DPI Calculator — Print Resolution

DPI = pixel dimension / print dimension (in inches). A 6000px wide image printed at 30cm (11.8 inches) gives 6000/11.8 = 508 DPI — excellent quality. The same image at 60cm gives 254 DPI — still good quality.

At 150 DPI, individual pixels may be visible at close inspection (30cm viewing). However, for prints viewed from 1 metre or more, 150 DPI appears sharp. Large exhibition prints (A1+) are typically printed at 150-200 DPI and look excellent at normal viewing distances.

If the aspect ratio of your print differs from your image, the DPI will differ. The lower value is the limiting factor. To match both, crop your image to the same aspect ratio as the print size before printing.

Most professional print labs print at 300 DPI for standard prints. Large format printers typically use 150-240 DPI. Canvas prints often use 150 DPI. Check your lab specifications — many will accept files at various DPIs and resample automatically.