How many pixels is 300 DPI?
300 DPI does not describe one fixed number of pixels. It means 300 image pixels are used for each printed inch. A one-inch square needs 300x300 pixels; a 12x12-inch scrapbook page needs 3600x3600 pixels. Width and height determine the total.
| Print size | Pixels at 300 DPI |
|---|---|
| 12 × 12 in | 3600 × 3600 px |
| 8.5 × 11 in (US Letter) | 2550 × 3300 px |
| 21 × 29.7 cm (A4) | 2480 × 3508 px |
| 6 × 6 in | 1800 × 1800 px |
| 4 × 6 in photo | 1200 × 1800 px |
DPI and PPI: why the calculator uses the same number
PPI describes image pixels per printed inch, while DPI technically describes printer dots. Download listings commonly say “300 DPI” when they mean the image is prepared to print at 300 pixels per inch. This calculator uses that familiar wording but calculates image pixels.
Frequently asked questions
Is 3600x3600 pixels always 12x12 inches?
It is 12x12 inches at 300 PPI. The same pixels can print at a different physical size if the print resolution changes.
Does changing metadata to 300 DPI improve an image?
No. Changing the resolution label does not add real image detail. Use the pixel dimensions to judge whether a file contains enough information for the intended print size.
