If you’re promoting your business or an event around town, directing customers through your space or spreading the word about something special – chances are you’ve used a poster to get the message across. Posters are a classic part of a small businesses marketing toolkit and let you turn any wall, window or blank space into an opportunity. And, when designed well, a visually striking poster can make all the difference. Size is a huge part of poster design and not all are created equal; so, we’re here to break down all the different poster dimensions and poster sizes out there to help you find the best fit for your business.
What is the standard poster size?
Like we mentioned earlier, posters come in lots of different sizes. But the average poster size printed in Australia is between A0 and A3, with the A1 poster size being the most common thanks to its larger dimensions – perfect for getting noticed in busy spaces. A2 poster sizes and A3 poster sizes are a little smaller, so are more frequently used for in store promotions.
Check out our table below for a full breakdown of standard poster sizes in cm and inches:
| Size | Poster size in mm | Poster size in cm | Poster size in inches |
| A0 | 841 x 1189 mm | 84.1 x 118.9 cm | 33.1 x 46.8 inches |
| A1 | 594 x 841 mm | 59.4 x 84.1 cm | 23.4 x 33.1 inches |
| A2 | 420 x 594 mm | 42 x 59.4 cm | 16.5 x 23.4 inches |
| A3 | 297 x 420 mm | 29.7 x 42 cm | 11.7 x 16.5 inches |
| A4 | 210 x 297 mm | 21 x 29.7 cm | 8.3 x 11.7 inches |
| A5 | 148.5 x 210 mm | 14.85 x 210 cm | 5.8 x 8.3 inches |
| A6 | 105 x 148.5 mm | 10.5 x 14.85 cm | 4.1 x 5.8 inches |
| A7 | 74 x 105 mm | 7.4 x 10.5 cm | 2.9 x 4.1 inches |
| A8 | 52 x 74 mm | 5.2 x 7.4 cm | 2.0 x 2.9 inches |
| A9 | 37 x 52 mm | 3.7 x 5.2 cm | 1.5 x 2.0 inches |
| A10 | 26 x 37 mm | 2.6 x 3.7 cm | 1.0 x 1.5 inches |
Poster sizes and dimensions: FAQs
What size is an academic poster in Australia?
This depends on your field and the content of your poster, but most academic posters are between A0-A3 in size. If you need to convey a lot of information, it’s recommended to size up, but remember, some universities and academic institutions have specific guidelines on poster size.
What is a standard movie poster size?
Movie poster sizes have changed over time, but historically, the standard movie poster size in Australia was about 33.0 x 76.2 cm, also known as a Daybill Poster. Made famous in pre-war times, these are the classic, vintage posters you might see in antique or retro stores or cinemas.
Today, you’re more likely to see a standard movie poster size of 68 x 100 cm and 101.6 x 205.7 cm, known respectively as One Sheet and Three Sheet posters.
Is A3 bigger than A4?
Yes, A3 poster size is 297 x 420 mm and A4 poster size is 210 x 297 mm. A4 posters are ideal for small spaces, like doors, hallways or interior spaces.
Design guidelines
We’ve got thousands of templates you can pick from to create your poster – thanks to our amazing designers. But you can upload your own design, too; it’s as simple as selecting an image or file on your computer! When you do upload your own design, it’s important to keep some guidelines in mind to guarantee the best print possible.
Bleed Area: 598 x 424 mm
If you’ve got a background colour or pattern, make sure it extends a bit beyond the actual size of the poster. That way, you’ll never end up with white borders, even if the cards are cut slightly off centre.
Trim Size: 594 x 420 mm
Just like the name says, this is where we cut your poster. We do our absolute best to make sure your poster is centred and uniform, but be sure to check the safe printing area when completing your design.
Safe Printing Area: 590 x 416 mm
Make sure you have any important text or design elements within this area, which isn’t much smaller than the actual size of the poster. To guarantee nothing gets cut off, keep everything inside this box.
Note: These measurements are for our standard poster size (A2). Our other options, have similar bleed and safe printing areas in relation to their actual size. You can always check the details on our poster product page.
Which poster size is best for me?
Now that you know almost everything about poster size, it’s time to find the best size for your needs and business.
A4 – These posters are as big as a classic sheet of paper. While they’re smaller compared to other posters, they’re a great option for street marketing, offices or in small stores and spaces.
A3 – If you need a little more room for your content, A3 can get your message across, but without taking up too much space. Think slightly larger indoor spaces, like bars and eateries.
A2 – Promoting an event? A2 posters are big enough to get your gig seen. There’s enough room for important info like locations and prices and visually striking imagery and artwork.
A1 & A0 – Larger poster designs can make a real impact in big or crowded spaces and work to super-size your message. With lots of space for information and eye-catching visuals, these sizes are great for exhibitions, outdoor areas, events and concerts.
