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Image DPI & print checker

Check real pixel density, transparency and margins before sending artwork to print.

Know your pixels before you print

Effective PPI is actual pixels divided by print size in inches. A 3000 × 3600 pixel image printed at 10 × 12 inches has 300 PPI on both axes. This tool also measures zero-alpha and partial-alpha pixels and transparent edge margins. It does not certify printer acceptance.

Check if your image is high enough resolution to print

A photo that looks sharp on screen can print soft or pixelated if it does not have enough pixels for the paper size. This image DPI checker calculates the effective pixels per inch on each axis for the exact size you plan to print, compares it with your target, and also reports transparency and empty transparent margins — common reasons artwork gets sent back by a print shop.

  1. Choose artwork. Up to 20 PNG, JPEG or WebP files (20 MB each, 24 megapixels per image).
  2. Enter the print size. Width and height in inches or centimeters. If the design runs to the edge, include the bleed your printer asks for.
  3. Set the target PPI. 300 is the default; use your printer's value if it is different.
  4. Review the results. X and Y PPI, pass/fail against your target, transparent and partially transparent pixel percentages, and the bounds of visible content. Download a JSON report if you need to share it.

How PPI is calculated

Effective PPI = image pixels ÷ print size in inches, worked out separately for width and height. For example, an image of 3000 × 3600 pixels printed at 10 × 12 inches is exactly 300 PPI on both axes. Printed at 20 × 24 inches, the same file is only 150 PPI. Centimeter sizes are converted using 2.54 cm per inch. If the two axes differ, the artwork will be stretched unless it is cropped, so match the aspect ratio of the print.

Common print sizes at 300 PPI

These figures are simply size × 300. Add bleed if needed: with 0.125 in on every edge, an 8.5 × 11 in page becomes 8.75 × 11.25 in, or 2625 × 3375 pixels at 300 PPI. Bleed values such as 0.125 in or 3 mm are common but not universal, so use the number from your printer.

What to do if the PPI is too low

Enlarging an image in software adds pixels but not real detail, so the result can still look soft. Better options are to print smaller, find the original high-resolution file, re-export from the design software at a larger size, or recreate logos and text as vector artwork. For posters viewed from several feet away, a lower PPI is often acceptable — ask your printer.

Transparency and margins

Transparent areas print as the paper color, which may not be what you expect, and some print services require artwork without transparency. Large transparent margins mean the visible design is smaller than the canvas, so it may print smaller than planned. Trim or extend the artwork in your editor before ordering.

Preparing images for an online shop instead? Use the bulk product image resizer. Need to share a video proof with a client? Compress it for email.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between DPI and PPI?

PPI (pixels per inch) describes how many image pixels cover one inch of the printed page. DPI (dots per inch) strictly describes the printer's ink dots. People often say DPI when they mean image PPI; this tool calculates PPI from your image's pixels and the print size.

What resolution do I need for printing?

About 300 PPI at the final print size is a common target for close-viewed print such as flyers, cards and photos. Large posters viewed from a distance can use less. Always follow your printer's specification.

Why does my image say 72 DPI?

The DPI value stored in a file is only a label. What matters is the number of pixels compared to the physical size. A 3000 × 3600 pixel image printed at 10 × 12 inches is 300 PPI regardless of the stored value.

Does it check bleed?

It reports transparent margins and the image bounds, and you can include bleed in the print size you enter (for example add 0.125 in or 3 mm per edge if your printer asks for it). It does not verify a printer's full acceptance rules.

Can I check PDF files?

Not currently. Export or rasterize the artwork to PNG or JPEG first.

Are my files uploaded?

No. Images are decoded and analysed in your browser.

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