A5 vs A4 Flyer Printing: Which Size Converts Better for Local Businesses

⏱️ Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Intro Hook: Picking the Perfect Flyer Size for Your Business

If you’re a local business owner, you’ve probably wondered whether A5 or A4 flyers make a bigger impact. It’s not just about size; it’s about how your message lands and whether it actually encourages people to take action. Let’s explore how these two popular flyer sizes stack up, so you can choose the best fit for your next print run.

⏱️ Reading time: 7 minutes · Updated for 2025 · UK Printing Guide

Understanding the Basics: What’s the Difference Between A5 and A4 Flyers?

On paper, the difference between A5 and A4 flyers might seem straightforward: A5 flyers measure 148 x 210mm, exactly half the size of A4 flyers at 210 x 297mm. But beyond the numbers, this size gap can influence how your flyer is received and how effectively it communicates your business’s message. A4 flyers, with their larger canvas, offer ample space for detailed information, while A5 flyers are all about compactness and quick grabs. Both have their place, depending on what you want to say and who you’re trying to reach.

When A5 Flyers Shine

• Cost-effective: Printing and mailing A5 flyers generally costs less, which is a real consideration if you’re on a tight marketing budget. For example, a local charity distributing thousands of flyers door-to-door might find A5 the only feasible option.
• Easy to hand out: Their smaller size fits comfortably in the hand, making them perfect for events, street marketing, or slipping into customers’ shopping bags. If you’ve ever been handed a small flyer on a busy high street, it was probably A5.
• Great for quick messages: When you want to highlight a single offer, a limited-time discount, or a simple call to action, A5 flyers deliver that punch without overwhelming your audience. Think of a coffee shop promoting a morning deal or a gym advertising a free trial class.

Why Choose A4 Flyers?

• More room for details: If your flyer needs to include menus, pricing, product lists, or detailed instructions, A4’s extra space makes a big difference. For instance, a local restaurant launching a new seasonal menu will benefit from the additional room to showcase dishes and descriptions.
• Higher perceived value: Larger flyers tend to feel more substantial, which can help your business stand out when placed on noticeboards or included in shopping bags. They often seem more professional, making them suitable for brands wanting to convey quality and seriousness.
• Flexible design options: The bigger canvas lets you play with layouts, images, and typography without cramming. This freedom can be critical if your flyer’s design needs to be visually rich or artistic, such as for a gallery opening or a theatre event.

Helpful Tips for Maximising Your Flyer Impact

1. Know Your Audience and Distribution Method

Understanding where and how your flyers will be distributed shapes the size choice. If you’re handing them out on busy streets or stuffing them into shopping bags, A5’s compact size is a natural fit. On the other hand, if your audience is likely to read carefully—say, at a community centre or via direct mail—A4’s space for detail might be the better bet. It’s worth considering who will hold your flyer and how much time they’ll spend with it.

2. Keep Design Clean and Focused

Regardless of size, clutter is your enemy. Resist the urge to cram every detail or offer onto one flyer. White space isn’t just empty—it’s a design tool that helps your message breathe and your call to action stand out. Many clients get tempted to include multiple promotions or tiny disclaimers, but this can confuse readers rather than encourage them to act.

3. Choose the Right Paper Stock

The feel of your flyer can say a lot about your brand. A matte 170gsm stock often strikes a nice balance—professional but approachable—while a glossy 250gsm can lend a premium vibe, great for luxury products or services. If you’re unsure, consulting your printer can help avoid costly mistakes. For instance, a local boutique might opt for a heavier, glossy stock to reflect their high-end image, whereas a community event might stick with lighter, matte paper for budget reasons.

4. Test and Track Performance

Sometimes, the best way to know what works is to test both sizes. Run a small batch of A5 and A4 flyers in different parts of your local area and compare the results. Using unique promo codes or dedicated URLs on each flyer makes it easier to track which version drives more engagement or sales. This data-driven approach can save money and improve your next campaign.

5. Don’t Forget Eco-Friendly Options

More consumers these days are conscious about sustainability. Offering flyers printed on recycled paper can not only reduce environmental impact but also boost your brand’s reputation. Luckily, recycled stocks are available for both A5 and A4 sizes and often look just as good as conventional options. A local bookstore, for example, might highlight their use of recycled flyers as part of their green ethos.

Short Case-Style Example: Local Cafe Boosts Footfall with A5 Flyers

Take, for instance, a small café in a bustling town centre that wanted to promote its new lunch menu. They opted for A5 flyers because these were easy to distribute in nearby office buildings and community hubs. The flyer featured a bold headline, enticing photos of the lunch specials, and a clear lunchtime offer with a redeemable code. This straightforward, compact design suited their busy target audience—professionals looking for a quick, tasty meal.

Within a few weeks, the café noticed a steady increase in lunchtime visits, suggesting the flyer had done its job well. Later, when the same café rolled out a seasonal menu with many dishes and prices, they switched to A4 flyers. The larger format allowed them to showcase multiple options clearly, which worked better for customers who liked to browse before deciding.

Conclusion: Which Flyer Size Should You Go For?

Choosing between A5 and A4 flyers ultimately hinges on your message, budget, and how you plan to connect with your audience. If your goal is to keep things simple, cost-effective, and easy to distribute, A5 flyers often hit the mark. On the other hand, if you need space to tell a more detailed story or showcase products and prices, A4 is a solid choice that commands more attention.

At Newstyle Print, we’ve worked with hundreds of local businesses across the UK, so we’re familiar with the subtle factors that can tip the balance. It’s rarely just about size — it’s how you tailor your flyer to your audience and your brand.

Not sure where to start? Feel free to reach out to Newstyle Print for advice. We’re happy to review your artwork for free and help you pick the right paper and finish. A clear, no-pressure quote is just a conversation away.

If you’d like advice on printing, we’re always happy to help — free artwork check included.

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FAQ

Which flyer size is better for local events?

A5 flyers are usually easier to hand out at events due to their compact size, but if you need space for detailed information, A4 might work better.

Can I use both A5 and A4 flyers in one campaign?

Absolutely. Using both sizes can target different audiences or purposes, such as quick handouts (A5) and detailed mailers (A4).

What paper weight is best for flyers?

Most customers opt for 130gsm to 170gsm for flyers, balancing quality and cost. For a premium feel, 250gsm with a gloss or matte finish works well.

How do I make sure my flyer design prints correctly?

Send your artwork to Newstyle Print for a free check. We’ll look for issues like bleed, resolution, and colour accuracy to avoid surprises.

Are recycled paper options available for flyers?

Yes, Newstyle Print offers an eco-friendly range of recycled stocks that look and feel great without compromising quality.

Does flyer size affect printing cost?

Generally, A5 flyers cost less due to smaller paper size and lower postage, but design choices and volume also influence overall cost.

What’s the best way to track flyer campaign success?

Include unique promo codes, QR codes, or specific URLs to measure responses and see which flyer size performs best.

Updated on 26 December 2025

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