Thermal label size and DPI calculator
Convert inches to dots at 203, 300, or 600 DPI. Then open that size in the free label maker.
Calculator
Pick your stock size and printer DPI. Then open that size on the canvas.
Why inches and DPI have to match
Thermal printers paint dots, not inches. A 4×6 label at 203 DPI is 812×1218 dots. At 300 DPI it is 1200×1800. If the software size does not match the stock, you get a half label, a skip, or a barcode that will not scan.
How to use this with the label maker
- Enter your stock width and height in inches.
- Pick 203, 300, or 600 to match the printhead.
- Click Open this size. The free label maker uses those inches.
- Print at actual size. Do not fit-to-page.
Common sizes in dots
| Size (in) | 203 DPI | 300 DPI | 600 DPI |
|---|
FAQ
Why is my 4×6 printing as 4×3?
The driver or PDF was scaled, or the app size does not match the stock. Set 4×6 in the maker and in the printer driver. This calculator shows the dot count the firmware expects.
Is 203 DPI enough for barcodes?
Yes for CODE128 and UPC at typical 2×1 and larger. Tiny 2D codes on jewelry tags often want 300 DPI. The maker rasterizes at the printer DPI you pick.