Free Print Resolution Calculator
Calculate the ideal DPI (dots per inch) for any print based on the print size and how far away viewers will stand.
🖨️ Calculate Print Resolution
Recommended DPI
150 DPI
For small poster at ~1 metre viewing distance
📊 Recommended DPI by Print Type
| Print Type | Viewing Distance | Recommended DPI |
|---|---|---|
| Business Card | 30 cm | 600 DPI |
| Flyer / Brochure | 40–50 cm | 300 DPI |
| Small Poster (A2) | 1 m | 150 DPI |
| Large Poster (A0) | 2 m | 100 DPI |
| Banner | 3–5 m | 72 DPI |
| Billboard | 10+ m | 20 DPI |
| Fine Art Print | Close | 300–600 DPI |
| Magazine | Close | 300 DPI |
🧠 Why Viewing Distance Matters
The human eye resolves detail based on angle, not just distance. At arm's length you can see fine detail — at 10 metres, you can't distinguish individual dots. So billboards can be printed at just 20 DPI and still look sharp, while a business card needs 600 DPI.
📐 Print Resolution Formula
For practical use:
- 300 DPI: Anything viewed within arm's reach (30–50 cm)
- 150 DPI: Posters viewed from 1–1.5 metres
- 100 DPI: Large posters viewed from 2+ metres
- 72 DPI: Banners viewed from several metres
- 20–50 DPI: Billboards and large-scale signage