Choose the Right Resolution for Map Art Prints

Choose a frame shape before generating, then choose the print size from the actual file you download. A resolution tier is a useful starting point; pixel dimensions and the print shop's target PPI determine how much paper those pixels cover.

Pick a resolution and budget

Output tier	Credits per successful generation or edit	Access
1K	1	All accounts
2K	2	Plus/Pro or remaining pack credits
4K	3	Plus/Pro or remaining pack credits

The credit quote appears before you confirm. A credit pack is a one-time purchase, not a subscription. Pack credits do not expire; subscription credits reset on renewal. Higher-resolution access for a pack user depends on having a positive pack balance when submitting the task.

Match the shape to the frame

All accounts can choose the ten supported ratios: 1:1, 2:3, 3:2, 3:4, 4:3, 4:5, 5:4, 9:16, 16:9 and 21:9. For a portrait frame, 2:3 or 3:4 may be suitable; compare the actual frame opening before choosing. A paper size, a frame opening and the artwork's ratio are not always the same.

Changing a completed image to another ratio means reframing and generating again. If the printer crops to fill a frame, important labels or route endpoints can be lost. Leave breathing room, or use a border to keep the whole composition.

Read pixels, then calculate centimetres

Open the downloaded file's image information and read both width and height in pixels. Use the file itself: the same “1K” label does not imply that every ratio or image provider produces 1024×1024 pixels.

Print size in centimetres = pixels ÷ target PPI × 2.54, calculated separately for each side. Ask your printer for the target PPI and viewing-distance advice.

One checked 1K portrait output measured 848×1264 pixels. Its calculated dimensions are:

Pixel dimensions	Target PPI	Calculated width × height
848×1264	300	7.2 × 10.7 cm
848×1264	150	14.4 × 21.4 cm

This is a sizing calculation from a measured image, not a print-quality test. Choosing a lower PPI makes the print larger, not more detailed. Check your own 2K or 4K file in the same way; a tier label alone does not guarantee A2 or A3 quality. Changing a file's PPI metadata does not add pixels.

A completed 2K Map and its chat-edited version were also checked: both original PNGs are 1792×2400 pixels. That gives 15.2×20.3 cm at 300 PPI, or 30.3×40.6 cm at 150 PPI. See the actual edit comparison. These figures describe those two files; they do not establish the dimensions of every 2K ratio or verify a 4K file.

Choose the correct download

Free downloads are watermarked JPEGs. An active Plus/Pro subscription, a remaining pack balance or an existing entitlement for that specific version allows the clean original PNG. A version with permanent clean-download rights remains unlocked when pack credits run out; that does not unlock every future version or higher-resolution generation.

Use the downloaded original for a clean print when you have access. A screenshot or a public preview can have fewer pixels and a watermark. Check spelling, roads, landmarks and the full route before paying a printer; AI artwork can change background details even when the route overlay follows your uploaded track.

A practical order

1. Choose the place or upload your route in creation chat.
2. Pick the composition, ratio and tier, review the quote, then generate.
3. Resolve visual changes with image editing before printing. Check the new version's dimensions too, especially if your access has changed.
4. Download, calculate the size, and confirm crop, borders and a proof with your printer.

Cartosketch supplies a digital file. Printing, framing and delivery are arranged separately. For ideas, see personal map gifts and marathon posters.

For route gifts, compare the existing NYC Marathon blueprint and Lake Annecy watercolor examples. Check the file you actually download for print dimensions; the website preview is for choosing the visual treatment.