Plant & Animal Cell Diagrams
Free printable labeled cell diagrams of a plant cell and an animal cell — clear, colorful and accurate. High-resolution PDF and PNG sized for Letter paper.
Free printable labeled cell diagrams of a plant cell and an animal cell — clear, colorful and accurate. High-resolution PDF and PNG sized for Letter paper. Each is a clear, colorful labeled illustration — free, and sized for Letter paper.
Cell organelles and what they do
Every cell is built from tiny structures called organelles, each with its own job. Here is what each part does and whether it is found in plant cells, animal cells, or both:
| Organelle | Plant | Animal | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cell wall | ✓ | — | A rigid outer layer that gives the plant cell its shape and support. |
| Cell membrane | ✓ | ✓ | A thin outer boundary that controls what enters and leaves the cell. |
| Cytoplasm | ✓ | ✓ | The jelly-like fluid that fills the cell and holds the organelles. |
| Nucleus | ✓ | ✓ | The control center that stores the cell's DNA and directs its activities. |
| Nucleolus | ✓ | ✓ | A small body inside the nucleus that makes ribosomes. |
| Chloroplast | ✓ | — | Captures sunlight to make food through photosynthesis; contains green chlorophyll. |
| Mitochondria | ✓ | ✓ | Releases energy from food — often called the powerhouse of the cell. |
| Vacuole | ✓ | ✓ | Stores water, food and waste. Plant cells have one large central vacuole. |
| Endoplasmic reticulum | ✓ | ✓ | A network of tubes that makes and moves proteins and lipids around the cell. |
| Golgi apparatus | ✓ | ✓ | Packages and ships proteins to where they are needed. |
| Ribosomes | ✓ | ✓ | Tiny structures that build proteins. |
| Lysosome | — | ✓ | Breaks down waste and worn-out cell parts (mainly in animal cells). |
| Centrioles | — | ✓ | Help the animal cell divide into two. |
How to print
Choose Download PDF for a ready-to-print file that fits US Letter paper (8.5 × 11") in landscape, or Download PNG for the high-resolution image.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cell diagram?
A cell diagram is a labeled drawing showing the parts (organelles) of a cell and where they sit. It helps students learn what each part is called and what it does.
What is the difference between plant and animal cells?
Both have a cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, mitochondria and ribosomes. Plant cells also have a rigid cell wall, chloroplasts for photosynthesis, and one large central vacuole. Animal cells are usually rounder and have lysosomes and centrioles instead.
What paper size should I print this on?
The diagram is sized for standard US Letter paper (8.5 × 11") in landscape orientation. Use "Download PDF" for a print-ready file that fits the page automatically.