What this calculator does
DPI in this calculator is the effective pixel density used for a print-size decision. Enter both axes because a mismatch can reveal that the physical size and image ratio do not agree.
DPI formula
DPI = pixels ÷ inchesPixels = DPI × inchesWorked examples
3000 pixels across a 10-inch print
The effective horizontal density is exactly 300 DPI.
2400 × 1600 printed at 12 × 8 inches
Both axes equal 200 DPI, so the image and print share the same 3:2 ratio.
Frequently asked questions
Why are horizontal and vertical DPI shown separately?
If the image and physical print have different aspect ratios, each axis produces a different density. That usually means cropping or distortion is required.
Is a higher DPI always better?
Higher density can preserve more detail, but the visible benefit depends on the printer, material, image sharpness, and viewing distance.
Can metadata DPI be different from effective DPI?
Yes. Metadata may store a preferred value, but effective DPI depends on the actual pixel dimensions divided by the chosen print size.
What should I do if the two DPI values differ?
Check the aspect ratios. Crop the image or change the print dimensions rather than stretching one axis.