Print Size Calculator
See how big you can print your photo at any resolution, in centimetres and inches.
Working with image sizes? Resize a photo online with resize-photo.com
How print size and DPI relate
Print size is simply the pixel dimensions of your image divided by the printing resolution in dots per inch (DPI). More pixels or a lower DPI means a bigger print; a higher DPI means a smaller but sharper one. This calculator gives the size in both centimetres and inches, plus the megapixel count.
What DPI do you need?
300 DPI is the standard for prints held in the hand - photo books, small prints and fine detail. Posters and wall art viewed from a metre or more look perfectly sharp at 150-200 DPI, because your eye cannot resolve the extra detail at that distance. Very large banners can go lower still.
Megapixels and maximum print size
A 24-megapixel file (6000x4000 px) prints about 50x34 cm at 300 DPI, or roughly a metre wide at 150 DPI. You can always print larger than the 300 DPI figure - sharpness just falls gradually - so match the resolution to the viewing distance rather than chasing 300 DPI for every size.
How this calculation works
Formula: size = pixels ÷ DPI
where:
px= pixel dimensionDPI= print resolution
Sources:
FAQ
What DPI should I print at?
300 DPI for photo books and prints held in hand; 150-200 DPI for posters and wall art viewed from a metre or more away.
Can I print bigger than the calculator says?
Yes, but sharpness drops. Below about 150 DPI a print starts to look soft up close, though it can still look fine from a distance.
How do I work out print size from megapixels?
Divide each pixel dimension by your target DPI. A 24 MP (6000x4000) file at 300 DPI prints about 50x34 cm.
Is 72 DPI enough for printing?
No. 72 DPI is a screen convention; prints need 240-300 DPI up close, or 150-180 DPI for large pieces viewed from a distance.