Printer Paper Weight: Does it Affect Printing?
When choosing the right paper for your print job, one of the most often misunderstood options is the printer paper weight. Choosing the right paper weight for your print needs can affect the quality of your print, but maybe not in the way you think. Read on to learn more about the different paper weights and how to select the right one for your next print project.
What Exactly is Printer Paper Weight?
The weight of printer paper refers quite literally to how much a certain type of paper weighs. Paper weight is measured as “grams per square meter” or gsm. Typically, the higher the gsm of a type of paper, the thicker and sturdier that paper will be.
Does Printer Paper Weight Affect Print Quality?
Strictly speaking, the weight of printer paper doesn’t affect the quality of the prints in terms of detail and color, but it does affect the durability of the print.
The exception to this is if you try to print on a heavier paper weight than a printer is designed to handle, or on the wrong setting. This could cause mechanical issues that will affect the quality of the print if the machine is able to complete the print at all.
What To Consider When Choosing a Paper Weight
There are a few factors that influence what paper weight will be best for each printing job. These include:
- Durability: How long do you need your prints to last? Are they intended to go on display for years, or do you just need something that’s easy to roll or fold?
- Finishes: Not all finishes are available in all paper weights. If you’re seeking a specific paper finish, such as metallic or glossy, this may dictate the weight range available for your prints. This is especially true for premium features like textures, often only available in higher weight ranges.
- Cost: Typically, the heavier the paper, the more expensive it will be. Factor in how much durability you need from your print vs. how much you’re willing to spend.
What are the Best Paper Weights for Printing Digital Art?
Choosing the right paper weight for digital art prints will depend on the size and desired durability of your final print, as well as your budget. Thinner papers are great for large orders of affordable prints, while artists looking for gallery-quality hangings might want to opt for heavier stocks.
Here are some example weight ranges for different digital art prints:
Posters - 110gsm to 140gsm
Poster quality paper weight is a little bit thicker than your standard household paper weight, giving it more durability for hanging while still remaining very flexible. This is also one of the most affordable weights for printing digital art.
Art Prints- 150gsm to 200gsm
This is typically the minimum range for standard art prints, especially for artists looking to sell their artwork. This weight is sturdier than poster paper but still has a bit of a bend to it.
High-End Art Prints- 300gsm and above
For artists who want prints that look and feel more similar to original artwork, paper weights over 300gsm provide the long-lasting durability you need. This is thick paper for printing images as large as you might desire. Papers in this weight range also often include premium features like textures that simulate canvas and other traditional art surfaces, adding dimension to your prints.
What are the Best Paper Weights for Original Art Scans?
The best paper weights for creating high-quality reproductions of your original artwork from scans are similar to those that work well for digital artists. Many artists tend to prefer heavier paper weights for printing these reproductions so they can emulate the premium quality of their originals.
What are the Best Photo Paper Weights?
Choosing the best weight for photos also depends on what the final function of the print will be. Thinner, cheaper photo papers are great for glossy handouts, while thicker, more expensive papers are perfect for keepsake prints that will hang on walls for years to come.
Here are a few examples of idea weight ranges for different photo uses:
Brochures, Flyers, Pamphlets- 150gsm to 200gsm
Ultra lightweight photo paper is best for when you’re printing glossy images that don’t need to have long-lasting durability. This weight range is the most affordable and easy to fold and handle, making it perfect for pamphlets and other distribution materials.
Family Photos, Digital Artwork, Greeting Cards- 200gsm to 300gsm
This midrange photo paper weight is ideal for most traditional photo printing. It’s still relatively affordable while offering extra durability to make sure your photos last.
Fine Art Photography, Extra-Large Photo Prints- 300gsm and above
Photo paper over 300gsm is a heavy-weight paper almost exclusively used for professional printing purposes. These are the most expensive but most durable options, making them ideal for oversized prints where you want both exceptional detail and exceptional durability.