Looking for a poster frame that accommodates both matted and unmatted prints? This guide highlights five matte-capable frames that fit commonly sized posters and photos, especially 24×36 and 20×30. Each option is chosen for versatility, ease of use, and durable construction. Best for students decorating dorm rooms, home offices, or living spaces, and for art lovers who rotate prints often.
| Product | Mat Capability | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chrspk 24×36 Poster Frame, Black Wood Frame with 20×30 Mat | 20×30 mat; 24×36 without mat | Versatile wall displays; frequent matting changes | Includes mat; three-pack |
| PEALSN 24×36 Poster Frame, Display Pictures 20×30 with Mat | 20×30 with mat; 24×36 without mat | Home or dorm rooms needing easy rotation | Sturdy MDF backing; lightweight |
| Americanflat 28×40 Poster Frame – Matted to 24×36 | Mat opening 23.5×35.5 inches; fits 24×36 with mat | Statement wall art in living spaces | Engineered wood; plexiglass |
| upsimples 24×36 Poster Frame, Black | 24×36 without mat; 20×30 with mat | Popular poster sizes; easy swaps | One-pack; simple mounting |
| Hongkee 24×36 Poster Frame Set of 2 | Fits 24×36 no mat; 20×30 with mat | Two-frame option for coordinated galleries | Rustic wood feel; HD plexiglass |
Chrspk 24×36 Poster Frame, Black Wood Frame with 20×30 Mat
The Chrspk frame uses an engineered wood construction with a clean, modern profile. It works as a 24×36 display without the mat, or as a 20×30 display when the included mat is used. Horizontal or vertical hanging is supported by built-in multidirectional hooks, and swivel tabs allow quick back access for changing prints. This makes it ideal for designers and hobbyists who rotate wall art regularly. Best for: dorms, home offices, or living spaces where both larger posters and smaller mat-ready prints appear. Limitation: if you frequently swap, the swivel tabs may require occasional adjustment to keep prints securely centered.
PEALSN 24×36 Poster Frame with Mat
The PEALSN frame is designed to accommodate both a 20×30 poster with mat and a 24×36 poster without the mat. Its MDF backing provides sturdy support, and the clear front panel protects the artwork while preserving clarity. Best for: students and offices needing simple, adjustable display options. Better for long-term displays where occasional poster swaps occur. Caution: MDF backing can be less resistant to warping in high humidity compared to sealed wood frames.
Americanflat 28×40 Poster Frame – Matted to 24×36
This frame uses engineered wood with a black woodgrain-inspired finish and plexiglass for a polished display. It is designed to show 28×40 photos or 24×36 photos with mat (actual mat size: 23.5×35.5″). It includes hanging hardware for vertical and horizontal use, making it a flexible choice for living rooms, hallways, or offices. Best for: those who want a larger frame with a matte option to showcase a prominent piece. Limitation: overall frame size requires more wall space than smaller options.
upsimples 18×24 Picture Frame (Matting Compatible)
The upsimple frame supports double-size display: 18×24 without mat or 16×20 with a mat, giving flexibility for smaller prints or posters. It uses a spring-type backing for easy removal and can be mounted horizontally or vertically. Best for: compact spaces like desks, small offices, or entryways. Limitation: not ideal for standard 24×36 posters unless matting is used.
upsimples 24×36 Poster Frame
This 24×36 frame supports 20×30 posters with a mat or 24×36 without a mat, with a design that keeps photos secure by making the display area slightly smaller than the image size. It includes simple mounting for vertical or horizontal alignment. Best for: museums or classrooms needing routine frame swaps while maintaining a clean look. Caution: color and finish may vary slightly between batches.
Buying Guide
What size should you choose with a mat? If you want a larger poster visible without crowding, pick a frame that supports the poster size without the mat. If you prefer a more refined look and need to protect art with a mat, choose a frame that clearly specifies a larger print size with a compatible mat opening.
Matting vs. no mat: Mats add depth and can help center artwork, but they reduce the visible print area. If you display smaller prints, a mat can prevent glare from edges and keep the image secure. For large posters, no mat shows more of the print and can feel bolder in a space.
Material considerations: Engineered wood offers a clean look with durability, while MDF with a strong backing provides budget-friendly stability. Plexiglass is safer than glass in busy areas. When humidity varies, sealed wood or high-quality plexiglass helps prevent warping and moisture damage.
Orientation and mounting: Frames with multidirectional hooks enable portrait or landscape displays. Quick-access backings and swivel tabs simplify frequent changes, which is ideal for rotating art, photos, or certificates.
Wall space and room style: Larger frames require more wall space and suit open-plan areas; narrow profiles work well in tight corridors or shelves. Consider the frame’s finish—black woodgrain or rustic wood—to match existing décor.
FAQ
- Do these frames support both matting and unmatted posters? Yes. Most listed frames offer 20×30 or 24×36 display options with or without a mat.
- Which frame is best for frequent poster changes? Frames with swivel tabs and multidirectional hooks, such as Chrspk, are designed for easy swapping.
- Can I hang frames vertically and horizontally? Yes. All models shown provide vertical and horizontal mounting options.
- Will the mat opening suit 24×36 posters? Some frames provide a slightly smaller mat opening to secure the fit. Check the mat size details in each product description.
- Is plexiglass safe for households with kids? Yes. Plexiglass is shatter-resistant and safer than traditional glass.
- Which frame offers the best value for a gallery wall? A two-pack or three-pack option, like Hongkee or Chrspk, can provide a cohesive look at a lower per-frame cost.