Best DPI for Postcards

Postcards need 300 DPI for sharp typography and consumer-grade postal-system tolerance.

Spec sheet

  • DPI: 300 DPI for both sides.
  • Color: CMYK, embedded ICC profile.
  • Bleed: 3 mm (0.125″).
  • Safe area: 5 mm inside trim for graphics, 10 mm clear of address area on the back.

Standard postcard sizes (300 DPI + bleed)

FormatTrimPixels
USPS minimum3.5×5″1125 × 1575
USPS standard4×6″1275 × 1875
Jumbo5×7″1575 × 2175
Oversized6×9″1875 × 2775
A6 European10.5×14.8 cm1311 × 1819

Workflow

  1. Verify pixel count meets the table above.
  2. If short, run the Image Upscaler first.
  3. Convert to CMYK; embed ICC.
  4. Tag the file with DPI Converter at 300.
  5. Verify with the DPI Checker before submission.

Related guides

→ DPI for Greeting Cards→ DPI for Flyers→ DPI for Business Cards→ Bleed (definition)→ Print Size Calculator→ DPI Converter

Related Tools & Guides

Continue with practical tools and supporting tutorials for better image and print outcomes.

DPI Converter DPI Checker Convert to 300 DPI Print Size Calculator Image Compressor DPI for Printing What Is DPI DPI Glossary

Frequently Asked Questions

What DPI is best for postcards?
300 DPI for both sides. Postcards are read at arm’s length, where the human eye still resolves individual ink dots below 300 DPI.
What is the standard postcard size in pixels?
USPS standard 4×6″ postcard at 300 DPI = 1200 × 1800 px (trim) or 1275 × 1875 px (with 3 mm bleed).
What is the smallest USPS postcard size?
3.5 × 5″ (89 × 127 mm) is the USPS minimum. Anything smaller is treated as a letter and pays a different rate.
Do I need bleed on a postcard?
Yes if the design extends to the edge. Use 3 mm (0.125″) bleed and keep important text 5 mm inside the trim line.