Exact size comparison
A3 vs Tabloid: wider or taller changes the whole spread.
A3 is 17.6 mm wider, while Tabloid is 11.8 mm taller. The sheets look similar in a printer menu but do not share the same proportion.
The short answer
A3 gives more horizontal room in portrait orientation; Tabloid adds vertical room and matches two US Letter pages.
A3 is 17.6 mm wider, while Tabloid is 11.8 mm taller. The sheets look similar in a printer menu but do not share the same proportion. The difference is 17.6 mm in width and 11.8 mm in height.
Side by side
A3 and Tabloid dimensions
| Measurement | A3 | Tabloid | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Width | 297 mm / 11.69 in | 279.4 mm / 11 in | 17.6 mm |
| Height | 420 mm / 16.54 in | 431.8 mm / 17 in | 11.8 mm |
| Area | 0.1247 m² | 0.1206 m² | 41 cm² |
| 300 DPI | 3508 × 4961 px | 3300 × 5100 px | Different canvas |
| Primary context | ISO markets | US and Canada | Workflow-dependent |
Choose A3 when
- The print shop specifies ISO sizes
- The layout is built as two A4 pages
- The audience works primarily with A-series paper
Choose Tabloid when
- The document is a two-page Letter spread
- The office copier uses 11 × 17 trays
- A North American form specifies Tabloid or Ledger
Choose the actual tray size before opening a print dialog. “Fit” can hide the mismatch by shrinking type, margins, and drawing scales.
Questions people ask
A3 vs Tabloid FAQ
Is A3 the same size as Tabloid?
No. A3 is 297 × 420 mm; Tabloid is 279.4 × 431.8 mm.
Which is wider, A3 or Tabloid?
A3 is 17.6 mm wider.
Which is taller, A3 or Tabloid?
Tabloid is 11.8 mm taller.
Can I print one format on the other?
Often, but not at identical proportions. Choose the actual tray size before opening a print dialog. “Fit” can hide the mismatch by shrinking type, margins, and drawing scales.
Use the numbers