A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 — poster sizes look like a code, and getting the wrong one means a poster too small to notice or too big for the space. The good news: the A-series is a simple, logical system, and once you understand it, choosing a poster size is easy. This guide explains the A-series, the common poster sizes, and how to pick the right one. It is part of our complete posters & mounting guide.
The A-series, explained
The A-series is the standard paper-size system, and it has one neat rule: each size is half the one above. Fold an A3 in half and you get two A4s; an A2 is two A3s, and so on. They all share the same proportions, so a design scales between them cleanly.
| Size | Approx dimensions | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| A4 | 21 × 29.7 cm | Notices, table signs |
| A3 | 29.7 × 42 cm | Small posters, menus |
| A2 | 42 × 59.4 cm | Shop posters |
| A1 | 59.4 × 84.1 cm | Large display posters |
| A0 | 84.1 × 118.9 cm | Big display, exhibitions |
A1 and A2 are the workhorses for shop and event posters; A3 suits menus and smaller notices; A0 is for big, attention-grabbing display.
Choose by viewing distance
The most important factor in choosing a poster size is how far away people view it. A poster read up close (a menu, a notice by a door) can be A4 or A3; a poster meant to be seen from across a room or street needs to be A1 or A0 so the message reads at distance. The same letter-height logic as banners applies: the further the reader, the bigger the poster and the text. A premium poster prints sharp at any of these sizes.
Choose by where it goes
- By a door / on a counter — A4 or A3, read up close.
- Shop window or wall — A2 or A1, seen from across the shop or street.
- Exhibition or big display — A1 or A0 for maximum impact.
- A framed feature — match the size to the frame and the wall.
A fixed poster display frame is sized to its poster, so order the print to the frame. For tougher spots, a synthetic poster holds up better than paper.
Custom and non-standard sizes
You are not limited to A-sizes — posters can be printed to any custom dimension to fit a specific frame, wall or space. If your spot is a non-standard size, order to that exact size rather than forcing an A-size that leaves a gap or overhangs. Just remember bleed and a safe margin (see print-ready file setup).
Frequently asked questions
What are the common poster sizes? The A-series — A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 — where each is half the size of the one above. A1 and A2 are common for shop and event posters; A3 for menus and notices; A0 for big display.
How do I choose a poster size? By viewing distance and location — A4/A3 for up-close notices and menus, A2/A1 for shop windows and walls, A0 for big display seen from afar.
What size is an A1 poster? About 59.4 × 84.1 cm — a large display poster, double the size of A2.
Can I get a custom poster size? Yes — posters print to any custom dimension to fit a specific frame or space; order to the exact size with bleed. See the poster range.
