DPI Calculator
Calculate the DPI (pixels per inch) of an image from its pixel dimensions and physical print size.
How is DPI Calculated?
DPI (dots per inch) describes the pixel density of a printed image: how many pixels are packed into each physical inch. Horizontal DPI = pixel width / physical width (inches), and vertical DPI = pixel height / physical height (inches). A higher DPI means a sharper, more detailed print of a given size.
Example
A 3000 × 2000 pixel image printed at 10 × 6.67 inches gives a DPI of 300 in both directions (3000 / 10 = 300, 2000 / 6.67 ≈ 300). That is the standard print resolution for good-quality photo prints.
Common Use Cases
- Checking whether a digital image has enough resolution for a physical print size.
- Preparing artwork and photos for print shops that require a minimum DPI.
- Understanding scanner settings and the trade-off between print size and sharpness.
FAQs
What is the difference between DPI and PPI?
Strictly, PPI (pixels per inch) refers to a digital image's pixel density, while DPI (dots per inch) refers to the physical dots printed by a printer. In everyday use the terms are often used interchangeably for print resolution.
What DPI should I print at?
300 DPI is the standard for high-quality photos. 150 DPI is usually acceptable for larger posters viewed from a distance, and 72 DPI is fine for web and screen-only content.