Consider the type of printing you want to do first. Are you going to be printing mainly text or photos or a combination of both.
Paper Weight: Typically measured in grams per square meter (GSM). A higher GSM indicates a thicker, less transparent piece of paper. For day to day printing, paper with a weight of about 80 GSM is typically sufficient. However, for photo printing, we'd advisable using paper that is at least 100 GSM or heavier to ensure better quality and durability.
Paper Finish: Paper finish describes the surface texture of the paper. The main types are matte, glossy and stain, which generally mainly refers to photo paper.
Paper Size: Choose the correct size paper for the job at hand. You'll often be limited with the paper size your printer can handle but for printing photos most inkjet printers can handle a variety of sizes. It's also important to carefully consider the photo or document you're printing. Read our ultimate guide to UK paper sizes.
Pack Size: This one is more for your pocket. Consider how much you are printing. You may only need a pack of 10 sheets of photo paper or 1 ream of copier paper.
Inkjet Paper: Specifically designed for inkjet printers, this type of paper usually features a slightly textured surface to promote uniform absorption of the ink, enhancing print quality.
Laser Paper: Optimised for laser printers, laser paper is generally smooth and coated, facilitating quick and even drying of the toner, which contributes to sharp and smudge-free prints.
Photo Paper: This type of paper is specially crafted for photo printing, capable of producing bright and vibrant images. Available in either glossy or matte finishes, photo paper is made from high-quality stock that absorbs a significant amount of ink to ensure rich, detailed prints.
Recycled Paper: Made from post-consumer waste, recycled paper is an environmentally friendly option that helps reduce waste. It often resembles the smooth, coated texture of standard laser printer paper, making it suitable for a variety of printing needs while supporting sustainable practices.
