When buying paper for your printer or choosing the right print settings, one question comes up often: What size is printer paper? Understanding printer paper sizes is essential whether you’re printing documents, photos, flyers, or labels. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common printer paper sizes used at home, in offices, and for professional printing in 2025.
Standard Printer Paper Size (U.S. and International)
1. U.S. Standard – Letter Size
- Size: 8.5 x 11 inches (216 x 279 mm)
- Usage: This is the most commonly used paper size in the United States and Canada. Ideal for everyday printing—documents, reports, schoolwork, and office use.
2. International Standard – A4 Size
- Size: 210 x 297 mm (8.27 x 11.69 inches)
- Usage: The global standard for printer paper, widely used across Europe, Asia, and other regions. Perfect for general-purpose printing and business documents.
Other Common Printer Paper Sizes
3. Legal Size
- Size: 8.5 x 14 inches (216 x 356 mm)
- Usage: Used for contracts, legal documents, and forms that require extra length.
4. Tabloid or Ledger Size
- Size: 11 x 17 inches (279 x 432 mm)
- Usage: Popular for spreadsheets, presentations, booklets, and design layouts. Requires wide-format printers.
5. Photo Paper Sizes
- 4 x 6 inches – Standard for small photo prints.
- 5 x 7 inches – Used for framed photos and photo albums.
- 8 x 10 inches – Great for high-quality photo enlargements.
A-Series Sizes (Used Globally)
- A3: 297 x 420 mm (11.7 x 16.5 in) – Used for posters and large-format prints.
- A5: 148 x 210 mm (5.8 x 8.3 in) – Often used for notepads, planners, and flyers.
- A6: 105 x 148 mm (4.1 x 5.8 in) – Ideal for postcards or smaller handouts.
Choosing the Right Paper Size for Your Printer
Most home and office printers support Letter (8.5×11) and A4 by default. If you need to print on legal, tabloid, or photo paper, make sure your printer’s paper tray supports those sizes. Some printers also have adjustable trays or rear feed slots for specialty paper.
Conclusion
The most common printer paper size is 8.5 x 11 inches (Letter size) in North America, and A4 (210 x 297 mm) internationally. However, depending on your needs—whether printing photos, legal docs, or design layouts—knowing the available options ensures better print results and fewer issues with formatting.
Whether you’re working from home or managing a small business, choosing the right paper size helps you produce professional, accurate prints every time.
