Image Guide
Change Image DPI Online
DPI (dots per inch) determines how large an image prints physically. A 3000×2000 image at 300 DPI prints at 10×6.67 inches, while the same image at 150 DPI would print at 20×13.33 inches. ConvertBox offers two ways to change DPI — choosing the right one matters.
Two modes: Metadata vs. Resample
Metadata only
Updates the DPI tag in the file header without touching any pixels. The image looks identical on screen. Use this when a print service, submission form, or publishing platform requires a specific DPI value but your image already has enough pixels for the intended print size.
Example: You have a 3000×2000 photo tagged at 72 DPI. A print shop asks for 300 DPI. Metadata mode changes the tag to 300 — the image will now print at 10×6.67 inches instead of 41.67×27.78 inches, but every pixel stays untouched.
Resample
Physically resizes the pixel grid so the image keeps its current physical size (in inches) at the new DPI. This creates or removes actual pixels. Use this when you need more pixels for a given print size (upsampling) or fewer pixels to reduce file size (downsampling).
Example: A 3000px-wide image at 150 DPI prints at 20 inches. Changing to 300 DPI via resample creates a 6000px-wide image that still prints at 20 inches — but with twice the detail.
Using the DPI tool in Image Studio
- Load an image. The DPI panel automatically reads the current DPI value from the file. If no DPI tag is found, it shows "Unknown."
- Enter a target DPI or pick from the presets: 72 (screen), 96 (Windows default), 150 (draft print), 300 (standard print), 600 (high quality).
- Choose Metadata or Resample. If the current format doesn't support DPI metadata, the tool will inform you and default to Resample with PNG output.
- Click Apply DPI. The change is recorded as a new history entry — you can undo if needed.
Common DPI values and when to use them
| DPI | Use case | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 72 | Web, social media | Smallest file, screen display only |
| 150 | Draft print, posters | Acceptable for large-format prints viewed from distance |
| 300 | Standard print | Books, magazines, business cards, photo prints |
| 600 | Fine art, detailed graphics | Maximum detail for close-up viewing |
Batch DPI — dedicated page
Need to change DPI on many images at once? The dedicated DPI Changer page supports batch processing with a paper-size preview showing how your images will fit on common paper sizes (A4, Letter, etc.) at the target DPI. You can also download the composed layout as a single PNG.