Dots versus Pixels

More definitions for digital imaging's favorite word


Dots Per Inch

    • Dots Per Inch is your Printer Resolution.

    • Dots Per Inch is a value that's determined by your hardware (your printer, in other words).

    • Dots Per Inch cannot be changed by the user through image editing software.

    • Dots Per Inch has no effect on the size of your printed image

    • Dots Per Inch does have an effect on the quality of your printed image.

Pixels Per Inch

    • Pixels Per Inch is your Output Resolution.

    • Pixels Per Inch is a value that's determined by your software (Photoshop, for example).

    • Pixels Per Inch can be changed by the user through image editing software.

    • Pixels Per Inch determines the size of your printed image.

    • Pixels Per Inch also does effect the quality of your printed image.

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To avoid confusion I use "dots per inch" when referring to the hardware (scanner or printer) capability and "pixels per inch" when referring to software settings.