Guide to Large-Format Poster Sizes

Key Points:

1. Standard large-format poster sizes have various applications, from high-visibility marketing and movie promotions to home decor and public announcements.
2. Using standard sizes offers benefits, including affordable printing and compatibility with standard frames, bulletin boards, and stands.
3. The recommended viewing distance is one of the most critical factors that determines the ideal poster size. As a general rule, the text and images on large posters should be readable and visible from 3 to 10 feet.

The most popular poster sizes for large format printing are 18” × 24”, 24” × 36”, 27” × 40”, and 36” × 48”. These dimensions are widely used across industries, such as retail advertising, trade shows, and event and movie promotions.

The general recommendation is to use standard large-format poster sizes because they are more affordable to print than custom sizes, especially in large volumes. They are also compatible with standard display frames and stands, making them easy and convenient to set up.

Meanwhile, custom-sized posters are best reserved for unique spaces (e.g., narrow walls or unusual window shapes) and for specific creative or branding requirements.

Common Large Poster Sizes

Standard Sizes for Large-Format Posters	Best for
18″ x 24″	Medium-scale promotions, retail displays, event promotions, trade shows, general advertising, and home decor
24″ x 36″	Retail displays, general advertising, and high-traffic areas
27″ x 40″	Official movie posters and large venue promotions
36″ x 48″	Busy streets and public spaces, like bus stops or subways

18″ x 24″

This poster size is widely used for general advertising in retail stores, malls, trade shows, exhibits, and conventions. It’s also a common choice for decorative art prints in home settings.

The optimal viewing distance is 3 to 4 feet, though close inspection is possible at arm’s length.

24″ x 36″

Arguably the most common size for general signage, 24” x 36” posters are often found in retail stores, malls, bus stops, subways, trade shows, and exhibits. Many movie posters also come in this standard size.

This poster size is typically viewed at 4 to 6 feet.

27″ x 40″

Official movie theater posters typically come in this standard size, also known as “insert” or “one-sheet.”

Before the 1980s, the official movie poster size was one inch longer than today’s standard. So, anyone collecting vintage posters may need custom-sized frames for their collection.

The optimal viewing distance for 27” x 40” posters is 5 to 8 feet, making them ideal for large-venue promotions.

36″ x 48″

t As the largest standard poster size, 36” x 48” suits large venues and public places with high foot traffic. Information displays, such as community announcements and awareness campaigns, are often available in this size.

This poster size is typically viewed at 5 to 10 feet, making it a popular choice for trade shows, conferences, and public service announcements.

Large-Format Posters: How to Pick the Right Size

Not sure which size to choose? These key factors will help you find the right fit.

Viewing Distance: It is the maximum distance at which a poster’s message can be easily read and understood. Also, it plays a critical role in the design, specifically the font size and typography selection.

Content and Design Requirements: The amount and type of information will determine the ideal poster size. The general rule is to pick a strong focal point, usually a captivating image or a beautiful typography, and then create a design around it.

Display Space: Measure the area where the poster will be installed to ensure a perfect fit. It can be a wall, a window, or a bulletin board. Also, consider possible visual obstructions, like furniture and shelves, to avoid picking a poster size that’s too big for the space.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Placement: Busy streets and public places with high foot traffic generally need larger posters (than those used indoors) to cut through the visual clutter.

When to Use Custom-Sized Posters

Although using standard poster sizes offers many benefits, custom sizes might be a better option in some situations.

Unique Spaces: Odd window shapes, non-standard frame or stand dimensions, narrow walls, and display areas with unusual ceiling heights may need non-standard poster sizes.

Specific Creative Requirements: When standard dimensions don’t suit your creative vision, you may require custom-sized posters. For example, landscape and panoramic photos often work well for posters in a horizontal format.

Required Features: You may need non-standard posters to suit your existing marketing materials, flow work, or distribution method.

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The right poster size ensures optimal visibility and readability, which are essential for effective marketing, public awareness, or any campaign you want to launch.

NextDayFlyers offers posters with extensive customization options, including various cardstock thickness, finishes, and sizes to ensure they meet your specific requirements for retail displays, event promotions, or artistic projects.