Poster Size Guide: How to Choose Between A2, A1, and B2

One of the first decisions you face when ordering a poster is the size. Even with the same design, the difference between A2 and A1 can dramatically affect visual impact and cost per print. Using the ISO A series and B series as a framework, let's look at which size fits which situation.

The Difference Between A Series and B Series

Under the ISO 216 standard, A series sizes start from A0 (841 × 1189 mm) and double each time you step down a number (or halve when you step up). B series sizes fall between adjacent A sizes and are slightly larger. In general, A sizes are common for informational and promotional posters, while B sizes — especially B2 — are the standard for movie and entertainment posters.

Common Size Reference Chart

| Size | Dimensions (mm) | Typical Use | |------|-----------------|-------------| | A2 | 420 × 594 | In-store signage, classroom notices | | A1 | 594 × 841 | Event displays, lobby signage | | B2 | 515 × 728 | Movie and entertainment posters | | B1 | 728 × 1030 | Large-format promotions, indoor advertising |

Choosing the Right Size for Your Display Environment

Close-range display: A2

For viewers reading from 3–6 feet away — such as in-store notices, menus, or classroom announcements — A2 is the most cost-effective choice. It accommodates a good amount of information while keeping body text legible, and print costs are manageable.

Mid-range visibility: A1 or B2

When you need to grab attention from 10–15 feet away — in a lobby or corridor, for example — A1 or B2 is the right call. B2 in particular matches the standard frame size used in movie theaters, so you can drop it straight into an off-the-shelf frame without custom framing.

How Size Affects Print Cost

Print cost does not scale linearly with size. Press shops calculate cost based on how many pieces they can cut from a parent sheet. Moving up just one size can significantly reduce sheet yield, pushing the per-unit price up considerably.

For a fixed budget, two A2 prints can sometimes communicate your message more effectively than a single A1. Weighing display area against sheet yield is the key to cost optimization.

Digital vs. Offset: Where the Break-even Lies

For short runs (up to a few dozen copies), digital printing delivers a lower cost per print. For larger runs (hundreds or more), offset printing becomes more economical at scale. Quantity affects the best printing method just as much as size does.

Poster Size Selection Checklist

• Viewing distance: the farther away, the larger the size needed
• Existing frames: match standard dimensions if you're using pre-made frames
• Amount of content: more text warrants A2 or larger
• Budget: larger sizes mean higher paper and printing costs
• Sheet yield: check how many pieces fit on a parent sheet
• Transport and storage: A1 and larger are best rolled for storage

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is bigger — A1 or B1?

B1 (728 × 1030 mm) is larger than A1 (594 × 841 mm). A useful rule of thumb: a B series size is roughly one step larger than the same-numbered A size.

Why are movie posters printed in B2?

The standard poster frame used in cinemas is sized for B2 (515 × 728 mm). When distributors print to this format, they can ship to any theater in the country knowing the poster will fit without modification.

Can I print non-standard sizes?

Absolutely. Keep in mind that standard sizes minimize paper waste and carry lower per-unit costs. Non-standard sizes generate more trim waste, which can increase the final price.