Standard Poster Size

Posters are available in several standard sizes; each one has specific popular application. Popular applications for standard-sized posters include announcement of events, company or school circulars, promotion of movies or concerts, and outdoor advertisements. Standard poster sizes are represented in the image below:

Disclaimer: Some images on this page are not owned by UPrinting and are used solely as design examples. Please click on the images to see their original sources.

Applications of Different Standard Poster Sizes

Knowing what size of poster to use for a specific need can help you get more suitable prints. Here are simple tips on what size to use and when or where best to use it:

8.5" x 11"

Also known as poster flyers, you can use these prints for announcements or advertisements in areas with limited spaces. School or office circulars are usually printed in this size. They are commonly placed in comfort rooms, on information desks, street posts, and bulletin boards.

11" x 17"

Just slightly bigger than the 8.5" x 11" prints, posters in this size are also used for advertisements or announcements that will be placed in areas with restricted space. Phone booths, community boards and street posts are where you can commonly find them. You can use these if you need to include information or images that the 8.5" x 11" poster cannot handle. Advertising home-based businesses like lemonade stands, garage sales, or selling of baked goodies are among the ways to use an 11" x 17" poster.

18" x 24" and 19" x 27"

If you have a favorite photo that you want to turn into a poster for your room, these two sizes are the best choices. These poster sizes are commonly used for printing photos of celebrities such as sports icons, and music bands or artists. These are also common in clinics and shops.

24" x 36" and 27" x 39"

Considered as the standard large sizes for posters, 24" x 36" and 27x39” are best for outdoor advertising. These are commonly used by marketers to promote their products or services. They are usually placed in high traffic areas such as theaters, cafeterias, and book shops. These posters are usually designed to attract attention using large text and eye-catching graphics. Trade shows and exhibits are also common places for posters in these sizes.

27" x 40"

This is the standard size for movie posters. These are commonly used to announce or advertise an upcoming film. Posters in this size are usually placed in areas that people frequent such as bus stops, phone booths, malls, and theaters.

We also print posters in custom sizes.This is just a guide to help you understand what popular sizes are available and what they're commonly used for. Explore our site to learn more about printing posters online.