Source: https://restorebunny.com/tools/photo-scan-dpi-calculator/

# Photo Scan DPI Calculator

Calculate the pixel dimensions, megapixels, file size, and printable size of an old photo scan before you digitize it.

[Restore a Scanned Photo](<https://restorebunny.com/signup/>)[View Pricing](<https://restorebunny.com/pricing/>)

## Try It Now

### Photo Scan DPI Calculator

Enter the physical size of your print and a scan resolution to estimate the resulting pixels, megapixels, and printable size.

Photo width (inches)Photo height (inches)Scan resolution (DPI)

Pixel dimensions**3,600 × 2,400 px**

Image resolution**8.6 megapixels**

Approx. uncompressed RGB**25.9 MB**

Print size at 300 DPI**12 × 8 in**

**Practical default:** use 600 DPI for most old family prints. Use 1200 DPI for wallet-size photographs or when the print contains very fine detail. Choose the scanner's optical resolution rather than an interpolated setting.

## How To Use

- Measure the width and height of the physical photo in inches.
- Enter those dimensions in the calculator.
- Choose 300, 600, 1200, or 2400 DPI based on the source and intended use.
- Use the calculated pixel dimensions to check your scanner settings.

## Common Use Cases

- Choose the best DPI for scanning old family photos
- Estimate whether a scan is large enough to print
- Plan storage space before digitizing an album
- Compare 300 DPI, 600 DPI, and 1200 DPI scans

## FAQs

What DPI should I use to scan old photos?

Use 600 DPI for most family prints you want to restore or enlarge. Use 300 DPI for same-size prints and sharing, and consider 1200 DPI for wallet-size photos or fine detail.

Is 1200 DPI always better than 600 DPI?

No. A higher setting creates a larger file but cannot capture detail the print or scanner does not contain. Prefer true optical resolution and compare a small test area.

Should I save scans as TIFF or JPEG?

Keep a lossless TIFF or PNG master when storage allows, then make JPEG copies for easy sharing. Never overwrite the untouched master scan.

## Related Pages

- [How to Scan Old Photos](<https://restorebunny.com/guides/scan-old-photos/>)
- [Best DPI for Scanning Old Photos](<https://restorebunny.com/guides/best-dpi-to-scan-old-photos/>)
- [AI Photo Restoration](<https://restorebunny.com/features/photo-restoration/>)