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DPI Checker

DPI stands for dots per inch. This tool checks image resolution before you send art to print. Enter the finished size, drop your file, and see the DPI of every image, including the ones placed inside PDFs and vector files.

Minimum resolution: 300 DPI for pieces up to 100 sq in. 150 DPI for anything larger than 100 sq in.
Drop artwork here or click to chooseJPG, PNG, TIFF, PSD, WebP, GIF, PDF, AI (PDF-compatible), SVG

DPI Checker FAQ

What DPI is needed for printing?

Anything you hold and read 1 to 2 feet from your face needs at least 300 DPI to look sharp to the human eye. Signs and banners viewed from 5, 10 or 20+ feet don't need as much, because at that distance you don't see the jagged pixels. 150 DPI is typically recommended for anything larger than a letter-size sheet viewed from a distance. This checker uses 300 DPI up to 100 sq in and 150 DPI above that.

Why does my artwork look sharp on screen but print blurry?

A screen shows your image at its own pixel size and smooths it when you zoom in, so a small image still looks clean. Print stretches every pixel to fill the finished size: each square pixel of a low-resolution image is big enough to see at reading distance. Ink on paper has no smoothing to hide behind. Imperfections don't blend. They look jagged.

How do I check the DPI of an image?

Enter the finished size and drop the file above. Print DPI is pixel width ÷ printed width in inches: 3,600 px printed 12" wide is 300 DPI, and printed 36" wide it's 100 DPI. The DPI saved in the file's settings doesn't matter. Only the pixel count and finished size do.

How do I check the DPI of a PDF or vector file?

Drop the PDF, SVG or PDF-compatible AI file above. Vector shapes and text print sharp at any size, so the checker finds each placed photo or image, checks its DPI at your finished size, and boxes any that fall short in red.

What file should I send my printer?

If you know the DPI of all your artwork is right, you can send a flattened file that isn't editable, such as .png or .jpg. If you want your printer to be able to make adjustments, it's best to send the program file used to create the artwork:

Canva is cloud-based, so share a link that lets your printer make a copy and adjust it for the best output.

Are my files uploaded?

No. Files are read in your own browser and never leave your computer.