Print Resolution Calculator
Find print size from pixels and DPI.
300 for photos, 150 for posters
Results update as you type.
How it works
Whether an image will print sharply at a given size depends on its pixel dimensions and the print resolution, and this calculator finds the maximum quality print size. You enter the image's width and height in pixels and the target DPI (dots per inch), and it returns the print dimensions in inches. The calculation divides each pixel dimension by the DPI: at 300 DPI, the standard for high-quality photo prints, a 3000-pixel-wide image prints 10 inches wide. DPI is the key trade-off — printing at a higher DPI uses more pixels per inch for a crisper result but yields a smaller maximum print, while a lower DPI stretches the same pixels over a larger area at the cost of sharpness. For photos viewed up close, 300 DPI is the gold standard; for posters and banners viewed from a distance, 150 DPI or even less looks fine because the viewer isn't examining fine detail. This calculator helps you check whether a photo has enough resolution for a desired print size before you order prints or send files to a printer. If the calculated size is smaller than you want, you either need a higher-resolution image or must accept a lower DPI. Enter the pixel dimensions and DPI to find the print size.
Print size (in) = pixels ÷ DPI
The physical print size in inches equals the image's pixel dimension divided by the print resolution in dots per inch. Higher DPI packs more pixels into each inch, giving a smaller but sharper print, while lower DPI spreads pixels out for a larger but coarser print.
Source:Print resolution basics
We review all our tools from time to time to ensure accuracy.
Worked example
How to use this calculator
- 1
Enter your values
Enter image width and image height.
- 2
Adjust the options
Adjust print dpi if they apply — sensible defaults are already set.
- 3
Read your result
Print width updates instantly as you type — no button to press.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find the print size of an image?
Divide each pixel dimension by the print DPI. A 3000-by-2400-pixel image at 300 DPI prints 10 by 8 inches. Choose your DPI based on viewing distance: 300 for photos held close and 150 or less for posters viewed from afar. The calculator gives both print dimensions from your pixels and DPI.
What DPI should I use for printing?
For high-quality photo prints viewed up close, 300 DPI is the standard. For larger prints like posters and banners that are viewed from a distance, 150 DPI or even lower looks perfectly sharp because the eye can't resolve fine detail from far away. Higher DPI means better detail but a smaller maximum print size for the same image.
What is the difference between DPI and PPI?
PPI (pixels per inch) technically refers to the pixel density of a digital image or screen, while DPI (dots per inch) refers to the ink dots a printer lays down. In everyday use they are often used interchangeably for print resolution. For this calculation, treat the DPI value as the pixels per inch you want in the print.
Can I print larger than the calculated size?
Yes, but quality drops. Printing larger than the size at your target DPI means fewer pixels per inch, so the image looks softer or pixelated up close. It can still look fine if viewed from a distance. Upscaling software can add pixels to enable larger prints, though it cannot create true detail that was never captured.
How many megapixels do I need for a print?
Multiply the desired print dimensions in inches by your DPI to get the required pixels per side, then multiply those together. A 10-by-8-inch print at 300 DPI needs 3000 by 2400 pixels, or about 7.2 megapixels. Larger prints or higher DPI require more megapixels, so check your camera or file resolution against the target.