What is the best fax resolution for everyday documents?

Fine resolution (204 x 196 DPI) is the best default for most documents. It's sharp enough for small fonts and handwriting while keeping transmission times reasonable. Only drop to Standard for large batch faxes of simple typed text.

Does higher fax resolution cost more to send?

On traditional fax machines using phone lines, yes — higher resolution means longer transmission time, which can increase long-distance charges. With online fax services like [mFax](https://mfax.to), resolution doesn't affect cost because documents are transmitted over the internet.

What DPI should I scan documents at before faxing?

Scan at 300 DPI in Black & White mode for the best results. This gives the fax service enough detail to work with, regardless of the final transmission resolution. Scanning higher than 300 DPI adds file size without improving fax quality.

Do online fax services use the same resolution as fax machines?

Online fax services typically transmit at 200 DPI (Fine equivalent), which is the sweet spot for quality and speed. Since you upload a digital file — not a scanned copy — the result is usually sharper than a physical fax machine at the same resolution.

Why does my fax look fine on screen but blurry when received?

The most common cause is sending at Standard resolution (204 x 98 DPI), which drops half the vertical detail. Switch to Fine or Superfine before sending. For more fixes, see our guide on [why faxes come out blurry](/blog/why-is-my-fax-blurry/).

Fax Resolution Settings: Standard, Fine & Superfine Explained

Fax resolution determines whether your document arrives crisp or blurry. Learn the DPI specs for Standard, Fine, and Superfine — plus which setting to use for text, handwriting, and detailed graphics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best fax resolution for everyday documents?: Fine resolution (204 x 196 DPI) is the best default for most documents. It's sharp enough for small fonts and handwriting while keeping transmission times reasonable. Only drop to Standard for large batch faxes of simple typed text.
Does higher fax resolution cost more to send?: On traditional fax machines using phone lines, yes — higher resolution means longer transmission time, which can increase long-distance charges. With online fax services like [mFax](https://mfax.to), resolution doesn't affect cost because documents are transmitted over the internet.
What DPI should I scan documents at before faxing?: Scan at 300 DPI in Black & White mode for the best results. This gives the fax service enough detail to work with, regardless of the final transmission resolution. Scanning higher than 300 DPI adds file size without improving fax quality.
Do online fax services use the same resolution as fax machines?: Online fax services typically transmit at 200 DPI (Fine equivalent), which is the sweet spot for quality and speed. Since you upload a digital file — not a scanned copy — the result is usually sharper than a physical fax machine at the same resolution.
Why does my fax look fine on screen but blurry when received?: The most common cause is sending at Standard resolution (204 x 98 DPI), which drops half the vertical detail. Switch to Fine or Superfine before sending. For more fixes, see our guide on [why faxes come out blurry](/blog/why-is-my-fax-blurry/).