Pixels, PPI and printer DPI
The image calculation uses real raster pixels and your physical print size. Image PPI is not printer DPI. Embedded DPI or PPI metadata can describe an intended scale, but it does not add image detail or prove print readiness.
Fit, fill and stretch
Fit preserves every pixel and can leave margins. Fill preserves proportions and calculates the crop. Stretch independently scales width and height, so it is strongly discouraged and never presented as print-ready.
Professional review remains essential
Confirm the print service requirements, crop and margins, intended viewing distance, colour management, paper, transparency treatment and a proof where the outcome matters.
Private by design
The selected image, its filename, dimensions, metadata, hash, calculations and reports remain in browser memory only. No file or report content is sent to MicroIntent.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between DPI and PPI?
Image PPI describes image pixels per printed inch. Printer DPI describes printer dot output. Many people say DPI checker for an image tool, but effective image print resolution is generally PPI.
Does changing DPI metadata improve image quality?
No. Changing embedded resolution metadata does not create pixels or captured detail. Effective PPI is calculated from real pixel dimensions and your chosen print size.
How many pixels are needed for a 300 PPI print?
Multiply each physical dimension in inches by 300 and round up. The dashboard calculates both dimensions for the selected print size.
What size can my image print at 300 PPI?
Divide the pixel width and height by 300. The maximum print-size matrix also shows 240, 200 and 150 PPI guidance.
Is 300 PPI always required?
No. It is a common close-view target, not a universal law. Viewing distance, print process, paper and image content affect an appropriate requirement.
Can a 150 PPI image still print well?
It can be acceptable for larger or more distant viewing in some workflows. Confirm the printer or service requirement and review a proof where important.
Why does print size change when PPI changes?
The same fixed number of pixels covers more or fewer physical inches as the chosen pixels-per-inch target changes.
What does effective PPI mean?
It is actual pixel width divided by print width in inches and actual pixel height divided by print height in inches.
What happens when the image and paper ratios differ?
Fit preserves the whole image and leaves margins. Fill preserves the ratio but crops. Stretch changes proportions and is strongly discouraged.
What is the difference between fit and fill?
Fit shows all image pixels with possible blank paper areas. Fill covers the print area with possible crop. Both retain proportions.
Does the tool upload my image?
No. Inspection, metadata parsing, hashing, previews and exports run locally in your browser. MicroIntent does not upload or store the file.
Can the tool guarantee print quality?
No. It provides deterministic pixel and placement evidence, not a quality guarantee, printer certification or commercial acceptance decision.
Can upscaling make an image truly higher resolution?
Upscaling can add pixels computationally, but it cannot restore original captured detail that was never present.
Why might EXIF and JFIF resolution values conflict?
JPEG can carry multiple metadata blocks written by different software. The tool reports a conflict rather than choosing one as proof of readiness.
What if my image has no DPI metadata?
The tool still calculates effective PPI from its actual pixel dimensions and your intended physical print size.
Does printer DPI affect the calculated image size?
No. Printer DPI is separate from image PPI. Confirm the printer or service workflow independently.
How do I prepare an image for A4 printing?
Select A4, choose a target PPI appropriate for the viewing context, review fit or fill placement, then confirm the service requirements and request a proof if important.
Why are centimetres and inches producing slightly rounded values?
The tool uses 25.4 millimetres per inch internally, then displays sensible rounded values.
Back to Image Tools · Reduce file size with Image Target Size & Quality Optimizer after reviewing print readiness.