Print Size Calculator

How to Use the Print Size Calculator

1. Enter your image's pixel dimensions (width and height) or select a common resolution preset
2. Enter or select your desired DPI (dots per inch) setting based on your print quality needs
3. Click "Calculate Print Size" to see maximum print dimensions in both inches and centimeters
4. View the comparison table to see how print sizes change at various DPI levels
5. Use the megapixel count to understand your image's overall resolution capability

What is Print Size?

Print size refers to the physical dimensions of a printed image, typically measured in inches or centimeters. The maximum print size you can achieve depends on two factors: your image's pixel count and the desired print resolution (DPI). These two values have an inverse relationship - higher DPI settings produce sharper prints but limit the maximum size, while lower DPI allows larger prints but may result in visible pixelation.

Understanding print size is crucial for photographers, graphic designers, and anyone preparing images for physical output. A common mistake is trying to print an image larger than its resolution supports, resulting in blurry or pixelated prints. This calculator helps you determine the optimal print dimensions for your specific image before sending it to a printer.

Recommended DPI Settings

• 300 DPI: The gold standard for professional photo printing, magazines, brochures, and any print viewed up close. This resolution ensures individual pixels are invisible to the naked eye at normal viewing distances.
• 240-250 DPI: Good quality for home photo printing and consumer-grade output. The slight reduction from 300 DPI is rarely noticeable in typical viewing conditions.
• 150-200 DPI: Suitable for large format prints, posters, and banners that will be viewed from several feet away. At greater viewing distances, lower resolution is acceptable.
• 72-96 DPI: Screen display resolution only. Never use these settings for print as the results will appear extremely pixelated and unprofessional.
• 600 DPI: Used for fine art reproduction and museum-quality prints where maximum detail is essential. Requires very high-resolution source images.

Print Size Formula

The formula to calculate print size is straightforward: Print Size (inches) = Pixels / DPI

For example, a 4000 pixel wide image at 300 DPI: 4000 / 300 = 13.33 inches

To convert to centimeters, multiply inches by 2.54: 13.33 x 2.54 = 33.86 cm

Common Print Sizes and Required Resolutions

• 4x6 inches: Requires 1200x1800 pixels at 300 DPI (standard photo print)
• 8x10 inches: Requires 2400x3000 pixels at 300 DPI (portrait prints)
• 11x14 inches: Requires 3300x4200 pixels at 300 DPI (wall prints)
• 16x20 inches: Requires 4800x6000 pixels at 300 DPI (large wall art)
• 24x36 inches: Requires 7200x10800 pixels at 300 DPI (poster size)

Tips for Optimal Print Quality

• Always shoot in the highest resolution your camera offers to maximize printing flexibility
• Avoid upscaling images beyond their native resolution as this creates artificial pixels that look soft
• Consider the viewing distance when choosing DPI - billboards can use 20-50 DPI because they are viewed from far away
• For cropped images, recalculate the print size based on the cropped pixel dimensions
• When in doubt, aim for 300 DPI to ensure professional-quality results