Cermify · Error Library · KDP

Cover · C-DPI

Raster cover below print-quality DPI

The cover raster resolution is below ~300 DPI at print size, or DPI metadata is missing, so print output may look soft or pixelated.

Severity
warning
Automatic repair
Manual / guided
Submission impact
KDP: warning
Rule ID
C-DPI
Error: Raster cover below print-quality DPI
Category: Cover
Severity: warning
Auto Repair: Not automatic
Rule ID: C-DPI
Affected: KDP=warning, Apple=unknown, Google=unknown, Kobo=unknown
Check this automatically with Cermify

Why this happens

How platforms treat it

PlatformResult
KDPwarning
Apple Booksunknown
Google Playunknown
Kobounknown

How Cermify detects it

  1. Read pixel dimensions and physical print size (or DPI metadata).
  2. Compute effective DPI at the intended wrap size.
  3. Compare to the print target (300 DPI).
  4. Flag low or missing DPI as C-DPI.

Automatic repair

No auto upscale that claims new detail. Re-export from high-resolution sources at 300 DPI or higher at print size.

Manual fix

  1. Return to vector or high-res masters in Photoshop, Affinity, Illustrator, or Canva print export.
  2. Export at 300 DPI (or higher) at the full-wrap pixel dimensions.
  3. Avoid checking only “resample” without adding real source detail.
  4. Re-upload and confirm DPI meets the target.

Examples

Print covers should target about 300 DPI at final size.

Incorrect

Effective DPI at print size: 150
Target: 300

Correct

Effective DPI at print size: 300+
Pixel dimensions match wrap inches × 300

FAQ

Can I fix DPI by changing metadata only?

No. Changing a DPI tag without more pixels does not add detail. You need a higher-resolution export.

Will KDP reject low DPI?

Often a quality warning rather than a hard stop, but soft covers look unprofessional. Aim for 300 DPI.

What if DPI metadata is missing?

Cermify may still estimate from pixels and inches, or warn that DPI cannot be confirmed—supply a proper print export.

Related errors

References