What can you use the application for?
VectorMagic is a web based application which simplifies the process involved in vectorizing an image which was traditionally a very time consuming and difficult task. Vector Magic offers a tracer application that converts raster (bitmap) images into vector images. Unlike some competing software services this is simple, and you are talked through the whole process. Simply uploading your images and then following the instructions should be enough. Vectorization or tracing was always done by hand; Vector Magic is completely automated and can make this job much less time consuming and difficult.
What is the history and popularity of the application?
The application was originally located at Stanford and offered free conversion of raster images into vector images. However that’s all changed now and there are a number of different ways to pay for the service, the web application is still available, or alternatively there is a download version to run on your computer.
What are the differences to other applications?
Vector Magic is a very popular tracing tool for a number of reasons:
- Accurate – Vector Magic is much more effective than many of the other tools, it will create a high quality and accurate vector image.
- Cleanup – Because this software is more accurate you won’t have to worry so much about cleaning the image up. Sometimes you don’t even need to do any clean up.
- Interface – Vectorizing an image is traditionally very complicated, however vector magic makes it really easy. There are no strange settings; everything is kept as simple as possible.
How does the application look and feel to use?
VectorMagic is a wonderful application to use, if you’ve ever used anything to convert a raster image into a vector image then you will know just how complicated the process can get. There might be dozens of confusing options and settings, and even then you might get strange results. VectorMagic makes vectorizing images really easy, you simply upload your image then click the buttons and follow the instructions on the screen until you get your finished vector image. What’s more this tool is very accurate which means you don’t need to waste as much time cleaning the finished image up.
How does the registration process work?
Registering just requires you to enter your email address; a password is then automatically created and emailed to you. You can specify your own password if you want by clicking the small link just under the email text box. Once you have signed up you are given 2 free tokens to try the service out, after that however you will have to buy more. The registration sends an email that you have to confirm and read to get your password.
What does it cost to use the application?
When you sign up to the application you get 2 free credits to convert 2 images into vector format. However if you want any more then you will have to purchase either the software download, monthly subscription, or credit packs. It is still possible to purchase packs of 5, 10 or 20 credits rather than choosing a monthly subscription, it’s just harder to find the option to do that now. The software download allows an unlimited number of conversions without having to pay anything every month, this is however the most expensive option.
Who would you recommend the application to?
Vector Magic is an ideal web application for people that want to convert raster images into vector formats; these are easier to scale without distorting and useful for a number of different purposes. Converting to vector can be done by hand, but it’s time consuming and a tedious job. Vector magic makes it as easy as pie and so it’s perfect for professionals and amateurs alike. No matter the reason why you want a vector image you will find vector magic a real joy to use compared to many of the other tools out there.
