Introduction
Many people get confused when comparing paper sizes. If you’re printing menus, posters, flyers or takeaway menus, choosing the wrong size can waste money, distort your design, and reduce readability. The A-series (A1, A2, A3, A4) follows a mathematical scale, but unless you work in printing, it feels like a puzzle.
This guide clears everything up in a simple, practical way so you can choose the right size with confidence.
What Do A1, A2, A3 and A4 Actually Mean?
The A-series is a globally recognised paper system based on the ISO 216 standard.
The logic is simple:
Every time you move up a number, the sheet halves.
A1 is twice as big as A2.
A2 is twice as big as A3.
A3 is twice as big as A4.
Dimensions in millimetres (mm)
| Size | Dimensions (mm) |
|---|---|
| A1 | 594 x 841 mm |
| A2 | 420 x 594 mm |
| A3 | 297 x 420 mm |
| A4 | 210 x 297 mm |
Key Questions People Ask
Is A3 bigger than A4?
Yes. A3 is double the size of A4.
Is A1 the biggest of the four?
Yes. A1 is the largest size in this comparison.
How many A4 sheets equal one A1?
One A1 sheet equals eight A4 sheets.
Which size is best for posters?
Most posters are printed on A2 or A1, depending on how large you want the display.
What size do most takeaway menus use?
A4 and A5 are the most common, but tri-fold A4 and extended sizes are also popular.
(If you’re printing menus, explore custom options here: https://socialmediamax.co.uk/product/takeaway-menu-printing/)
A1 vs A2 vs A3 vs A4 Size Comparison (FAB Breakdown)
A1
Feature: Very large sheet
Advantage: High visibility
Benefit: Perfect for posters, signs and event boards.
A2
Feature: Half of A1
Advantage: Still large but more practical
Benefit: Ideal for wall posters and restaurant displays.
A3
Feature: Mid-large size
Advantage: Easy to handle, good for menus on walls
Benefit: Great for laminated price lists or café table menus.
A4
Feature: Standard paper size
Advantage: Affordable and easy to print
Benefit: Perfect for takeaway menus, leaflets and everyday printing.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Paper Size
- Choosing A1 for indoor spaces where A2 would fit better
- Designing for A4 but printing on A3, causing pixelation
- Using A4 for posters when the audience is far away
- Selecting a size without checking aspect ratios
How to Choose the Right Size
- Use A1 for large posters, events and promotions
- Choose A2 for indoor displays or menus on walls
- Pick A3 for boards, laminated menus or table signs
- Stick to A4 for takeaway menus, booklets and leaflets
Looking for custom menu prints or larger display menus? You can explore professional menu printing options here: https://socialmediamax.co.uk/product/takeaway-menu-printing/
Final Thoughts
Understanding A-series sizes helps you print smarter, avoid costly mistakes, and keep your branding consistent. Once you know the hierarchy from A1 to A4, selecting the right format becomes effortless.
If you’re preparing menus, posters or marketing materials and want high-quality, professional printing, you can request a custom quote or explore menu printing options anytime.
Ready to print confidently?
Let’s create something that actually gets noticed.