critical things is the final file size of your visuals.

Think about this for a moment: size may seem an insignificant issue when dealing with small PNG icons or logos, but even a smaller percentage of decrease in file size can make a huge difference overall. But if you are obligated to use a JPG or PNG, make sure to optimize them and reduce their file sizes. As SVG animations are scalable, responsive, and versatile, there is no reason why you shouldn’t use them on a website, blog post, or other digital platforms. We won’t bore you with the details.

All you need to know is that SVGs are special among other vector formats because they use XML-based markup language, describing two-dimensional vector graphics. This means that the file is using a combination of elements and attributes to specify how the elements should be displayed. Basically, it’s a line of code, just like HTML, and that is why it has a compact size, unlike the array of pixels from raster images.

3. SVG Speeds up Load Times

Have you ever been in the situation where your artworks are absolutely amazing, but you can't use them because of the large size and increased page load time? If yes, you are not alone. We've all been there.

Here comes your savior - you guessed it - the lightweight SVG. The easiest way to improve page load time is by replacing your images with SVG files.

The idea of using animations might scare away some people, but long gone are the days when eye-catching animations were equitable to slower loading times. By using SVG animations, you can give your work a competitive edge and still have a fast-loading website.

How, you ask? Well, SVG files can be embedded inline to your HTML, reducing the number of requests to the server and speeding up your site. Imagine you have 10 PNG icons on your site, resulting in 10 HTTP requests. If you have 10 SVGs inline instead, that means only one request. Sounds good?

4. SVG is better than GIF

The advantages of SVG animations prevail against GIFs in so many ways. Besides infinite scalability, resolution independence, and small file size, SVG does not have any color or transparency limitations. Now let’s see what’s the matter with GIF.

GIFs have been around for decades and originally were meant for small images or with short loops or video from photos. In lack of better alternatives, they served well back then, but nowadays they are quite outdated and inefficient, in spite of their apparent popularity.

Another deal-breaker with GIF is weak support for transparency. If used with a transparent background, they tend to have a halo effect around their edges. You’ve probably already met those gray fringes that are even more visible when there is a high contrast between the background color and the image.

This is because GIF has binary transparency: a pixel can be either transparent or fully opaque, there is no in-between. Fortunately, SVG images can be used on any background without any problems. Cheers again to SVG advantages!

5. SVG Can be Edited in Different Ways

As mentioned above, SVG is made of pure code, and its markup language is quite similar to HTML. It is fully editable and scriptable via CSS and/or JavaScript, making it possible to control the styles of your graphics in a simple text or code editor tool.

If you are a pro in graphic design tools but not necessarily familiar with coding, that’s okay. Fortunately, there are apps out there that help you to remove the code barrier and create SVG animations without any coding skills.

If needed though, web developers can easily manipulate your projects inline using CSS. For example, they can change color by adding CSS classes or changing the SVG attributes to render them dynamically.

Think about it this way: you create a stunning vector graphic in Illustrator, you click Export and choose SVG, and the magic happens. You get a single file that can be used by you and by a developer to make further changes, making it interactive and turning it into a lovely animation that will power up any website.

All in all, if you’re a web designer, it’s high time to know all the benefits of SVG!

6. SVG is SEO Friendly

If you want to make a website or a blog, you know what it’s like being in a never-ending battle to rank higher in Google. There are a series of SEO strategies and tips you might already know, but there is a small trick you may have overlooked: SVG images can improve your site’s SEO and pagespeed!

When using other image formats, search engines read only the titles, descriptions, and alt tags written by you, but in the case of an SVG, they can read the actual content of your visual. Of course, you will still include descriptions, links, and keywords directly in your SVG markup in order to make it even more readable and indexable.

Your SVGs will be indexed by Google whether they are embedded directly in HTML or not. It really is that simple!

7. SVG is Interactive

Are you constantly looking for new ways to design captivating website content, especially if it’s looking too dull at the moment, like this word game site? You must be wondering how you could reach your target audience in a more engaging way. Animated SVGs are here to help in this situation, as they don’t only look good, they can also be interactive. Let us show you how.

Let’s say you created a nice logo, a lovely icon, or a jaw-dropping animation, but you would like it to play only on click or on hover. You may also think that it would be better if your animation would start only when it is visible in the viewport.

Fortunately, these options are possible if you are using SVG, and you don’t even need to learn coding to be able to do them. Amazing, right?

Keep in mind: over 70% of the customer’s interactions with your business are now digital, so you really need to take this into account when creating your designs. Furthermore, 90% of consumers today expect a website to have interactive elements, and they are more likely to visit your website again if they were able to interact with it. If you would like to get ahead of the curve, interactive animations can be your power weapon. If you haven’t created interactive SVG animations so far, give them a try now! It’s easier than you think!

8. SVG Improves User Experience

Don’t you feel a bit overwhelmed sometimes, having to pay attention to so many things when creating web illustrations? Usability and user experience walk hand in hand in a world where statistics rule. Your design should look good and be original, relevant, crystal clear, represent the brand’s identity, and so on. The standards are even higher now with the growing demand for web animations.

What most people don’t realize is that animations are not an unnecessary luxury because, if applied correctly, they will dramatically improve their website.

These animated elements are able to guide the visitors through the whole page as well as through the purchase journey.

Here’s how to do it yourself: let's say you have to create visuals for a delivery business. After the order is placed, users will see an animated character packing the goods, so that customers will rest assured that their parcel will be shipped soon. A nice animation showing secured payment methods will not only demonstrate how easy it is to pay but also builds confidence and trust.

Animated logos will help to guide a user’s attention to the most important parts of the page while giving the website a premium look.

Online shoppers are waiting for exciting, interactive experiences from websites, and they are ready to spend their money on a certain product or service if the brand manages to cultivate a connection with them. This is why animated content is the best way to grab their attention and keep them interested.

9. SVG Engages Users

Do websites need stunning creative artwork that you have been working on for long weeks? The answer is no. Viewers would like to see engaging and interactive content that effectively guides them through the user journey.

In the age of never-ending entertainment, you might find it really difficult to cut through the clutter. As if that’s not enough, according to studies, the average human attention span has also dropped significantly in the last few decades. You’re interacting with hundreds of brands on a daily basis, and you will remember only a few of them - the ones that managed to catch your attention with their unique style and interesting content. Have you been thinking about what captures your attention best when you’re scrolling?

Science-backed trends are embracing moving elements that keep users glued to the screen from the moment they enter your website. Animation is a fun way to give life to a website, and it can lower bounce rates by encouraging viewers to continue their journey.

Staged loading, bright colors, smooth transitions, and subtle animated icons make a website professional-looking and more engaging at the same time. Stay with us now to discover more SVG advantages and the different animation types that can bring your website to the next level.

10. SVG Triggers Microinteractions

We think you’ll agree with us when we say that it’s the attention to detail that separates a good site from a boring one: those small, seemingly insignificant elements that slightly move, morph, or change their colors when triggered by the user. So, what is the first thing that comes to your mind when we say microinteractions? Many would say Facebook’s like button is the best example: when you hover your mouse over it, the six emojis pop up.

Microinteractions are subtle yet effective animations created for specific-use cases. Usually these animations give visual feedback or a feeling of communication after you interact with an element on the page. Their main purpose is to always inform the user as to what happens when an action is performed. These microinteractions tend to remain unnoticed if working properly, but you will realize their importance when they are not.

When you offer design solutions for these microinteractions, you have to know a bit about psychology and other fields of science in order to deliver the perfect products. The easiest way to start is to spice up your carefully thought out elements with a subtle movement in order to create a visual response to actions. Highlight when a feature is switched on or off, showcase important information, animate icons to encourage engagement, and so on. Keep reading to learn more about different types of SVG animations that can really bring your illustrations to the next level.

11. SVG Conceals Load Time

No one likes to wait at a red light, and no one likes to wait too long for a page to load. According to stats, viewers judge a website in just a few seconds before they decide to stay or leave. Even a 1-second delay can decrease customer satisfaction by more than 10%.

Optimizing the loading times might have technical limitations, but developers and web designers can still ensure that the time perceived by the viewer seems to be shortened.

The easier way to conceal wait time is by using loading SVG animations. This is an old practice to delight and entertain users, who would have been irritated otherwise. Of course, in the best-case scenario, the page loads in a second and they don’t have to wait at all. However, in certain cases lag time is unavoidable, but visitors can at least look at a nice animation while waiting.

For example, on a travel website, an airplane flying in circles can be the animated progress indicator. An online pet shop may welcome visitors with a cute animated cat or dog preloader, helping them stay and wait.

You can also use loaders in case of inevitable wait times, for example when flight search engines are looking for the best deals or accommodation websites are searching for available rooms. Have you tried to create animated loaders already? If not, why not give them a try now?

12. SVG is Ideal For Dynamic Backgrounds

Background images can make your website heavier, which can negatively affect load times. But why would you restrict your creativity when you can use SVG as a background instead of other formats? One of the biggest perks of SVG is that your animations can be used as a website background without any significant change in file size.

A beautiful background gives personality to every website, but an animated background leaves a lasting impression on visitors. A well-made, functional animation provides a premium user experience and interactivity. You may try a simple gradient background animation or add glowing particles, color drops, floating objects, transitions between pages, and scroll effects.

Take time to explore the endless possibilities to create subtle or dynamic animations that can replace static backgrounds.

13. SVG Powers up Your Logos

Never underestimate the advantages of SVG logos. This serves as an important asset for promoting brand awareness. It is the symbol of your business and has a major impact on how potential customers perceive your brand’s personality.

A powerful logo is able to set an emotional connection between your company and the target audience. But who said that logos should be static?

One of the reasons that animated logos are worth trying is that they hold the viewer’s attention much longer than static ones. This way you can increase user engagement and raise the interest level of your customers.

As people like unique and fresh designs, an animated SVG logo would be a nice way to surprise them. You won’t believe how such a small thing as a logo can make a difference.

Needless to say, if you choose SVG as your file type, you don’t have to worry about size, resolution, or load times. Let’s create something unique now!

14. SVG Gets Icons to Move

Now let’s have a look at icons. These visual representations of actions, ideas, and objects are an essential part of many websites and interfaces. When used correctly, animated icons can bring many benefits in terms of user experience and aesthetic value.

They can even save space on your page by reducing the amount of text. Animated SVG icons will do a better job of grabbing users’ attention, increasing the chance of interaction with them.

Nice iconography layered with other elements - like photos and backgrounds - can add a bit of extra visual spark to the website and acts as a set of interactive cues guiding users through the interface.

The good thing about icons is that they are flexible elements that come in every shape and form - from outline, glyph, and flat icons to badge style and complex line art. They can be links or decorative elements expressing ideas or providing extra information. By adding hover effects and subtle movement to these elements, you can effectively convince users to click them and continue interacting with your page.

Let’s take, for example, the social icons that are present on the majority of web pages. Turn these static icons into dynamic and interactive elements with a simple color fill animation on hover. Universally recognized icons, such as the magnifying glass, the cart, the recycle bin, or the share icon can be animated in order to speed up the decision-making process. The hamburger icon can also get moving in a playful way; a popular example is the three lines turning into an X.

All in all, animated icons are just cool!

15. SVG Gives Life to Your Characters

Designers like you might spend long hours brainstorming for a design project, then in long days of work create breathtaking illustrations, complex characters, and many other creative visuals for brands and websites. Adding a subtle animation effect to your work can really bring it to the next level and help you to maximize your design efforts.

Now that SVG animation can be done without coding, nothing stops you from incorporating this practice into your daily workflow.

Web animation appeared a long time ago, but it wasn’t really taken seriously back then. It was considered more of a decorative and fun element than a tool capable of improving a website. Things have changed since then, and crisp vector animations are constantly rising in popularity. Think of it as a puppet store: you design adorable characters and give life to them with animation.

They can smile or wave to captivate customers’ attention and make them feel good.

Another example is the space-themed character animation welcoming you on SVGator’s homepage. We replaced our old video with an animated character because we wanted to show something that can actually be made with SVGator, and it is inspiring at the same time. In this special case, the animation is not only a part of the brand’s identity, but it is also a product of it.

The character selection reflects our vision and mission: discovery, innovation, and creating possibilities for the future by encouraging the extensive use of SVG animations.

We hope that you agree when we say that the illustration looks way better in motion than static. So we encourage you to try animating your projects. You will definitely love it!

16. SVG Can Help Explain a Process

Storytelling has become a popular marketing tool because it helps you clearly convey a message or information in more interesting ways than ever before. Whether it's an SMS marketing, social media, or email campaign, telling stories makes it all much better.

Customers prefer animations over text and images because they are more enticing and easier to understand. This is why many brands place short explainer animations on their websites to introduce their products, show processes, and present concepts.

These explainers are extremely useful when it is necessary to condense complex ideas into crisp and attention-grabbing visual content. They show how a product or service is able to offer a solution for a problem, and they can be used in a large variety of other scenarios, too. If we think of less tangible services, such as business consultancy, a nice explainer animation would tell the story of a consultant helping a business to improve its performance.

Nice animated characters looking at a skyrocketing sales diagram would definitely be more engaging than a simple description and some stock photos.

SVG animation is an affordable marketing tool compared to live-action videos, with plenty of room for creativity. In addition, it is also easier to edit and update it when the brand needs future adjustments.

17. Simplifies Complex Ideas

SVG animations may come in handy when you would like to show a concept, statistics, and various other pieces of information in the simplest possible way.

Long descriptions and overwhelmingly complex ideas tend to be boring, but if they are presented in the form of a friendly infographic, chart, or map, they may become the most interesting content of a website.

Let’s take the example of a zoo’s website. A nice interactive map with cute illustrations can serve as a guide for page visitors who would like to quickly check what kinds of animals and sights can be found there. An interactive infographic is the best way to show factual information about various species of animals and has the power to spread knowledge.

These pieces of content are not only attractive but also very easy to understand. Infotainment is here to stay, so a perfect combination of visuals, facts, and animated elements will delight and educate users at the same time.

Get the most out of your infographics and maps by using SVG animations!

18. Makes Line Art Draw Itself

Minimalistic line drawings, as well as complex line art, have been trending for some time now. Clean lines together with negative space are able to create a memorable visual statement and are ideal for icons, logos, and sophisticated web illustrations. Tons of websites integrated line animations into their brands along with aesthetically pleasing photos, backgrounds, and patterns.

A playfully animated line drawing is a simple yet clever element of design, keeping your page clean and stylish. You can add path animation to logos, icons, borders, and other line illustrations. The handwriting effect is also a nice way to attract attention to a short text or signature. This effect gives the impression that the site is personally communicating with the user. Combine self-drawing and self-erasing lines for the ultimate experience!

The marching ants animation consists of moving dotted or dashed lines and is perfect for showing directions, tracks on a map, or connection and relation between elements. It is also ideal for explainer animations that show a multiple-step process, or infographics of different kinds.

19. SVG is Futureproof

A long time ago, vectors appeared as a solution for the demand of high-quality graphics in the advertising and printing industries. They are still one of the best options to advertise your business and continued their successful journey on websites and became a designer’s best friend with the appearance of different digital displays, which have been constantly improving ever since.

Thanks to its infinite scalability, it will be able to keep pace with the constantly improving devices with higher and higher resolution. Due to its small file size, interactivity, versatility, and all of the above-mentioned features, SVG is here to stay and will continue to rise in popularity in the foreseeable future.

If you haven’t used it for animations yet, it’s time to make friends with SVG!

20. No Coding Skills Required

A few years ago, it seemed quite complicated to animate SVG, as it required solid coding skills and not many designers were able to do it.

Take SVGator, a revolutionary online tool that lets you animate SVG in a few simple steps: import your illustrations, select the elements you want to animate, choose an animator, and set up keyframes on a timeline. It’s that simple to create your own web animations! Take your illustrations to a whole new level without writing a single line of code.

The disadvantages of SVG

Now that you know why it is worth it to integrate this file format into your projects, let's go through the few disadvantages of SVG.

• It is not detailed

One of the most important disadvantages of SVG file format is that it is not suitable for detailed and textured images, as it's made of points and paths, not pixels. In case you need more complexity, you should go with a raster format, such as PNG and GIF.

• File size

Although SVG is considered a lightweight format, its size can grow significantly if it consists of a large number of elements or if it is not optimized. You can check our related article to learn more about how to optimize your SVG animation.

• Cross-platform issues

SVG is supported by most modern browsers, but it's still not working on legacy browsers such as IE8 and lower. However, these browsers have a very low usage rate and the number of users is decreasing continuously.

Conclusion

In the light of SVG advantages and disadvantages presented, we can surely claim that the pros outweigh the cons in this case.

If you want to learn how to create stunning SVG animations, check out these SVG animation tutorials and try them yourself for free.