How to Choose the Right Paper Weight for Different Print Jobs

What GSM actually means

GSM stands for grams per square meter — a standardized way to measure paper weight regardless of sheet size. Higher GSM means thicker, sturdier, more substantial-feeling paper; lower GSM means thinner, lighter paper. It's a more precise and universal measurement than the "pound" ratings sometimes used in the US, which can vary confusingly depending on the paper category.

Common weights and what they're used for

Around 75-90 GSM is standard everyday copy/printer paper — fine for regular documents, drafts, and internal printing. Around 100-120 GSM is a step up, often used for resumes, letterheads, or anything that should feel slightly more substantial without being a specialty stock. 160-220 GSM is typical for cardstock-range paper — greeting cards, presentation covers, postcards. Photo paper varies widely but is often in the 200-300+ GSM range, depending on the specific finish and brand, since photo stock needs to be sturdy enough to handle the ink saturation involved.

Check your printer's supported weight range

Every printer has a maximum (and sometimes minimum) supported paper weight, listed in its specifications or manual. Printing on paper heavier than your printer supports is a common and avoidable cause of jams, since the feed mechanism simply isn't designed to grip and move stock that thick reliably. If you're planning to print anything beyond standard copy paper regularly — cardstock, heavy photo paper — check this specification first.

Set the paper type/weight in your print settings

Beyond just loading the right physical paper, set the corresponding paper type in your print dialog (not just the generic "Plain Paper" default) whenever you're using something heavier or specialty. This tells the printer to adjust feed pressure and sometimes heat/drying settings appropriately, which both improves output quality and reduces jam risk on heavier stock.

Using a bypass or manual feed tray for heavy stock

Many printers, especially laser models, have a separate manual feed slot or bypass tray specifically designed for heavier or non-standard paper that the main tray isn't built to handle reliably. If your printer has one and you're working with cardstock or heavy specialty paper, using this dedicated path is generally more reliable than forcing it through the main tray.