When to scale down an image vs multiple images

Question

Created Feb ’17

Replies 3

Boosts 0

Views 3.5k

Participants 3

Hello,

I'm working on an app and I had a question about images. I have an image for each level, simple graphic, but I have 10 variations of it in color basically. I"m creating a universal app and I've up until this point have made 3 different images per image:

- one for ipad 2x

- one for iphone 3x

- and one for iphone 2x

I figure that this covers most devices. Anyways, with the 10 variations of the image I would have to create 30 images total. I'm wondering if I should create all 30 images, or if I should create 10 (ipad size) and then scale them down within Interface Builder with constraints?

These images all have the same aspect ratio, so scaling them shouldnt be a problem.

I'm just wondering if there is a good rule of thumb for when I should create all images vs as little as possible and scale them down?

Boost

Answer 1

NotMyName OP

Feb ’17

App slicing and asset catalogs are part of the attempt to address one part of this. Because back in the old days, every single resolution variant would end up in the app bundle.

As far as scaling images down goes, the question to ask is really "How important is pixel perfection in your images to you?"

0

Answer 2

discoveringmypath OP

Feb ’17

In this case, I'm not that worried about pixel perfect, but it is only 30 images at the same time.

Do you have a recemmendation as far as what a good rule of thumb would be?

Are there any other things I need to consider such as App size, etc..

Thanks for the reply

0

Answer 3

KMT OP

Feb ’17

I think 30 images is near the low end in terms of quantity..no big deal, and if you make them to spec/72dpi you'll not have issues. But I'm not sure 30 would cut it...remember, as for support, you need to include non-retina, retina (2x) and retina HD (3x) - and does each image work the same regardless of orientation?

>I'm just wondering if there is a good rule of thumb

Nothing that fits all examples, no.

Of course the only real way to know for sure with your images in your app is to try multiples vs. scaling and then see how the app performs when testing on hardware.

And don't forget what Apple promises (works when followed to a tee, so be sure to get it right):

"When building, Xcode compiles the asset catalog into the most efficient bundle for final distribution."

About app size, see:

0