How to use the print size calculator
- To see how big you can print, drop in a photo or type its width and height in pixels, then pick a DPI. 300 is the standard for sharp photo prints.
- Check the standard sizes table. Each size shows the DPI it would print at, a quality rating, and how much would be cropped if the shape doesn't match.
- To plan a print, switch to How many pixels do I need?, pick a size, and see the pixels and megapixels required.
- If a print shop wants a 300 DPI file, use Set the DPI in a file. The picture stays exactly the same.
What DPI do I need for printing?
- 300 DPI: the standard for photo prints, magazines, and anything viewed up close.
- 240 DPI: looks just as sharp to most people and is common for fine-art inkjet prints.
- 150 to 200 DPI: fine for larger prints viewed from a few feet away, like canvas, metal prints, and posters.
- Under 100 DPI: only for very large banners and signs viewed from across a room.
Metal, canvas, and acrylic prints are usually hung and viewed from a distance, so they can look great at lower DPI than a small paper print held in your hand.
When it comes in handy
- Ordering prints. Check whether a photo will look sharp at 16 × 20 before you pay for it.
- Selling prints. Decide which sizes to offer for each image in your shop.
- Magazine and flyer layouts. Make sure images are big enough for the space they fill on the page.
- Print shop requirements. Set files to 300 DPI when an order form requires it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between DPI and PPI?
Strictly, PPI (pixels per inch) describes an image file and DPI (dots per inch) describes a printer. In everyday use they mean the same thing: how many of your image's pixels go into each inch of the print.
Does changing the DPI make my photo sharper?
No. The DPI setting is only a label inside the file. What matters for print quality is the number of pixels. A 6000 × 4000 photo prints 20 × 13.3 inches at 300 DPI whether its label says 72 or 300.
How big can I print a 12-megapixel photo?
A typical 12 MP photo is 4000 × 3000 pixels, which prints about 13.3 × 10 inches at 300 DPI, or around 20 × 15 inches at 200 DPI for a print viewed from a few feet away.
Why does the table mention cropping?
Camera photos are usually 3:2 or 4:3, while print sizes come in different shapes, like 8 × 10 (5:4) or 5 × 7. When the shapes don't match, part of the photo has to be trimmed off to fill the print. The table shows how much.
Is my photo uploaded?
No. Sizes are read and DPI is changed in your browser, and your photos never leave your device.