PPI Calculator & Pixel Density
Density matters. Whether you're checking if a design will feel crisp on a high-res monitor or cramped on a phone, knowing the PPI is the first step.
Popular Device Pixel Densities
| Device Category | Typical PPI Range | Standard Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphones (iPhone/Pixel) | 320 – 500 PPI | Retina / OLED |
| Laptops (MacBook/Dell XPS) | 160 – 250 PPI | QHD / 4K Scaling |
| Desktop Monitors (27-32") | 90 – 160 PPI | 1080p / 1440p / 4K Native |
| Tablets (iPad/Surface) | 260 – 300 PPI | Liquid Retina |
Screen Density FAQs
What is a good PPI for a monitor?
For a typical desktop setup, a PPI of 90-110 is considered standard. High-density 'Retina' displays usually start around 200 PPI for laptops and 300-500 PPI for smartphones.
Is DPI the same as PPI?
Technically, no. PPI (Pixels Per Inch) refers to the number of pixels on a digital display, while DPI (Dots Per Inch) refers to the number of physical ink dots a printer can place in an inch. However, the terms are often used interchangeably in digital design.
How many PPI is a 27-inch 1440p screen?
A 27-inch monitor with a 2560 × 1440 resolution has a pixel density of approximately 108.79 PPI.
Does higher PPI mean better quality?
Yes, higher PPI results in a sharper, crisper image because the individual pixels are smaller and more difficult to see with the naked eye. This is especially important for text legibility.