

Note: This section of the blog has been updated in January 2023. There is even a new generation of data which features some of the best characteristics of both data types. Many will make impassioned arguments extolling the virtues of one or the other but thankfully since raster can be converted to vector and vice versa there is no need to choose one exclusively. Where is the optimal curbside location?Īs we've seen there are distinct use cases for using either raster or vector data.From which cities do we see the highest demand for our products?.


When working with raster or vector data within the sphere of spatial analysis there are of course a myriad of use cases that can be employed but as has been touched upon already there are specific cases where it can make sense to use one over another.įor example due to the nature of its collection raster is often the only choice when working with remote sensing data captured by cameras on planes or satellites. Needs a lot of work and maintenance to ensure that it is accurate and reliable Higher geographic accuracy because data isn't dependent on grid sizeĬontinuous data is poorly stored and displayed Graphical output is generally more aesthetically-pleasing Linear features and paths are difficult to displayĭatasets can become very large because they record values for each cell modeling water flow over the land surface) Some specific use cases can only be achieved with raster data (e.g. Map Algebra with raster data is usually quick and easy to perform
