DL Brochures vs A4 Trifolds: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Use?

Brochures are a staple of business print marketing — and the confusion between DL brochures, trifolds, bifolds and flats is one of the most common conversations we have at ABC Print Shop. Here is the clear explanation.

What Is a DL Brochure?

DL stands for Dimension Lengthwise, a format that measures 99mm x 210mm when closed. A DL brochure is typically created by folding an A4 sheet into thirds — this is also why it is sometimes called a trifold. The result is a six-panel brochure (three panels on each side) that fits perfectly in a standard DL envelope and in most countertop brochure racks.

So technically, a DL trifold brochure and an A4 trifold brochure are the same thing — an A4 sheet folded into thirds, resulting in a DL-sized finished piece.

What Is an A4 Bifold Brochure?

An A4 bifold is an A4 sheet folded once down the middle, resulting in a four-page A5-sized brochure. These are commonly used for service menus, corporate capability statements, product introductions and event programmes. They have more visual space per panel than a trifold and suit layouts with more photography or detailed content.

What Is an A3 Bifold?

An A3 bifold is a larger A3 sheet folded once to create a four-page A4-sized brochure. This format is popular for annual reports, product catalogues, restaurant menus and detailed service guides where more space is needed.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a DL trifold (A4 folded to DL) when you want a brochure that fits in display racks, mailing envelopes and jacket pockets. It is the most versatile brochure format and suits businesses that distribute materials through multiple channels including reception areas, event bags and mail campaigns.

Choose an A4 bifold when you have more content, more imagery or a more structured two-column layout to present. It works particularly well as a leave-behind after a client meeting or as an insert in a welcome pack.

Choose an A3 bifold when you need even more space — for a full menu, a product range, a detailed event schedule or a premium capability document.

Getting Your Brochure Printed in Sydney

ABC Print Shop prints all brochure formats with fast turnaround, including same-day options across Sydney for print-ready orders. If you need artwork created, our in-house design team can build your brochure from scratch at 20 percent off when you print with us.