There isn’t one “magic number” and that’s where most people go wrong.
The best font size depends on:
- 📏 Viewing distance
- 📐 Poster size (A4, A3, A2, A1, A0)
- 🎯 Purpose (event, retail, promotion, awareness)
- 🧠 Readability hierarchy
Quick Rule of Thumb (Distance Formula)
For every 1 metre of viewing distance, your letters should be at least 2.5–3 cm tall.
Recommended Poster Font Sizes (By Element)
| Poster Element | Recommended Font Size (A1 Poster) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Headline | 96–150 pt | Grab attention instantly |
| Subheading | 48–72 pt | Add clarity |
| Body Text | 24–36 pt | Provide details |
| Contact Info | 28–48 pt | Ensure action |
If your poster is placed in a shop window, the headline must be readable from across the street.
If it’s inside a venue, sizing can be slightly smaller.
👉 If you’re designing large prints, our large format printing service can guide you on exact scaling before production.
Key Questions People Ask About Poster Font Size
What size font should I use for an A1 poster?
For an A1 poster:
- Headline: 100–150 pt
- Subheading: 60–80 pt
- Body: 28–36 pt
But here’s what most business owners don’t realise
Contrast and spacing matter more than just size.
A 120 pt thin script font may still be unreadable. Always prioritise bold, clean typefaces.
How far away should a poster be readable?
Professional designers use this visibility principle:
A poster should be readable from at least 3–5x its width.
For shopfront marketing, aim for readability from:
- 3–5 metres (indoor)
- 5–10 metres (outdoor)
If it’s promotional, your headline must hit in under 3 seconds.
Anything longer = lost attention.
What fonts are best for posters?
Best options:
- Sans-serif fonts (clean, modern)
- Bold display fonts for headlines
- Avoid thin scripts
- Avoid overly decorative styles
If you’re unsure, our professional design team at Social Media Max can optimise typography for maximum visual impact.
5 Benefits of Choosing the Right Poster Font Size
- Instant Readability → Prevents customer confusion
- Stronger Brand Authority → Avoids looking amateur
- Higher Engagement → Stops people walking past
- Better Conversion Rates → Drives real enquiries
- Professional Impression → Builds trust immediately
Loss aversion truth:
If your competitor’s poster is clearer than yours
They win the customer.
Simple.
Pricing & Performance: Why Font Size Impacts ROI
Many businesses focus on print cost.
But the real question is:
Is your poster generating revenue?
A £40 poorly designed poster that converts zero customers is expensive.
A properly sized, professionally printed poster that generates even 5 sales? That’s ROI.
When investing in professional poster printing, always factor in:
- Design optimisation
- Viewing distance testing
- Print material
- Finish (matte vs gloss)
If you’re unsure which finish enhances readability, check our guide on glossy vs matte printing options.
Mistakes to Avoid (Experts See This Daily)
🚫 Using Canva default font sizes without scaling
🚫 Cramming too much text
🚫 Ignoring hierarchy
🚫 Using low-contrast colours
🚫 Printing without test proofing
Authority insight:
Professional printers adjust scale based on final print dimensions not screen view.
That’s why working with experienced providers like Social Media Max makes the difference.
How to Choose the Best Font Size for Your Poster
Follow this simple 5-step process:
- Define viewing distance
- Choose headline first
- Build size hierarchy
- Test readability at 3 metres
- Print a scaled sample
If you wait your competitor might already be using this strategy.
And they won’t tell you.
Before vs After Transformation
Before:
Small text. Cluttered layout. No response.
After:
Clear headline. Bold typography. Immediate impact. More enquiries.
That’s the difference correct font sizing makes.
Final Thoughts: Small Detail. Big Impact.
Font size isn’t just a design decision.
It’s a conversion decision.
If your poster can’t communicate instantly, it fails.
But when done right?
It becomes a silent salesperson working 24/7.
👉 Ready to grow your business with professional poster printing?
Contact Social Media Max today.
Don’t wait your competitors won’t.