A Guide to Standard Poster Sizes
Posters come in a variety of sizes and if you are like most people, you might be wondering that the standard poster sizes are. Truth is, poster sizes vary depending on the type and medium, including for movie posters, advertisements and band flyers, used for both commercial and personal advertisements as well as large format posters — but all these various sizes can be hard to keep track of.
Although there are plenty of different sizes a poster can be, there are really four sizes that are the most common either for purchase or poster printing yourself if you have access to a quality printer.
These Are the Most Common Standard Poster Sizes
The most common poster size in inches in the United States include 11x17 inches for small posters, 18x24 inches and 24x36 inches for medium to large posters, and 27x40 inches for movie posters.
If you’re planning on choosing posters for a collection or simply wish to learn more information about the different types of posters before you pick a size, check out our list to help you choose whether you're purchasing or starting your next poster printing project.
Poster Sizes in Inches vs Centimeters
| US Sizes | Sizes in CM |
|---|---|
| 11 x 17in | 27.94 x 43.18cm |
| 13 x 19in | 33.02 x 48.26cm |
| 16 x 24in | 40.64 x 60.96cm |
| 18 x 24in | 45.72 x 60.96cm |
| 20 x 24in | 50.8 x 60.96cm |
| 24 x 36in | 60.96 x 91.44cm |
| 27 x 40in | 68.58 x 101.6cm |
| 27 x 41in | 68.58 x 104.14cm |
Small Poster Size
11" x 17"
Standard paper sizes in America are letter (8.5x11 sheet), legal (8.5x14 sheet), and tabloid and ledger (11x17 or 17x11 sheet, based on the orientation). While letter and legal are simply paper sizes used primarily for office and home use — not for display — tabloid and ledger can be used as both assuming proper paper weight is used.
The 11 x 17 posters are the most popular small poster size. These work great in theatres as poster giveaways for movie promotions, as well as for commercial, like small window ads and personal advertisements in public buildings or event venues, on lampposts and bulletin boards, and as handouts where the image is front and center. The relatively small size makes these smaller posters very portable and easy to print in bulk by the thousands to get a message out or promote an event.
Medium Poster Size
18" x 24"
Medium poster sizes include 13x19 and 16x24, but 18x24 is the most popular medium poster size. Used at event venues and on bulletin boards for a more impactful advertisement than its smaller counterpart, this poster format size is eye-catching yet understated — and a perfect size for hanging home decor and filling in empty wall space in your living room .
Large Poster Size
24" x 36"
The two common large poster sizes — 20x24 and 24x36 — are used to make a statement. These large format posters are commonly found in retail stores and malls with high traffic areas as well as in outdoor advertising, as they are large enough to catch the eye of passersby on foot, in a car or on public transport. The 24x36 poster is the most popular large poster size, 2:3 aspect ration, often found at trade shows, exhibits or malls, and its impressive dimensions make it a great conversation piece in your home. There are definitely large poster dimensions like the ones you would find at a bus stop, billboard posters or subway poster but they are not as common especially when printing posters.
Standard Movie Poster Size
Not all film posters are made the same, and there are several different movie poster sizes depending on where and when they were used. The film industry has standardized the size of poster — in fact, you can date a movie poster by its size — so framing movie posters is simply a matter of matching the size it is.
27" x 40"
The 27x40 inches (686x1016 mm) poster is the standard size for movie posters. Also called a one-sheet, this recognizable poster is used inside cinemas to promote new films. Prior to the 1980s, this size was actually slightly larger — 27x41 — so those collecting vintage posters should measure carefully to avoid a too-small frame. Frame Destination carries poster frames for a variety of movie poster dimensions, allowing you to display both modern and vintage printed posters. Browse here for size 27x40.
Concert and Band Posters
For some, it’s not the movie posters they are after — it’s the music events and festivals. Posters for bands, concert posters and gig flyers are popular collectibles among music enthusiasts. Unlike the film industry, however, these sizes are not standardized no matter which printing company or store is used.
A handbill, the smallest band poster, is often 8.5x10 or 8.5x5. Flyers and small posters that are used as advertisements outside the venue are generally 8.5x11. The most sought-after band poster is the one on display at the venue itself; these large concert posters range from 11x17 to 24x36. We have a wide selection of frames for both 11x17 posters and 24x36 posters precision cut in different materials that work great with any design.
Other Common Poster Dimensions
Less common poster dimensions but still a standard size, 11.75x36 posters are used for panoramic prints. These slender posters are often simple art prints, photos or special advertisements; in the home, they make excellent works of art. 8.5 x 11 letter sized posters are even less common. Other mentions include 22 x 28 and large format 40 x 60. It costs more as one can image to print these larger ones as they often require special rolls and sheets with thicker stock.
Lucky for collectors, many of these standard poster sizes have remained the same for years — and will most likely continue to stay in use. To make sure that your poster collection stays pristine, use the right right poster size dimensions and framing supplies to help protect it for years to come. Luckily, if you want to print your own there are a large number of poster printing services that offer templates as well.
(For additional tips and framing standard or custom sizes, check out our guide on How to Frame a Poster)
What are the most common standard poster sizes?
The most common standard poster sizes are 18x24, 24x36, and 27x40 inches. These sizes are popular because they are easy to find frames for, and they are large enough to make an impact without being too expensive.
What are the common poster formats?
Common poster formats include standard sizes like A4 (8.3 x 11.7 inches), A3 (11.7 x 16.5 inches), and A2 (16.5 x 23.4 inches). Larger formats such as A1 (23.4 x 33.1 inches) and A0 (33.1 x 46.8 inches) are also common for more impactful displays, while custom sizes can be used for specific needs.
What is the typical size for a movie poster?
The typical size for a movie poster is 27x40 inches. This size is known as a one-sheet and is the most common size for movie theaters to display.
What are some popular landscape poster sizes?
Some popular landscape poster sizes include 16x20, 20x24, and 24x36 inches. These sizes are great for displaying panoramic images or landscapes.
What are the standard poster board sizes?
The standard poster board size is 22x28 inches. This size is commonly used for presentations or displays and is easy to find at office supply stores.
What are the dimensions of an 18x24 poster?
An 18x24 poster has dimensions of 18 inches by 24 inches. This size is popular for printing art prints, concert posters, and promotional materials.
Is 16x20 a good size for a poster?
16x20 is a good size for a poster if you are looking for a smaller, more affordable option. This size is great for displaying in a smaller space or for creating a collection of posters.
Written by Mark Rogers
Mark Rogers is the President and Co-Founder of Frame Destination. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Mark has become a leading authority on framing techniques and best practices, and has earned a reputation for his innovative approaches to custom framing and frame services for photographers and artists.
Last updated October 10, 2024