Paper Weight (GSM) Explained: How to Choose the Right Paper

What Does GSM Actually Mean?

Pick up a ream of paper and you'll usually see a number like "80gsm" printed on the wrapper. GSM stands for grams per square meter — literally the weight of one square meter of that paper. The higher the number, the heavier and generally thicker the sheet.

One thing worth clearing up: GSM isn't quite the same as thickness. Two papers with an identical GSM can still feel different in your hand, because how tightly the fibers are packed (density) also plays a role.

Where Standard Paper Sizes Actually Came From

A fact most people never think about: the A4, A3, and other "A-series" sizes we use every day trace back to 1922, when German engineer Walter Porstmann formalized the DIN 476 standard — now the international ISO 216. Each size keeps the same 1:√2 ratio, so folding a sheet in half always produces a smaller sheet with the exact same proportions.

The Most Common Weights and What They're For

- 70-75gsm — lightweight paper, used for newsprint and high-volume printing
- 80gsm — the everyday office/copy paper standard
- 90-100gsm — presentations and higher-quality color printing
- 120-180gsm — flyers and brochures
- 200-300gsm+ — business cards, postcards, and cover stock

How to Choose the Right Weight

- Everyday office printing — 80gsm covers almost everything
- Documents or materials going to clients — step up to 90-100gsm for a noticeably better feel
- Marketing materials, menus, certificates — 160-250gsm
- Business cards — 250-350gsm

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best paper weight for an office printer?
Standard 80gsm works with virtually every printer and copier on the market.

Why does heavier paper cost more?
More grams per square meter means more raw fiber goes into every sheet, which raises the production cost.

How do I know what my printer supports?
Check its spec sheet — most standard office printers handle up to 200-220gsm, while some laser models accept heavier stock through a manual feed tray.

Not sure which weight fits your project? Our paper range covers every standard weight, imported directly from nine countries.