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Check PDF DPI Online

Upload a PDF to check the DPI of every embedded image. See which images are print-ready and which need higher resolution.

No upload to any serverAnalyzes every embedded image

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Know your print quality instantly

See the effective DPI of every embedded image and whether your PDF is ready for professional printing.

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Understanding DPI in PDFs

A common misconception is that PDFs have a DPI setting. They don't. PDF is a vector-based format where text and shapes remain crisp at any zoom level. The DPI question only applies to raster images (photos, screenshots, logos saved as PNG/JPEG) that are placed inside the PDF.

When an image is embedded in a PDF, it has a native pixel size (e.g. 2400 × 1600 px) and a display size on the page (e.g. 8 × 5.33 inches). The ratio between these two numbers is the effective DPI — in this example, 300 DPI. If that same image were stretched to fill a poster-size page, its effective DPI would drop and print quality would suffer.

This tool parses every page of your PDF, finds each embedded raster image, and calculates the effective DPI by comparing the image's native pixel dimensions to its rendered size on the page. You'll see:

  • The effective DPI and a print quality rating for each image
  • Native pixel dimensions vs. display size on the page
  • An overall verdict based on the lowest-quality image in your PDF

Your PDF is parsed entirely in the browser using JavaScript. Nothing is uploaded or stored.

DPI Quality Reference

DPI RangeQualityBest for
< 72 DPIPoorNot suitable for print
72 – 149 DPILowScreen display, web only
150 – 299 DPIMediumAcceptable for most printing, large-format posters
300 – 599 DPIGoodProfessional printing standard
600+ DPIExcellentHigh-end photo printing, fine art

Frequently Asked Questions

Do PDFs have a DPI?

PDFs themselves don't have a DPI — they are resolution-independent containers. However, raster images embedded inside a PDF do have an effective DPI based on their pixel dimensions and how large they are rendered on the page. This tool extracts each embedded image and calculates its effective DPI.

How does this tool check PDF DPI?

The tool parses your PDF entirely in the browser, finds every embedded raster image, reads its native pixel dimensions, and compares them to the rendered size on the page. The ratio gives the effective DPI. Vector graphics and text are resolution-independent and always print sharply.

What DPI do I need for professional printing?

For professional printing (brochures, photos, business cards), use 300 DPI. For large-format prints (posters, banners), 150 DPI is often sufficient. For screen or web use, 72-96 DPI is standard.

What does 'No raster images found' mean?

Your PDF may contain only vector graphics (shapes, paths) and text, which are resolution-independent and always print at the highest quality. DPI only applies to raster images (photos, screenshots, bitmaps) embedded in the PDF.

Is my PDF uploaded to a server?

No. All analysis happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your PDF never leaves your device — nothing is uploaded or stored anywhere.

Can I improve the DPI of images in my PDF?

You cannot increase the actual resolution of an embedded image after the fact. To improve DPI, you need to replace the low-resolution image with a higher-resolution source file and regenerate the PDF.

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