Convert type to outlines and set anti-aliasing

Illustrator provides two distinct ways to transform type objects: converting them to editable vector outlines or rasterizing them to bitmap format with controlled anti-aliasing. Each transformation serves different design needs and workflow requirements.

Converting type to outlines transforms editable text into vector shapes that you can modify like any other path object. This is useful when you need to manipulate individual letterforms, ensure font portability, or create logo designs. Rasterizing type converts vector text to bitmap format and applies anti-aliasing to smooth edges, which is necessary when exporting artwork in bitmap formats like JPEG, PNG, or TIFF. Note that bitmap fonts and outline-protected fonts cannot be converted to outlines.

When to convert type to outlines

Converting type to outlines permanently transforms text into vector shapes, removing the ability to edit the text content or change fonts. Use this technique when you need to:

• Manipulate individual letterforms as design elements
• Share files with recipients who don't have access to your fonts
• Create custom logos or wordmarks with modified letterforms
• Prevent font substitution issues in production workflows

Once converted, you can ungroup the outlines and modify individual anchor points, paths, and shapes just like any vector object.

Convert type to outlines

When to set anti-aliasing for type

When you save artwork in bitmap formats, Illustrator rasterizes all objects at 72 pixels per inch and applies anti-aliasing by default. Anti-aliasing smooths the edges of rasterized type by blending edge pixels with surrounding colors, reducing the appearance of jagged edges.

Choose different anti-aliasing methods based on your output needs:

• None: Best for small text sizes or when you need sharp, pixelated edges
• Art Optimized (Supersampling): Balanced approach for general artwork containing text
• Type Optimized (Hinted): Produces the smoothest appearance for text, especially at smaller sizes

Set anti-aliasing options for rasterized type