Qur'an Sizes Explained: How to Choose the Right Mushaf
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A mushaf is a printed copy of the Holy Qur'an. Copies differ in size, script, colour coding, language and binding. This guide explains each of those choices in plain terms, using the measurements of the editions we carry, so you can find the copy that suits how and where it will be read.
Sizes, measured in centimetres
Printers describe a mushaf by its page size in centimetres, width by height. Size names differ between publishers, so the centimetre figure is the one to compare. These are the sizes of the editions in our collection:
| Size (cm) | Size (approx. inches) | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 12 × 17 | 4.7 × 6.7 | Travel, a bag |
| 14 × 20 | 5.5 × 7.9 | Travel, reading in the hand |
| 17 × 24 | 6.7 × 9.4 | Home reading |
| 25 × 35 | 9.8 × 13.8 | Masjid shelf, reading stand |
| 35 × 50 | 13.8 × 19.7 | Masjid shelf, reading stand, larger text |
12 × 17 cm and 14 × 20 cm
These fit in a bag and are light to hold. The text is smaller, so they suit readers with good near vision. The Zipper Quran Compact comes in both sizes, with a full zipper case that covers the pages.
17 × 24 cm
17 × 24 cm is a popular size for reading at home. It is large enough for clear text and small enough to hold in the hand. Most of our editions are available at 17 × 24 cm, including the Arabic Quran – Hardcover, which weighs 815 g.
25 × 35 cm and 35 × 50 cm
These are made for reading at a stand, in a masjid, in a class or by readers who want larger text. They are heavy and are usually kept in one place. The Arabic 99 Names Hardcover Quran is available in all five sizes, from 12 × 17 cm up to 35 × 50 cm.
Selections and single parts
Some books contain a selection rather than the full text. Our collection of six surahs with the du'a for the deceased measures 12 × 8 cm. Single parts (juz') such as Juz' Amma are also printed on their own and are often used for teaching.
Script: Uthmani
Several of our Arabic editions are printed in the Uthmani script, the style of spelling and writing used in the widely printed Madinah-style mushaf. Readers who learned from this style usually find it familiar. Some regions use other script styles, so if a reader learned from a particular print, it helps to check the script before choosing a copy.
Tajweed colour-coded or plain
Tajweed is the set of rules for reciting the Qur'an correctly. A Tajweed mushaf prints certain letters in colour to mark where a rule applies, such as a lengthening or a nasal sound. A key to the colours is normally printed in the book.
- Tajweed colour-coded: helpful for students and anyone still learning the rules. See The Holy Quran with Kaaba – Hardcover (Tajweed) at 17 × 24 cm, or the Large Mushaf Tajweed – Hardcover at 35 × 25 cm, 3.5 cm thick.
- Plain: the text in one colour. Many experienced readers prefer this.
Translation editions
A translation conveys the meaning of the Arabic in another language. It is read alongside the Arabic, or on its own for study. Layouts differ:
- Side by side: Arabic and English on the same page. The Arabic English Quran Hardcover comes in 14 × 20 cm and 17 × 24 cm.
- Three columns: Arabic, transliteration and English. The Holy Quran – English Translation by Yusuf Ali uses this layout.
- English only, with notes: The Quran – English Translation measures 14 × 11 cm, with notes beside the text.
Transliteration spells the Arabic sounds in Latin letters. It can help new readers, though most teachers encourage learning the Arabic letters as well. Juz Amma with Tajweed prints the Arabic, an English translation and a transliteration on the same page.
Cover and binding
Hardcover
A hardcover protects the pages and lasts well with daily use. Some editions, such as the Zipper Quran Compact, have a sewn binding. Covers carry designs such as the 99 Names of Allah or the Kaaba.
Softcover
Lighter and thinner. Often used for single parts, such as our Juz' Amma Softcover at 17 × 24 cm.
Zipper case
A full zip closure keeps the pages covered in a bag.
Leather and velvet
Some editions offer a leather or velvet cover, such as Surah Al-Baqarah Hardcover in maroon.
Matching the copy to the reader
- Daily reading at home: 17 × 24 cm.
- Travel or a bag: 12 × 17 cm or 14 × 20 cm, ideally with a zipper case.
- A masjid shelf or a reading stand: 25 × 35 cm or 35 × 50 cm.
- Learning to recite: a Tajweed colour-coded copy.
- Reading the meaning in English: a translation edition.
- Children and new learners: a single juz', such as Juz' Amma.
Caring for a mushaf
- Keep it on a clean, raised shelf, not on the floor.
- Do not place other objects on top of it.
- Keep it away from damp, heat and direct sunlight, which can warp pages and fade covers.
- Handle it with clean, dry hands.
- Use a reading stand (rahl) for copies of 25 × 35 cm and above so the spine is not strained.
- A cloth cover or zip case protects it in a bag.
For questions of etiquette and rulings, ask a qualified scholar.
See our editions
All of our editions are listed in The Holy Quran collection, with the size, script and binding on each page. Masjids, schools and bookstores that need several copies can write to contact@karemcorporation.com.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common mushaf size?
Among our editions, 17 × 24 cm is the size offered most often. It is a common choice for reading at home.
What does “Uthmani script” mean?
It is the style of writing and spelling used in the widely printed Madinah-style mushaf. Several of our Arabic editions use it, and each product page names the script.
Is a Tajweed copy only for beginners?
No. The colours mark recitation rules, which helps anyone still learning or reviewing them. Some experienced readers prefer a plain copy.