A4 Paper Size

www.A4PaperSize.org provide measurements and dimensions of current A4 paper measurements in countries such as the UK, Australia, India, Singapore, Germany, Europe and the USA.

We strive to keep our visitors up to date with the latest dimensions of A4 size paper. www.A4PaperSize.org shows the A4 sheet dimensions in centimetres, inches, millimetres and pixels for Photoshop.

To get started in finding the A4 paper dimensions you’re looking for, click one of the four options listed below. Visit our articles page to learn How Paper is Made and The History of Paper.

A4 Paper Size in MM, CM, Inches and Pixels

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PAPER SIZE	DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETERS (MM)	DIMENSIONS IN CENTIMETERS (CM)	DIMENSIONS IN INCHES (IN)	DIMENSIONS IN PIXELS (PX) AT 300 DPI*
A4	210 x 297	21.0 x 29.7	8.3 x 11.7	2480 x 3508

*Please note that pixel dimensions can vary based on the dots per inch (DPI) of the image. The pixel dimensions provided here are calculated assuming a resolution of 300 DPI, which is a common standard for high-quality print jobs. For digital or web use, you might use a lower DPI (such as 72 or 96), which would result in fewer pixels for the same physical dimensions.

A4 Paper Size in Various Units

Explore the A4 paper size in multiple units of measurement. Below, you’ll find detailed conversions for A4 size in Micrometres (μm), Millimetres (mm), Centimetres (cm), Metres (m), Thou (th), Inches (in), Feet (ft), Yards (yd), Pixels, Pica, Point, and HPGL. Click on the respective links to view the precise dimensions for each unit.

Letter Size Paper Vs A4 Size Paper

Letter size paper remains in North American countries, where most of the world uses A4 paper dimensions. The size of A4 sheet is half the size of an A3 sheet, and twice the dimensions of A5 sheet. The dimensions of Letter on the other hand, doesn’t have any mathematics dimensions that can be compared to different size imperial paper easily.

Metric A4 Size:

• 210 x 297 millimeters
• 21 x 29.7 centimetres
• 0.21 x 0.297 meters

Imperial A4 Size:

• 8.267 x 11.692 inches
• 0.688 x 0.974 feet
• 0.229 x 0.324 yards

Metric Letter Dimensions:

• 215.9 x 279.4 millimeters
• 21.59 x 27.94 centimetres
• 0.216 x 0.2794 meters

Imperial Letter Dimensions:

• 8.5 x 11 inches
• 0.708 x 0.916 feet
• 0.236 x 0.305 yards

A sizes in mm and inches Table

FAQ on A4 Size Paper

When Did A4 Size Become A Standard – ISO 216

A4 paper became a standard in the late 1970’s. However, even though the ISO 216 standards were introduced in the early 20th century, it took more than 50 years for these paper dimensions to be recognised world wide. The standard is now used in the UK, India, Singapore, Germany, Europe, Japan and most other countries.

Which Countries Use A4 Paper

Today, A4 is used by most countries around the world. With the exception of the USA and Canada. Many South American countries such as Mexico, Costa Rica, Chile, Venezuela and more, have officially taken on the A4 sheet dimensions standard. However, the most common page size in these countries is still ‘Letter Size’, along with other imperial page sizes.

When To Use A4 Size

A4 size is the most common paper standard in the world. It it used for everyday tasks like to-do lists, printing information from a computer, schedules and many other daily tasks. The A4’s size allows you to fit it inside a C4 envelope.

Who Invented Paper Standards

In the 1920’s, Dr Porstmann of Germany published a document proposing a standard for sheet dimensions that would later change the world. Dr Porstmann’s theory quickly became DIN approved, which is a standard in Germany meaning ‘Deutsches Institut for Normung’. In English, DIN translates as ‘German Institute for Standardisation’. A4 size is now under the international standard of ISO 216.

Why Standard Paper Dimensions Were Invented

Paper standards were introduced to make life easier for publishers in the 1700’s. Different sizes mean different size envelopes, different letter boxes and unbalanced sheet stacks. If paper was never standardised today, it would be a lot more expensive. We would need different dimension fax machines, printers, in and out trays, etc.

A4 Paper Size

History of A4 Paper Size

The A4 paper size originated from the German DIN 476 standard back in the early 20th century, which later evolved into the ISO 216 standard. The unique aspect ratio of A4, 1:√2, was chosen due to its unique property that when cut or folded in half widthwise, the halves also have the same aspect ratio. This standard has been adopted worldwide due to its practicality and convenience.

Understanding the A4 Paper Size

A4’s dimensions of 210 by 297 millimeters make it slightly longer and narrower than the US Letter size, which measures 216 by 279 millimeters. This subtle difference can have significant impacts, particularly in the digital world. When scanning, printing, or designing digital layouts, using the correct paper size setting ensures proper alignment and minimizes wastage.

Versatility of A4 Paper Size

The versatility of A4 paper cannot be overstated. In professional settings, it’s used for a range of documents, from contracts to memos, reports, and more. In personal and educational contexts, it’s ideal for crafts, artwork, school projects, and more.

Maximizing the Use of A4 Paper in the Office

However, the efficient use of A4 paper goes beyond choosing the right type of paper. It also involves optimizing document design. Correct text formatting, appropriate use of graphics, and suitable margins and spacing can ensure that the document is readable while maximizing space.

In addition to design, offices can strategize for efficient paper use. Duplex printing, for example, allows printing on both sides of the paper, effectively halving the number of pages used. Similarly, implementing paper-saving office policies, such as encouraging digital sharing over physical copies, can dramatically reduce paper consumption.

The use of A4 paper also has a crucial role in sustainable office practices. By consciously reducing paper waste and recycling used paper, businesses can minimize their environmental footprint.

Choosing the Right A4 Paper for Your Needs

When selecting A4 paper, consider factors such as weight, brightness, and finish. Each of these factors can impact the print quality and the suitability of the paper for specific uses. For example, heavier paper with a high brightness and a matte finish might be perfect for formal reports, while a lighter, less bright paper could be more than sufficient for internal documents.

The Future of A4 Paper Size

The digital transformation has had a profound impact on paper usage. More and more offices are moving towards paperless operations, fueled by sustainability initiatives and advancements in technology. However, the need for physical documents remains, and the A4 paper size is likely to continue its reign in the foreseeable future. At the same time, we can expect to see more sustainable alternatives and innovations in the paper industry.

Conclusion

The A4 paper size, while seemingly simple, has a rich history, a unique set of dimensions, and a plethora of uses. Understanding these factors can help you optimize your use of A4 paper in the office, contributing to more efficient operations and more sustainable practices. So, next time you hold that sheet of A4 paper, know that it is more than just a piece of paper: it’s a tool, a tool for creativity, communication, and endless possibilities. Whether it’s used to draft important documents, craft fun origami shapes, or jot down brilliant ideas, A4 paper is a symbol of practicality and versatility. Its standardized dimensions have bridged the gap between tradition and innovation, making it indispensable in both personal and professional settings. Embracing the full potential of A4 paper not only enhances productivity but also sparks imagination, proving that even the simplest things can leave a lasting impact.

Creative Folding Games You Can Make with a Single A4 Sheet

There are countless creative folding games you can make with just a single sheet of A4 paper. Popular options include creating a paper airplane for some quick fun, folding an origami crane to showcase traditional craftsmanship, or crafting a paper fortune teller to entertain friends with playful predictions. You can also try making a simple bookmark, a paper boat, or even an intricate flower design. These activities not only boost creativity but are also a great way to relax and enjoy some hands-on fun.

Here are detailed instructions for a few fun creations with a single A4 sheet:

1. Paper Airplane

1. Fold the paper in half vertically to create a center crease, then unfold it.
2. Bring each of the top corners down so their edges meet the center line, forming two triangles.
3. Fold the top angled edges inward again, aligning them with the center line.
4. Fold the entire paper in half toward you along the original crease.
5. Create the wings by folding each side down, aligning the top edges with the bottom edge of the body.
6. Apply double-sided tape to the inside of the body to secure it. Your finished plane should resemble the example shown.

2. Paper Boat

1. Fold in Half Lengthways: Take the A4 sheet and fold it in half lengthwise. Open it again to create a crease.
2. Fold in Half Again the Other Way: Fold the paper in half widthwise to create another crease.
3. Bring the Corners into the Center Line: Fold both top corners inward to meet at the center crease, forming a triangle at the top.
4. Fold Each Side Up at the Bottom: Fold the bottom edges of the paper up on both sides, aligning them with the bottom of the triangle.
5. Pull the Sides Out and Flatten: Gently pull apart the sides of the folded paper and flatten it to form a square shape.
6. Fold Front Up to Top: Fold the bottom corners of the square upward to the top on one side. Repeat the same on the other side.
7. Pull the Sides Apart and Flatten Again: Pull apart the sides once more to form another square and flatten it.
8. Gently Pull the Top Parts Out: Carefully pull apart the top sections to start shaping the boat.
9. Flatten Boat Down Well: Adjust and flatten the bottom of the boat for stability.
10. Open Out Slightly to Make the Boat Shape: Open the sides slightly to give the boat its final shape.

50 Fascinating and Fun Facts About A4 Paper You Didn’t Know

1. The length of the Golden Gate Bridge (2,737 meters) equals about 3,847 A4 sheets laid end to end.
2. If you stacked 200,000 sheets of A4, it would be as tall as the Eiffel Tower.
3. A single A4 sheet weighs approximately 4.99 grams.
4. Folding an A4 paper in half just 42 times would theoretically make it thick enough to reach the Moon.
5. The surface area of an A4 sheet is 0.062 square meters.
6. You can cut an A4 sheet into a Möbius strip to create a single-sided shape.
7. An A4 sheet can be folded into a crane in origami—a symbol of hope in Japan.
8. The world’s largest paper airplane was made with A4-sized folds and measured over 14 meters in length.
9. An A4 sheet can be folded into a paper boat that floats for hours.
10. A standard A4 sheet is part of the ISO 216 paper size system, ensuring global standardization.
11. About 10,000 A4 sheets would cover a full-sized tennis court.
12. A stack of 1,000 sheets of A4 paper would weigh roughly 5 kilograms.
13. The largest A4 printer in the world can print 1,000 sheets per minute.
14. One ream (500 sheets) of A4 is roughly 5 cm thick.
15. An A4 paper plane can glide for up to 10 meters, depending on its design.
16. A4-sized pop-up cards are a hit for creative DIY gifts.
17. 3D puzzles and models are often made using precise A4 templates.
18. A4 paper can be folded into a functional envelope in seconds.
19. One A4 sheet can be cut into up to 64 equal squares for craft projects.
20. An A4 sheet’s diagonal is about 36.1 cm long.
21. A standard office printer uses up to 15 liters of ink to print 10,000 A4 pages.
22. Recycling 1 ton of A4 paper saves approximately 17 trees.
23. The Mona Lisa fits perfectly within an A4 frame when scaled down.
24. A4 paper is the standard for resumes in over 148 countries.
25. Many modern art galleries use A4 paper for miniature exhibits.
26. A4 is the preferred size for legal documents in Europe and Asia.
27. A4 sheets can be rolled into kaleidoscopes for fun science projects.
28. Artists often use A4 sheets for concept sketches.
29. A single A4 page can be transformed into an accordion booklet.
30. When laminated, an A4 paper becomes a sturdy placemat.
31. Quilling art frequently uses strips cut from A4 paper.
32. A4 paper is the most common size used in photocopy machines globally.
33. One A4 sheet can be turned into a functional mini notebook.
34. A creative use for A4 is making shadow puppets.
35. An A4 paper’s width (21 cm) is approximately the length of a giraffe’s tongue!
36. The thickness of 200,000 A4 sheets equals the height of the Burj Khalifa.
37. Stop-motion animations often use A4 sheets for storytelling.
38. A4 sheets make excellent stencils for painting projects.
39. A4 is the standard size for school textbooks in many countries.
40. An A4 sheet can be turned into a calendar with minimal effort.
41. In calligraphy practice, A4 is the perfect size for beginners.
42. Folding A4 paper allows you to create intricate optical illusions.
43. A4-sized gift bags are a fun and practical craft.
44. Most printed photographs are scaled to fit A4 for home albums.
45. The surface of an A4 paper can be made waterproof with wax.
46. A4 paper can be rolled into a tube to make a functional telescope model.
47. Bullet journaling is commonly done on A4-sized notebooks.
48. Architectural sketches and blueprints often start on A4 paper.
49. A4 paper makes an ideal template for cutting fabric patterns in sewing projects.
50. The design for the first known folding book in China fits perfectly on an A4 when modernized.