fbpx

PSD Vs PSB – The Difference Between These Photoshop Files

Last Updated:

PSD Vs. PSB – What’s The Difference?

When you try to save a file in Photoshop, you’ll likely save your image to a PSD or PSB file format. These are the native file types to Photoshop, but there are a few key differences to note between each.

The primary difference between a PSD and PSB file comes down to file capacity. A PSD file can only save projects up to 2GB before it’s unable to save any further information. On the other hand, a PSB file can save projects larger than 2GB while still retaining all the same important file and layer information you need.

Now that you understand how these file types work on a surface level, let’s dive into this further.

What Does PSD and PSB Stand For?

PSD stands for ‘Photoshop Document.’ It’s the standard file type you will use when you save a Photoshop project.

PSB stands for ‘Photoshop BIG’ but is also known as the ‘large document format.’ This file type is only used when you have a large project, or your file is too big to save with a standard PSD.

Capacity Of PSD Vs. PSB Files

The primary difference between each of these file types is that they have vastly different saving capabilities.

A PSD file can save a max document size of 30,000 x 30,000 pixels. Considering most DSLR’s take images around ?6720 x 4480 (30 MP), that’s a pretty lofty number! When you do the conversion, 30,000 x 30,000 makes for a 900 MegaPixel image, which is far more than you’ll ever need.

When you think of it that way, 900 MP PSD files seem like everything you’d ever need. The trouble is, this example only talks about dimensions.

psd-photoshop-file-facts

Once you begin adding additional layers, image adjustments, and more to your project, the file size grows quickly. Unfortunately, with a PSD file, the save limit is 2GB. The moment your project exceeds this size, you’ll need to look for an alternative.

That’s where PSB files come in.

A PSB file has a max document size of 300,000 x 300,000 pixels. This ends up being 9000 MegaPixels, which is, well, insane. It’s safe to say you won’t be crossing that limit with any store-bought camera.

With over 10x the file capacity of a PSD, PSB files are the obvious choice for larger projects. Even if you have a ton of layers and adjustments, a PSB file offers more than enough room to save your project.

psb-photoshop-file-facts

Comparing PSD Vs. PSB Files

To make life easy, let’s examine the uses of each file with the help of a nice bullet list.

– Similarities

  • Both are native Photoshop file types used to save Photoshop Projects.
  • They can be read on both Mac and PC.
  • Each saves layers, file info, transparency, and all other aspects of your project.
  • Primarily used in Photoshop but can be used across other editing software.

– Differences

  • PSD files have a 2GB limit, while PSB files don’t have a limit (that you will reach).
  • PSD files are the default save option, while PSB must be manually chosen in the Format menu.

When you put it all into a list, there isn’t a lot of difference between each file. However, the single point of file capacity is a big one to know about. Especially when you start working with a lot of layers and images, remembering this key difference between PSD vs PSB is crucial.

psd-vs-psb

How To Save Your Project Into These File Types

There’s not much point in knowing about file types if you don’t know how to use them. Follow these steps to save your project as either a PSD or PSB file in Photoshop.

Go up to File > Save As.

Select a destination for your file then click on the Format Menu.

photoshop-file-too-big-to-save-help-4

To save as a PSD, choose ‘Photoshop Document.’

export-as-photoshop-document

To save as a PSB, choose ‘Large Document Format.’

export-as-photoshop-document-2

With your file format chosen, click Save.

export-as-photoshop-document-3
This project will be saved as a PSD file.

When you compare PSD vs PSB files, you start to see where a PSB file becomes necessary. Since a PSD is limited by its file capacity, the PSB option will save the day if your project exceeds the 2GB limit.

Besides file capacity, each of these file types does mostly the same thing. If you aren’t sure which one to choose, stick with the PSD option until you reach the file limit (if you even get there).

Happy Editing!

– Brendan 🙂



Photo of author
I'm a Canadian photographer and photo retoucher turned founder of bwillcreative.com. Around here I help you to decode the mystery of photo editing with no-fluff videos and written guides to help you achieve your creative goals. Outside of shooting photos and my passion for educating, you'll find me mountain biking or on the trails with my dog, Sunny!

Continue Reading:

How To Create Adjustment Presets In Photoshop

Learn how to create adjustment presets in Photoshop in a few easy steps to speed up your work and create consistent edits across multiple images

How To Use The Marquee Tool In Photoshop

Learn how to use the Marquee Tool in Photoshop to crop layers, create basic selections, add selective adjustments, and more with ease.

How To Crop A Layer In Photoshop (3 Simple Methods)

If you're struggling to figure out how to crop a layer in Photoshop, you're not alone. Fortunately, there are a few easy (not so obvious) methods to help you crop a single layer in Photoshop.

How To Use Generative Remove In Lightroom – Complete Guide

Learn how to use the Generative Remove feature in Adobe Lightroom to seamlessly remove large objects from your photos with AI.

What Are Embedded Previews In Lightroom + How To Use Them

Use this guide to help you understand the use of embedded previews in Lightroom along with tips to help you use them in your workflow.

Adobe Lightroom System Requirements For Mac & PC

Here's a breakdown of the system requirements for Adobe Lightroom Classic and Lightroom CC to make sure it will run smoothly on your computer.

How To Outline An Image In Canva

Learn how to outline anything in Canva from outlining images, shapes, text, designs, and more with a few easy steps.

How To Add A Border In Canva (To Images, Shapes & Text!)

Learn how to easily add a border to your designs, images, shapes, and text in Canva using these step by step techniques.

How To Make A Background Transparent In Canva

Learn how to create and export images with transparent backgrounds in Canva to open up more design options and creative styles.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments