Different tools are designed with specific functions in mind. So, while you could tighten a screw with the blade of a knife, or the corner of a credit card, using an actual screwdriver is both easier and more efficient. And the margin isn’t close.
Similarly, you certainly can print photos or marketing materials on everyday copy paper, but they won’t look how you want them to because regular copy paper isn’t designed for high-quality photos. This is why it’s so important to pick the right type of paper for your print job.
There are a few factors to consider before choosing the right paper for your printing job, like size, desired quality, and presentation. With this in mind, let’s look at five of the most common printer paper types and where they excel.
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The 3 Paper Qualities to Consider
There are three main qualities of printer paper to keep in mind when differentiating between the various types: weight, finish, and brightness.
Before jumping into the different types of printer paper, let’s explore these three qualities with a little more depth.
Paper Weight
Paper weight refers to the thickness and sturdiness of the paper. It is measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). Depending on the weight, paper is then categorized as lightweight, standard, or heavyweight. Understanding paper weight is crucial as it impacts the overall durability and feel of the printed material.
- Lightweight Paper: Ranges from 30-70 pounds per ream and is commonly used for everyday printing needs such as documents and drafts.
- Standard or Text Weight Paper: Typically falls within the 70-100 pounds per ream range and is suitable for a wide range of printing applications, including brochures and flyers.
- Heavyweight or Cardstock: Beyond 100 pounds per ream, heavyweight paper is thick and sturdy, making it ideal for items like business cards, invitations, and greeting cards.
Choosing the right paper weight depends on the type of document you are printing and the level of durability required.
The Finish
Paper finish refers to the surface texture of the paper. Different finishes impact the look and feel of the printed material. There are several types of finishes, but the most common ones include:
- Matte Finish: Has a smooth, non-reflective surface, making it ideal for text-heavy documents. It reduces glare but may result in less vibrant colors compared to glossy finishes.
- Glossy Finish: Provides a shiny and reflective surface, enhancing color saturation and sharpness. It is often preferred for photo printing and marketing materials.
- Satin or Semi-Gloss Finish: Strikes a balance between matte and glossy, offering some shine while minimizing glare. Suitable for a variety of printing purposes.
The finish of the paper can drastically change both the aesthetic and feel of the final print job and is an important consideration for documents that need to have a higher presentation value.
Brightness
Finally, brightness refers to the amount of light reflected by the paper's surface. It is measured on a scale of 0 to 100, with higher values indicating a brighter paper. Brightness is a critical factor in determining the contrast and vividness of printed images and text.
- High Brightness (90-100): Provides a crisp and vibrant appearance, making it suitable for professional documents, presentations, and promotional materials.
- Standard Brightness (80-89): Offers a balanced look and is commonly used for everyday printing needs.
- Low Brightness (70-79): Creates a softer, more muted look, often preferred for certain artistic or vintage-style prints.
Choosing the right brightness level depends on the visual impact you want to achieve in your printed materials.
The 5 Most Common Types of Printer Paper
Taking the spectrums of paper weight, finish, and brightness into account, there are five common printer paper varieties that suit most print jobs.
