Image size refers to the number of pixels in an image, while resolution refers to the number of pixels per inch (dpi or ppi) that determine image quality. Higher resolution means more pixels per inch and results in clearer, less pixelated images. The end use of the image determines the necessary resolution - low resolution is suitable for online use while high resolution is needed for printed materials.

1. The Difference Between Image
Size and Resolution

2. One frequently asked question from our clients is about image
size or should that be image resolution? It can be confusing and
one depends on the other, so we’re going to take a look at why
these two terms often get confused and what they mean.

3. Image size and resolution are how an
image is measured. When you capture a
digital image, via a digital camera, phone
or scanner, it’s measured in pixels.
All About Pixels

4. Pixels are also measured in terms of DPI
(dots per inch) or PPI (pixels per inch) and
it is this measurement that affects
resolution. The more DPI or PPI, the
higher the resolution.

5. A selling point of digital cameras is
the number of pixels it can capture.
A 16 Mega Pixel camera can capture
images that are 4920 pixels wide x
3264 pixels high. Just because you can
take a 16 Megapixel photo doesn’t
mean you need to. This depends on
what you need the image for.

6. You could be saving money too. If you’re
using stock photography, the cost can
vary based on the size and resolution of
image you need.

7. Poster A4 Photo Brochure
or Flyer
Print Ad Social Media Web Design
When it comes to resolution requirements, what really matters is the
end product. What are you using the image for?
What’s the end game?

8. The risk with using an image with
low resolution is that the image will
appear ‘pixelated’ or grainy, blurry
and unfocussed. Digital images that
have a very high resolution take up
a lot of storage space and are slower
to load on websites.

9. The table below is a big help when it comes to checking if you
have the correct relationship between image size and resolution.
Photo Enlargement Chart
2MP
3MP
5MP
7MP
8MP
10MP
12MP
14MP
1,600 x 1,200
2,048 x 1536
2,592 x 1944
3,072 x 2304
3,264 x 2,448
3,648 x 2,736
4,000 x 3,000
4,288 x 3,216
8.0 X 6.0
10.2 X 7.6
12.9 X 9.7
15.3 X 11.5
16.3 X 12.2
18.2 X 13.6
20.0 X 15.0
21.4 X 16.8
5.3 X 4.0
6.8 X 5.1
8.6 X 6.4
10.2 X 7.6
10.8 X 8.1
12.1 X 9.1
13.3 X 10
14.2 X 10.7
Image Size (Pixels) Megapixels
Maximum Print
Size @200 DPI
Maximum Print
Size @300 DPI