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Image Size for Large Prints

Large prints need large files. Here is exactly how many pixels you need for common large-format print sizes, and where the viewing-distance rule lets you drop to 150 DPI.

Chris Terry
By Chris Terry, Founder & Editor
Updated June 17, 2026

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For a sharp 16x20 print at 300 DPI, you need 4,800 x 6,000 pixels (about 28.8 megapixels). For a 24x36 print at 300 DPI, you need 7,200 x 10,800 pixels. If the print will be viewed from 3 or more feet away (posters, trade show graphics), 150 DPI is often sufficient, cutting the pixel requirement by 75%.

Large-format pixel requirements

Print sizeAt 300 DPIAt 150 DPI
11 x 14 in3,300 x 4,200 px1,650 x 2,100 px
16 x 20 in4,800 x 6,000 px2,400 x 3,000 px
20 x 24 in6,000 x 7,200 px3,000 x 3,600 px
24 x 36 in7,200 x 10,800 px3,600 x 5,400 px

What is the best image size for large prints?

As large as possible. Start with the highest resolution your camera or source file provides. Do not upscale images in software to meet a DPI target; artificial upscaling adds pixels but not real detail, and the print will still look soft.

Is 24x36 a large format print?

Yes. 24x36 inches is considered large format (also called poster size). At 300 DPI it requires a very high-resolution source. At 150 DPI (typical for viewing distance of 3+ feet), the requirement is more achievable at about 3,600 x 5,400 pixels (about 19 megapixels).

What resolution is needed for 16x20?

At 300 DPI: 4,800 x 6,000 pixels (about 28.8 MP). At 240 DPI (a common printer sweet spot): 3,840 x 4,800 px (about 18.4 MP). Most modern DSLRs and high-end smartphones can meet the 240 DPI requirement. Use the Print Size Calculator to find the maximum sharp print size from your specific image, or see what resolution you need for printing for all standard sizes.

JPEG vs PNG for large prints

PNG uses lossless compression, so it retains every pixel without quality loss. JPEG uses lossy compression that can introduce artifacts, especially at high print sizes where artifacts become visible. For large print files, save as TIFF or high-quality (low-compression) JPEG to minimize quality loss.

Try the Print Size Calculator

Enter your image pixel dimensions and target DPI to see the largest sharp print you can make, instantly.

Open the Print Size Calculator →

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FAQs

What is the best image size for large prints?

Use the largest pixel dimensions available from your source. For a 16x20 at 300 DPI you need 4,800 x 6,000 pixels; at 150 DPI for a poster viewed from a distance, 2,400 x 3,000 pixels is enough. Never artificially upscale to meet a DPI target.

Is 24x36 a large format print?

Yes. 24x36 inches is large format / poster size. At 300 DPI it requires about 77 megapixels, which exceeds most cameras. At 150 DPI for viewing from several feet away, the requirement drops to about 19 megapixels, which is achievable with many modern cameras.

Is JPEG or PNG better for large prints?

PNG is lossless and preferred for preserving every pixel, but JPEG saved at high quality (minimal compression) is widely accepted and produces smaller files. TIFF is the archival standard if file size is not a concern. Avoid heavily compressed JPEG for large prints.

What resolution is needed for 16x20?

At 300 DPI: 4,800 x 6,000 pixels (28.8 megapixels). At 240 DPI: 3,840 x 4,800 pixels (18.4 megapixels). At 150 DPI for a poster viewed at a distance: 2,400 x 3,000 pixels (7.2 megapixels).