Print Size Guide
The ultimate reference for international paper sizes, standard US formats, and photo prints. Check pixel requirements for any DPI.
Printing (300 DPI)
Always use 300 DPI for physical printing. If your image resolution is lower, the print will look pixelated or blurry.
Screens (72/144 DPI)
Web images usually use 72 DPI. High-density retina displays use 144 DPI or higher, but web standards still default to 72.
Understanding Print Sizes
ISO 216 (A-Series)
The A-series (A0, A1, A2, A3, A4) is based on the "German Standard" (DIN 476). It uses a unique aspect ratio of 1:1.414. The magic is that if you fold an A3 sheet in half, you get exactly A4. This makes scaling artwork incredibly easy.
US Sizes
US sizes are based on inch measurements. Letter (8.5x11"), Legal (8.5x14"), and Tabloid (11x17") are commonly used in North America, Canada, and parts of Mexico. They do not scale perfectly like ISO sizes.
Paper Weight Guide (GSM)
Standard office paper. Used for photocopying and text documents.
Thicker "Flyer" paper. Good for brochures, posters, and minimal show-through.
Cardstock. Used for Business Cards, Postcards, and Wedding Invites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'A4' stand for?
A4 is part of the ISO 216 standard. The 'A' series is based on the logic that halving a sheet of paper (e.g., A3) creates the next size down (A4), while maintaining the same aspect ratio (1:1.414).
What is the difference between A4 and US Letter?
A4 (210x297mm) is narrower and taller than US Letter (216x279mm). If you print an A4 document on Letter paper, the top and bottom will be cut off, or the content will shrink.
How many pixels is A4 at 300 DPI?
At 300 DPI, an A4 page is 2480 x 3508 pixels. This is the resolution needed for crisp, professional printing. For screens (72 DPI), it is only 595 x 842 pixels.
What paper size is A0 used for?
A0 is huge (1 square meter) and is typically used for technical drawings, architectural plans, and posters. It fits 16 sheets of A4 paper.
What is the 'B-Series' paper used for?
The B-Series is used when A-Series is too small or too big. It's common for book printing and posters. For example, B5 is a popular size for books.
What is GSM in paper?
GSM stands for 'Grams per Square Meter'. It measures paper weight/thickness. Standard office paper is 80gsm. Flyers work best at 150gsm. Business cards are usually 300-350gsm.
Can I print US sizes in Europe?
It's difficult. Most printers in Europe/Asia/Australia are stocked with ISO paper (A4). You would need to buy special 'Letter' paper or trim existing stock.
What is the standard poster size?
There isn't one single standard. In the US, 18x24 inches and 24x36 inches are common. Internationally, A1 and A2 are the standard poster sizes.
What size is a 'Tabloid'?
Tabloid is a US size measuring 11 x 17 inches. It is roughly equivalent to two 'Letter' pages side-by-side (or one Ledger page).
What resolution do I need for a large banner?
For very large formats like billboards or bus stops, you don't need 300 DPI because people view them from a distance. 100-150 DPI is usually sufficient.