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Image resolution affects not just the quality of a picture, but also its size. Lower parameters will result in blurry outputs, while higher ones can cause the sizes to become too large.

When it comes to digital content, understanding how to change the resolution of photos is a crucial skill for anyone who works with them. It provides you with greater influence over their files and ensures that they stay impeccable, no matter where they are utilized or printed.

How we picked image resolution changers

To come up with the top 5 tools to adjust photo resolution, we evaluated platforms based on the following criteria:

• Ease of use;
• Device and OS compatibility;
• Availability of the free version;
• Price of Pro version/subscription, if applicable;
• Additional functionality.

Read on to find the best photo resizer for your needs, skills, budget, device type, and operating system.

Way 1. Icecream Image Resizer (Windows)

Sometimes you may want to resize photos because they don’t fit a certain situation. For example, it’s impossible to email high-quality elements if they exceed limitations. Also, some online resources only accept content of a certain size.

To give you full control, you need a program with great functionality. One such software is Icecream Image Resizer.

How to adjust your photo's resolution with Icecream Image Resizer

1. Download free image resizer for Windows, complete the installation process, and launch the application.
2. Click the "Add image to resize" button in the middle of the main window. You can also hit "Add folder" and import an entire set located in one place.
3. Configure the settings. You can choose one of the suggested options, or pick "Manual" and enter values.
4. To initiate the processing, press the "Resize" button.
5. Once it is finished, click "Open folder" to go to the destination of your result.

Image Resizer

Batch resize JPG, JPEG, PNG, BMP and TIFF images in just a couple of clicks. Apply custom watermarks and more. And all from an intuitive interface.

Free Download

Tips to change image resolution

Before you begin, consider the following recommendations to make your experience as smooth as possible.

1. Check the dimensions. When altering the size, examine its current measurements and resolution.
2. Select the right software. Opt for photo editing software that is suitable for the type of pictures you are working with.
3. Back up the original file. Before making changes, duplicate your file. This way, you will not overwrite your original.
4. Understand DPI. Familiarize yourself with the term DPI (dots per inch) and how it affects the sharpness.
5. Compress files. This process can diminish the size and decrease resolution while still safeguarding their overall quality.
6. Change types. Convert your content from one format to another, a more efficient one.

Way 2. Preview (MacOS)

If you want to print a photo, you want to have have in its best size. On the other hand, if you need something for a website, you'll need to make sure the file isn't too large.

Preview is an app designed to view and edit content on Apple devices. It comes pre-installed on all macOS devices, so it is the perfect choice to quickly change your image resolution.

How to resize photos on macOS in Preview

1. First, open what you intend to modify in the app. Double-click the file if Preview is set as your default viewer, or right-click on it and hit "Open with...".
2. Next, select "Tools" and choose the "Adjust Size" option found in the drop-down menu.
3. A window will appear with several options. You can pick one of the presets or enter specific "Width" and "Height" measurements.
4. Once you're ready, hit "OK" at the lower part of the window to apply the results. The original will be altered.

Way 3. Fotor (Online)

Although it's great to have a specific photo resolution changer for your device type and OS, sometimes you may need to use a cross-platform tool. Consider the option with an online platform.

For example, take a look at Fotor. It is a web-based editor and image resizer that provides the means to adjust the dimensions as well as other features.

How to change photo resolution with Fotor

1. Open the website and hover over "Photo Editing Tools" to open the drop-down menu. Select "Resize Image".
2. In the new window, hit "Resize Your Image for Free".
3. Click the "Open Image" button to upload the files or drag and drop them directly into the browser's tab.
4. In the "Resize" field, enter the desired dimensions. Don't forget to hit the Lock icon, so the changes apply proportionally.
5. Press "Apply" to save your results.
6. Utilize the "Download" button, enter the name, and choose the format and quality. Click "Download" again.

Ways 4 & 5. Mobile apps

Sometimes you need to catch up with the work on the go and don't have your computer or laptop handy, or are not connected to the internet. In such a situation, you can always rely on your phone.

To change the image's resolution on mobile devices, you won't even need a new program - you already have them pre-installed.

See below how to change the resolution of pictures on your phone - iPhone and Android-based ones.

Photos (iOS)

1. Open the app and select the photo you want to work on.
2. Tap the "Edit" button at the top of the screen. Hit "Crop".
3. In the top right corner, locate an icon with "Segmented screen". Set the dimensions to the desired size: pick a shape or one of the pre-set aspect ratios.
4. When you're finished, tap "Done" again to save everything and return to your library.

Gallery (Android)

1. Open the image you need to work on.
2. Click the "Pencil" icon to bring up the features.
3. Hit the "Three-dots" icon on the very right of the toolbar. Select the "Resize" option.
4. Choose one of the provided photo resolution configurations and press "Done" to apply the changes.

That's it! You can now share your new content with friends and family, or employ it however you like! With just a few simple steps, you can easily change the resolution of a picture on your phone.

Although very basic, the capabilities of these widgets are sufficient to make simple adjustments when you're short on time and resources.

Setting the right photo resolution

Selecting the appropriate parameters depends largely on the intended use. Below are some guidelines along with the impact on clarity and size.

Printing

For printing purposes, especially for large formats like posters or banners, you'll need a high-resolution image.

This means more dots per inch (DPI), resulting in sharper and clearer results. 300 DPI is the standard for most needs.

Web sharing

For displaying on websites or social media platforms, you don't need as high parameters as for printing.

Images with lower resolution may appear slightly less sharp, but the difference is usually not noticeable unless zoomed in. Generally, between 72 to 150 DPI is suitable for sharing online.

Plus, such files have smaller sizes, so they are quicker to load. This is important for performance and experience.

Photo resolutions for different use cases

FAQ

How do I adjust the pixel count?

In many editors, you will be able to enter the specific values for width and height, setting the exact number of pixels.

Can I make a photo bigger while preserving its quality?

You can try an image editor with AI features to increase the size. For example, some smart tools will generate additional background around the existing one to help you get a photo with a higher resolution.

Will changing the image resolution result in reducing the file size?

Yes. For instance, if you lower the settings, the content will become smaller.

How do I resize an image without losing quality?

This requires using an advanced program, such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP. You also have to be proficient in the tool and its capabilities.

Is there any way to enlarge a small element without compromising its quality?

Unfortunately, no. It is not possible to retain all of its original clarity. As a result of the decrease in clarity when making it a larger size.

What is DPI, and how does it relate to photo resolution?

DPI stands for "dots per inch" and is a measure used to describe the physical size of a printed photograph about its pixel dimensions (resolution). Generally speaking, higher DPI means better quality and bigger files.

What is the difference between DPI and PPI?

DPI is related to the physical printing, while PPI pertains to the display or resolution.

What is resampling?

It is the process of adding or removing pixels.

Image Resizer

Batch resize JPG, JPEG, PNG, BMP and TIFF images in just a couple of clicks. Apply custom watermarks and more. And all from an intuitive interface.

Free Download

Conclusion

In conclusion, learning how to change the photo's dimensions is fairly simple and can be completed without any professional help. In a short amount of time, you can reap the rewards without compromising quality or spending too much of your day.

By following the steps outlined in the article, you can easily and quickly adjust the resolution on any device. So what are you waiting for? Get started now and take advantage of this guide to pick the best tool for you!

Paul Skidmore

Tech Writer and Photography Aficionado

Paul is a self-professed photography and tech nerd and has years of experience working with various editing software. He has a passion for travel and has taken his camera to destinations including Antarctica, Singapore, Indonesia, and Greenland.