This is our HTML5 alternative to flash for the visual components on our websites. First, one good news, although the first previews of IE9 only show implementation of SVG, Microsoft does want to implement Canvas as well, and is doing some proofs of concept for the moment (see IEBlog ).
So, for the readers who want a quick and straight forward answer:
- If you are doing graphs, maps, simple animations based on vectors or anything that can be rendered with vectors: Use SVG, you will be able to import your vector graphics done with illustrator, and manipulate it the way you want
- If you are doing animations with effects, bitmap manipulation, games… use Canvas.
I think it is going to be obivous, but it’s still new technologies and it’s good to have a quick reference as to when to use what. If you want a more in depth comparison go here
Good resources to start with canvas I, personally followed the Mozilla Canvas (here) and found also this article being very useful.
Good resources to start with SVG Find a good tutorial at W3Schools.com, and the reference library from mozilla (here)