What Are the Most Commonly Used Poster Sizes?

'A' Series Poster Sizes (ISO 216)

Most poster sizes commonly used are from the A series paper sizes, defined by the ISO 216 standard. The poster sizes are A4, A3, A2, A1 and A0. We begin from A4, but the A series also has smaller sizes — A5 and A6 (the normal size for postcards). A4 is the size of normal office printing paper, measuring 21cm × 29.7cm. You will find that each subsequent size is twice the size of the previous one: A3 is twice A4, A2 is twice A3, and so on.

'B' Series Poster Sizes

There is also the B series paper sizes. It is not as commonly used as the A series, but you will find these poster sizes used for IKEA poster frames and more.

Large-Format & US Poster Sizes

Beyond ISO sizes, several inch-based poster sizes are common for retail, cinema and exhibition use:

Which Poster Size Should You Choose?

• A4 / A3: Best for indoor notices, menus and shop counters where readers are close.
• A2: The all-rounder for retail promotions and event signage — readable from a few metres away.
• A1: Ideal for shopfronts, exhibitions and roadshows where you need impact at a distance.
• A0 / large-format: For backdrops, large display walls and high-traffic areas.

Not sure? As a rule of thumb, the further away your audience stands, the larger the poster size you need.

Custom & Irregular Poster Sizes

These are the most common sizes of posters that designers and clients usually stick to, but frankly, there is no restriction or limitation to the size or shape of poster you can create. We have had experience printing many different custom sizes and shapes. For posters with a custom shape, diecut to an irregular shape, we can do them too.

You might also find this useful: How Do I Prepare a Poster for Printing?

Posters as Lifesize Standees

Posters can also be made into lifesize standees, which can be propped up with an aluminium easel attached to the back. This is also commonly used, and we have made a few for customers. Most memorable are the ones made for wedding receptions, where the wedding couple are printed out as a poster made into a lifesize standee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common poster size?

For events and retail in Singapore, A2 (42 × 59.4 cm) and A1 (59.4 × 84.1 cm) are among the most popular, while A3 is widely used for indoor notices.

What size is an A0 poster?

An A0 poster is 841 × 1189 mm (84.1 × 118.9 cm, or 33.1 × 46.8 in) — the largest standard A-series size.

What is the difference between A-series and B-series sizes?

Both follow the ISO 216 standard, but B-series sizes sit between the A-series sizes and are slightly larger. The A series is more common for everyday posters; the B series is often used for poster frames such as IKEA frames.

Can I print a custom poster size?

Yes. While the A and B series cover most needs, posters can be printed in custom sizes and even diecut to irregular shapes.

For more information on printing posters, please refer to our Poster Printing & Frames collection.

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