German Series
DIN A3
Belonging to the ISO 216 standard, DIN A3 is a paper size that holds significant importance in the world of print and design. This format, measuring 297 x 420 millimeters or 11.7 x 16.5 inches, is precisely double the size of its counterpart, DIN A4.
As part of the A series in the ISO standard, DIN A3 maintains an aspect ratio of √2:1. This unique characteristic ensures that when you cut or fold the paper in half along its longest side, you retain two sheets of the next size down with identical proportions.
DIN A3 paper dimensions
Specs
| Format | in | mm | cm | pt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2A0 | 46.81 x 66.22 | 1189 x 1682 | 119 x 168 | 3370 x 4768 |
| A12 | 0.51 x 0.71 | 13 x 18 | 1 x 2 | 37 x 51 |
| 4A0 | 66.22 x 93.62 | 1682 x 2378 | 168 x 238 | 4768 x 6741 |
| A11 | 0.71 x 1.02 | 18 x 26 | 2 x 3 | 51 x 74 |
| A10 | 1.02 x 1.46 | 26 x 37 | 3 x 4 | 74 x 105 |
| A3+ | 12.95 x 19.02 | 329 x 483 | 33 x 48 | 933 x 1369 |
| A1+ | 23.98 x 35.98 | 609 x 914 | 61 x 91 | 1726 x 2591 |
| A0+ | 35.98 x 50.87 | 914 x 1292 | 91 x 129 | 2591 x 3662 |
| A6 | 4.13 x 5.83 | 105 x 148 | 11 x 15 | 298 x 420 |
| A5 | 5.83 x 8.27 | 148 x 210 | 15 x 21 | 420 x 595 |
| A4 | 8.27 x 11.69 | 210 x 297 | 21 x 30 | 595 x 842 |
| A3 | 11.69 x 16.54 | 297 x 420 | 30 x 42 | 842 x 1191 |
| A9 | 1.46 x 2.05 | 37 x 52 | 4 x 5 | 105 x 147 |
| A2 | 16.54 x 23.39 | 420 x 594 | 42 x 59 | 1191 x 1684 |
| A8 | 2.05 x 2.91 | 52 x 74 | 5 x 7 | 147 x 210 |
| A1 | 23.39 x 33.11 | 594 x 841 | 59 x 84 | 1684 x 2384 |
| A7 | 2.91 x 4.13 | 74 x 105 | 7 x 11 | 210 x 298 |
| A0 | 33.11 x 46.81 | 841 x 1189 | 84 x 119 | 2384 x 3370 |
DIN A3's versatility makes it a popular choice across various industries and applications. It's frequently used for drawings, diagrams, large tables or charts where clarity and visibility are paramount. In marketing materials such as posters and brochures where visual impact is key, DIN A3 provides ample space for compelling visuals and persuasive copy.
While not commonly used in North America due to ANSI standards' prevalence there, DIN A3 enjoys widespread use across Europe and other parts of the world adhering to ISO standards.
DIN A3's unique dimensions combined with its adherence to international standards make it an essential tool in professional print and design environments worldwide.
Other Formats in the German Series
Interesting facts about DIN A3
1: The Origin of DIN A3
DIN A3 paper is part of the international standard for paper sizes known as the ISO 216 series. It was first introduced in Germany in the early 20th century by the Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN), hence the name "DIN A3".
2: Dimensions and Proportions
DIN A3 measures 297 x 420 millimeters or approximately 11.7 x 16.5 inches. It has an aspect ratio of approximately 1:√2, which means that when folded in half, it retains its proportions.
3: Twice the Size of DIN A4
DIN A3 is exactly twice the size of its smaller counterpart, DIN A4. When you fold a sheet of DIN A3 paper in half, you get two sheets of DIN A4.
4: Commonly Used for Posters and Artwork
Due to its larger size, DIN A3 is often used for printing posters, artwork, architectural drawings, and other visual displays that require more space than standard letter-sized or legal-sized papers can provide.
5: Widely Accepted International Standard
The ISO 216 series, including DIN A3 paper size, is recognized and used by many countries worldwide. This standard ensures compatibility between different printers and copiers across borders.
6: Variations Across Regions
In some countries outside Europe that do not follow the ISO standards strictly, similar paper sizes exist but with slightly different dimensions compared to DIN A3. For example, North American Ledger/Tabloid paper measures 279 x 432 millimeters.
7: A3+ and Super A3
There are variations of DIN A3 paper, such as A3+ and Super A3. These sizes have slightly larger dimensions to accommodate printers with wider carriage widths, allowing for borderless printing.
8: Commonly Used in Education
DIN A3 paper is frequently used in educational settings for activities like group projects, presentations, and visual aids. Its larger size allows for more content to be displayed at once.
9: Environmental Considerations
Using DIN A3 paper can contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the number of sheets required compared to smaller sizes. However, it is important to consider responsible paper usage and recycling practices.
10: Digital Alternatives
In today's digital age, the need for physical copies on DIN A3 paper has decreased due to advancements in electronic displays and projectors. However, its use remains prevalent in certain industries where large-scale prints are still necessary.
