300 DPI Explained: Print Resolution That Actually Looks Sharp
Quick answer: supply artwork at 300 DPI at final printed size for anything read at arm''s length — business cards, postcards, flyers and brochures. Large-format pieces viewed from farther away, like banners, stay sharp at lower effective resolution.
What DPI really means
DPI (dots per inch) describes how much image information exists per printed inch. A 1200 x 1800 pixel photo printed at 4" x 6" works out to 300 DPI — crisp. The same photo stretched across a 24" x 36" poster drops to 50 DPI and prints soft.
The math: pixels ÷ inches = DPI. Check any image by dividing its pixel dimensions by the final print size.
How much resolution you need
- Handheld pieces (cards, flyers, booklets): 300 DPI. Text and fine detail are viewed inches from the eye.
- Posters (18"–36"): 150–300 DPI is typically sharp at a couple of feet of viewing distance. Our posters include fully custom sizes.
- Banners and signage: viewed from several feet or more, 100–150 DPI at final size generally looks clean.
Common resolution mistakes
- Enlarging a small image. Upscaling adds pixels but not detail — a soft image stays soft. Start from the original, largest file.
- Screenshots and web images. Most web graphics are 72–96 DPI at small dimensions; they rarely survive print at meaningful sizes.
- Checking DPI without checking size. "300 DPI" only matters at the final printed dimensions.
- Flattening text into photos. Keep text as vector (live type) in your PDF so it stays razor sharp at any size.
Vector vs raster
Logos and type should be vector (AI, EPS, SVG or a properly exported PDF) — vectors scale infinitely without losing sharpness. Photos are raster and obey the DPI math above.
Every order includes a free digital proof, so borderline files get flagged before production. Full requirements: artwork guidelines · file guidelines · templates.
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