In a time where much of what we see is presented in digital formats,posterscontinue to be an effective and high-impact way to widely share information. Designers, advertisers, educators, and event organizers rely on posters to convey messages clearly, capture attention, and create visual engagement.
Choosing the right size depends on the audience, viewing distance, and display location. For example, US 27×40-inch posters dominate cinema and outdoor advertising, while ISO A1 posters (594×841 millimeters) serve exhibitions, classrooms, and international print standards. Proper understanding of these dimensions ensures effective communication, optimal printing, and professional design.
In this guide, you will learn about standard poster sizes in both US and international dimensions, their practical uses, and tips for selecting the ideal format for your project.
Key Takeaways
- Posters remain a powerful medium for communication, capturing attention and delivering messages effectively in both digital and physical spaces.
- The most commonly used poster sizes in the US are 11″x17″ for small displays, 18″x24″ and 24″x36″ for medium to large formats, and 27″x40″ for movie or high-traffic outdoor posters.
- Choosing the right size, material, resolution, and custom dimensions ensures professional design, clear readability, and maximum impact for indoor and outdoor displays.
What are the common poster sizes in the USA?
The most common poster sizes in the US are 11×17 inches for small posters, 18×24 and 24×36 inches for medium to large posters, and 27×40 inches for cinema and outdoor posters.
8.5" x 11" (Letter Posters)
- Dimensions:216 x 279 mm
- Pixels (300 PPI):2550 x 3300
- Closest International Size:A4 (210 x 297 mm)
Letter posters provide a compact display for schedules, small announcements, and informational content. Ideal for office walls, community boards, and reception areas, this size ensures close-range readability. Use bold headings, minimal text, and simple graphics for clear communication.
11" x 17" (Bulletin Posters)
12" x 18" (Mini Posters)
Read more:Postcard Sizes and Dimension Guide
16" x 20" (Photo Posters)
18" x 24" (Medium Posters)
- Dimensions:457 x 610 mm
- Pixels (300 PPI):5400 x 7200
- Closest International Size:B2 (500 x 707 mm)
Medium posters combine visibility with flexibility, suitable for concerts, public announcements, and marketing campaigns. They accommodate large images and short text blocks, making them perfect for indoor and semi-outdoor placements.
Read more:17 Must-Have Print + Digital Marketing Materials for Small Businesses
19" x 27" (Custom Medium Posters)
20" x 30" (Advertising Posters)
22" x 28" (Display Posters)
- Dimensions:559 x 711 mm
- Pixels (300 PPI):6600 x 8400
- Closest International Size:B1 (500 x 707 mm)
Display posters of this dimension work well formenus,promotional signage, or educational content. Their medium-large layout makes information legible from moderate distances while allowing space for visuals.
22" x 34" (Retail Posters)
- Dimensions:559 x 864 mm
- Pixels (300 PPI):6600 x 10200
- Closest International Size:B1+ (500 x 1000 mm)
Retail posters at 22″x34″ capture attention with high-impact visuals and marketing messages. Commonly used for in-store promotions, pop culture displays, and event advertising. Emphasize graphics and concise text for maximum effectiveness.
24" x 36" (Large Posters)
- Dimensions:610 x 914 mm
- Pixels (300 PPI):7200 x 10800
- Closest International Size:A1 (594 x 841 mm)
Large posters dominate visual space fortrade shows, outdoor advertising, and gallery displays. They allow for detailed imagery, infographics, and bold messaging. Perfect for high-traffic areas and marketing campaigns.
27" x 40" (Movie Posters)
- Dimensions:686 x 1016 mm
- Pixels (300 PPI):8100 x 12000
- Closest International Size:B1 (707 x 1000 mm)
Movie posters are iconic for theaters, malls, and promotional campaigns. Their size balances readability and visual impact for audiences passing by from a distance. Text should be large, with a strong focus on graphics.
40" x 60" (Bus Stop Posters)
- Dimensions:1016 x 1524 mm
- Pixels (300 PPI):12000 x 18000
- Closest International Size:B0 (1000 x 1414 mm)
Bus stop posters demand attention in outdoor environments, transit stations, and high-footfall areas. Their large dimensions ensure visibility from afar. Use high-contrast graphics and bold typography for maximum reach.
46" x 67" (Billboard Posters)
- Dimensions:1168 x 1702 mm
- Pixels (300 PPI):13800 x 20100
- Closest International Size:Oversized B0
Billboards are used for mass advertising campaigns and street marketing. Their enormous display area allows for multiple visual elements, large typography, and impactful messaging. Essential for attention-grabbing promotions.
Read more:Best Postcard Fonts That Make Your Design Stand Out
48" x 36" (Academic Posters)
- Dimensions:1219 x 914 mm
- Pixels (300 PPI):14400 x 10800
- Closest International Size:Custom Academic Size
Academic posters convey research, data, and educational findings. Their layout supports charts, graphs, and descriptive text. Universities, conferences, and symposiums use this size to present information in an organized and readable format.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Poster Sizes
1. Purpose and Placement
The poster’s purpose and location determine its ideal size. Outdoor posters at bus stops or transit shelters need large formats like 40″x60″ or 46″x67″ for visibility, while bulletin boards or office walls work best with smaller sizes like 8.5″x11″ or 11″x17″. Consider whether viewers will see it up close or from a distance.
2. Content Volume and Visuals
Posters with dense text or images benefit from larger sizes like 24″x36″ or 27″x40″ for legibility and proper spacing. Simple announcements or event flyers perform well in compact formats like 8.5″x11″ or 12″x18″.
3. Printing Material and Finish
Outdoor posters require durable materials, UV-coated inks, lamination, or foam board mounting. Indoor posters can use gloss, matte, or satin paper, focusing on color accuracy and visual quality.
4. Resolution, Color, and Typography
Design posters at300 DPIand inCMYK color mode. Outline fonts to prevent substitutions and maintain consistency. Include proper bleed and margins for a professional finish.
5. Custom Sizes
Custom poster dimensions allow flexibility for unique spaces or creative designs, from panoramic artwork to large-scale event branding. Printers can produce widths up to 52 inches and variable lengths to suit your project.
Conclusion
Posters remain a powerful medium for communication, bridging the gap between digital and physical engagement. Selecting the right poster size ensures your message reaches the intended audience effectively, whether it’s a compact 8.5″x11″ letter poster for close-range announcements or a striking 46″x67″ billboard for outdoor visibility.
Consider the poster’s purpose, viewing distance, content complexity, and display environment to make informed design and printing decisions.
From academic research presentations to cinematic promotions, understanding US and international poster dimensions allows designers, marketers, and event organizers to create visually compelling, high-impact displays that capture attention and convey information clearly.
