KDP cover setup · Updated 2026-05-30
KDP cover pixel size at 300 PPI
Convert KDP cover dimensions in inches into pixel canvas size for 300 PPI print artwork.
Pixel size is a canvas conversion, not a separate trim size
After calculating the full cover size in inches, convert it to pixels by multiplying width and height by the PPI you plan to use. At 300 PPI, a 12.520 × 9.25 in cover file becomes 3756 × 2775 px for a 6 × 9 in, 120-page, black-and-white paperback on white paper.
Calculate the full cover file size first. Do not multiply only the front cover trim size, because that ignores the back cover, spine, and bleed.
- Pixel width = full cover width in inches × PPI.
- Pixel height = full cover height in inches × PPI.
- Use the same canvas size in your design tool before exporting the final cover PDF.
Example pixel canvases for 6 × 9 paperbacks
These examples assume 0.125 in bleed and 300 PPI. The width changes because spine width changes; the height stays 9.25 in for a 6 × 9 trim with bleed.
| Setup | Cover size | Pixel canvas |
|---|---|---|
| 120 pages · B&W white | 12.520 × 9.25 in | 3756 × 2775 px |
| 200 pages · B&W white | 12.700 × 9.25 in | 3810 × 2775 px |
| 200 pages · B&W cream | 12.750 × 9.25 in | 3825 × 2775 px |
| 120 pages · premium color | 12.532 × 9.25 in | 3760 × 2775 px |
When 300 PPI matters
300 PPI is a common print planning target because it keeps text edges, line art, and cover images sharper than a low-resolution canvas. The calculator lets you change PPI, but for final print artwork, 300 PPI is the safer default unless your workflow specifies another target.