Standard Poster Sizes

Standard UK poster sizes use the ISO 216 A-series. The most common display formats are A0, A1, A2 and A3. A0 measures 841 x 1189mm, A1 594 x 841mm, A2 420 x 594mm and A3 297 x 420mm. A4 measures 210 x 297mm and is more commonly used for notices and handouts than large promotional posters.

Each A-series size keeps the same aspect ratio. Moving from A0 to A1 halves the sheet area; A1 to A2 halves it again. This makes it easier to resize artwork between standard formats without changing the overall proportions.

The table below gives dimensions in millimetres, centimetres, inches and approximate pixel dimensions at 300 dpi. Pixel figures are a reference for artwork setup, not a substitute for the specification on the individual product page.

Non-standard poster sizes

Not every display uses A-series paper. Poster cases, cinema-style displays and some advertising formats also use imperial dimensions such as 20 x 30, 30 x 40 and 40 x 60 inches, as well as metric formats such as 500 x 700mm and 700 x 1000mm.

These sizes are not part of the ISO A-series, so always check the visible area and graphic specification of the display before supplying artwork.

Which poster size is best for you?

The best poster size depends on viewing distance, available display area, how much information needs to be shown and the frame or stand being used. For promotional displays, use the largest format that comfortably fits the display while keeping the message simple and legible.

A3 posters: compact, close-range displays

A3 measures 297 x 420mm. It works well for menus, price lists, notices, point-of-sale messages and smaller window displays where people will view the poster from relatively close range. See our A3 posters.

A2 posters: retail and window displays

A2 measures 420 x 594mm. It gives substantially more visual impact than A3 without requiring the space of an A1 display, making it useful for retail promotions, event information and window graphics. See our A2 posters.

A1 posters: high-visibility promotions

A1 measures 594 x 841mm and is one of the most useful sizes for promotional posters. It is large enough to be noticed from further away and is commonly used with pavement signs, poster cases and shop-window displays. See our A1 posters.

A0 posters: maximum impact

A0 measures 841 x 1189mm. It is well suited to larger promotional graphics, event displays, poster cases and locations where the message needs to be visible from a greater distance. See our A0 posters.

Poster artwork resolution

The pixel dimensions in the table above show the approximate image size required to reproduce each A-series format at 300 dpi. This is useful when checking whether an image has enough resolution for close-range print.

For larger posters, the appropriate effective resolution can vary depending on the print process and expected viewing distance. Always use the artwork specification on the individual product page rather than simply enlarging a low-resolution file.

Display frames for standard poster sizes

Display Wizard stocks poster frames and poster display systems in a range of standard sizes. For example, our 25mm silver poster snap frame is available in multiple A-series formats.

Remember that the overall paper size and the visible area are not always identical. A frame can cover a small amount around the edge of the poster, so keep important text and logos away from the trim edge and check the display area's dimensions before finalising artwork.

Frequently asked questions

What is the standard poster size in the UK?

There is no single UK poster size. The standard paper system used in the UK is the ISO A-series, and A3, A2, A1 and A0 are all commonly used for posters. The right size depends on the display, available space and viewing distance.

Is 61 x 91cm a standard poster size?

61 x 91cm, roughly 24 x 36 inches, is a common poster format, particularly for art and entertainment prints, but it is not an ISO A-series size. For commercial display products in the UK, A-series formats are often easier to match with standard frames, pavement signs and poster cases.

What size is an A1 poster?

An A1 poster measures 594 x 841mm, 59.4 x 84.1cm or approximately 23.39 x 33.11 inches.

What size is an A2 poster?

An A2 poster measures 420 x 594mm, 42 x 59.4cm or approximately 16.54 x 23.39 inches.

What size is an A3 poster?

An A3 poster measures 297 x 420mm, 29.7 x 42cm or approximately 11.69 x 16.54 inches.

What is the most common paper size?

A4, at 210 x 297mm, is the most familiar office and document size. For promotional posters, larger formats such as A3, A2, A1 and A0 are commonly used because they provide more space and greater visibility.

What size should poster artwork be?

Set the artwork to the final size required by the product and use sufficiently high-resolution images. Check the individual poster or display product's artwork requirements for bleed, safe area and file setup before submitting the design.