Yes, you probably never sat down to think about what type of paper is best for your company or whether this could affect your finances. In fact, it does, and yes, it does affect them. 

This guide will show you the key differences between A3 and A4 paper sizes, including costs, space requirements, and use cases. You’ll learn exactly which size best fits your needs and how to avoid common selection mistakes that waste time and money.

• A3 paper offers twice A4’s size for large-format printing needs.
• A4 remains standard worldwide, ideal for everyday office documents.
• A3 printers cost triple but provide advanced features and higher volumes.
• Consider space requirements, as A3 printers need 40% more room.

Before you choose, here we will show you everything you need to know to make the right decision and, once and for all, give stationery the importance it deserves in your office.  A4 is the most common paper size worldwide, making up about 85% of all office printing (International Paper Association, 2024). However, the demand for A3 is growing, especially in design and architecture. TVG Consulting helps businesses match the right paper sizes to their printing requirements, ensuring you get the best fit for your office.

A3 vs A4 Printer Size

When it comes to printers, size DOES matter, especially when your space is limited. so it’s something to consider before making a decision. 

On the other hand, A4 printers are about 40% smaller, making them ideal for home offices or hybrid workspaces. Consider your available office space and whether you need to move the device between rooms or locations.

A3 Paper Size

A3 paper measures 11.7 x 16.5 inches, making it twice the size of A4. This larger format is ideal for printing posters, blueprints, marketing materials, and documents that need more space for visuals or detailed information.

If your business regularly creates presentations, construction plans, or large-format prints, A3 gives you the flexibility to handle these tasks in-house. The difference in size also means you can print two A4 pages on one A3 sheet, which can be useful for booklets or handouts.

A4 Paper Size

A4 paper is 8.3 x 11.7 inches and is the standard for most offices and home offices. It’s perfect for everyday printing needs like letters, reports, memos, and forms.

Because A4 is so widely used, it’s easy to find compatible printers, copiers, and supplies. If your organization mostly handles standard documents and doesn’t require larger prints, A4 is usually the most efficient and cost-effective choice.

A3 vs A4 Printer Size

We cannot talk about types of paper without mentioning the devices that make it possible for these papers to be filled with information. 

A3 Printers

A3 printers are designed to handle both A3 and A4 paper sizes, offering more versatility for businesses with varied printing needs. They’re often multifunction devices that can scan, copy, and fax large documents.

However, their larger footprint means you’ll need more space for installation and maintenance. If your organization produces marketing materials, architectural drawings, or high-volume prints, an A3 printer can be a smart investment.

A4 Printers

A4 printers are compact, energy-efficient, and perfect for everyday printing tasks. They’re easy to set up in small offices or home offices and require less maintenance than A3 models.

If your business focuses on standard documents and doesn’t need to print larger formats, an A4 printer will save you money and space while meeting most needs.

Cost Comparison: Hardware, Consumables, and Energy Use

A3 printers cost 2.5 to 3 times more than A4 models, with average prices of $3,000 versus $1,200. They also use about 40% more energy during typical office use.

Consumables like toner and paper are more expensive for A3 devices, and maintenance costs can add up. If your print volume is low, an A4 printer is usually more budget-friendly.

Performance & Feature Set

A3 printers often come with advanced features like higher print speeds, larger paper capacity, and finishing options such as stapling or folding.

A4 printers are simpler but still offer reliable performance for most business needs. Think about the tasks you handle most often and whether you need extra capabilities.

In the end, it will also depend on your workflow and the needs of your company. 

Speed & Monthly Duty Cycle

The latest A3 multifunction printers can reach up to 70 pages per minute for A4 output, while top A4 printers max out at 65 ppm.

A3 devices also support higher monthly print volumes and larger paper trays, making them better for high-volume printing environments.

Once again, if you are looking for a machine capable of meeting your demanding printing needs due to your high volume of work, then A3 printers are what you need. 

Advanced Capabilities

A3 printers offer advanced features like booklet making, hole punching, and large-capacity paper drawers. These capabilities are essential for businesses that need professional-quality prints or handle a variety of documents.

A4 printers may include some finishing options, but their range is more limited. They fulfill their purpose and serve as a standard.  

Compatibility & Setup Considerations for U.S. Offices

Most U.S. offices now use print drivers that support both A3 and A4 paper sizes, making setup straightforward. Check your office technology and network to ensure compatibility with your chosen printer.

This is when you call in the experts to set everything up for you and get your office running at peak performance. At TVG, you have dedicated experts who will provide you with all their knowledge so you can make the most of your technological resources. 

Decision Checklist: When to Choose A3 Over A4 (and Vice Versa)

If your organization prints more than 500 large-format pages monthly, investing in an A3 printer can save up to 30% compared to outsourcing this kind of service.

For standard documents and lower print volumes, A4 printers are usually the best choice.

When to Choose A3:

• You need to print posters, diagrams, or architectural blueprints.
• Your documents include large tables, graphics, or detailed visuals that wouldn’t fit well on A4.
• You’re producing presentation materials meant to be viewed by a group.
• Your office handles design, drafting, marketing, or engineering work.
• You often create booklets, foldable brochures, or visual aids.
• You want one printer that can handle both A3 and A4 formats.
• You have sufficient space for a larger, higher-capacity printer.

When to Choose A4:

• You mainly print letters, forms, reports, or standard office documents.
• Your printing needs are daily and document-focused, not visual or creative.
• You’re looking for a compact, budget-friendly printer.
• You have limited office or home workspace.
• You require easy storage and standard-sized filing.
• You rarely (or never) need to print anything larger than A4.

Talk to Our Print Specialists Before You Buy

Choosing between A3 and A4 printers depends on your business needs, space, and budget.

When choosing between A3 and A4 paper sizes and printers, the decision ultimately comes down to your specific business requirements, available space, and budget constraints. A4 remains the most practical choice for standard office printing needs, while A3 offers valuable advantages for organizations requiring large-format documents, professional presentations, or high-volume printing capabilities.

For expert guidance on selecting the right printing solution for your organization, TVG Consulting’s print specialists can help evaluate your needs and recommend the most cost-effective option that aligns with your business goals. Contact us today to ensure you make an informed decision that maximizes your investment while meeting your current and future printing requirements.