Photocopy Paper Guide: GSM, Size and Which Paper to Buy
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Paper is the one thing every printer user keeps buying. It looks simple, but the labels on the pack, such as 70 GSM, A4 and "brightness", can be confusing. Pick the wrong paper and you may get jams, see-through pages on double-sided prints or faded-looking documents.
This guide explains what the labels mean, which paper suits which printer, and how to work out how much you need.
The short answer
- Everyday printing and copying: A4, 75 GSM paper is the common choice.
- Double-sided printing and a better feel: choose 80 GSM, which is slightly thicker and shows less through the page.
- Budget bulk printing of simple drafts: 70 GSM can do the job, but expect more see-through.
- Presentations or proposals: a heavier paper, such as 90 GSM or more, feels more professional.
- Photos: use proper photo paper, not copier paper.
What does GSM mean?
GSM stands for grams per square metre. It tells you how heavy the paper is, which is a good guide to how thick it feels.
| GSM | What it's like | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 70 GSM | Thin and light | Drafts and internal copies |
| 75 GSM | The common everyday weight | General office printing and photocopying |
| 80 GSM | Slightly thicker and firmer | Double-sided printing, documents handed to others |
| 90 GSM and above | Thick, heavier feel | Reports, proposals, presentations |
Heavier paper is stronger and shows less through the page, but costs more and is not always needed. Check the maximum paper weight your printer accepts in its specifications.
Paper sizes
| Size | Dimensions | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| A4 | 210 × 297 mm | The standard office size in India |
| A3 | 297 × 420 mm | Larger drawings, posters, wide spreadsheets |
| Legal | about 216 × 330 mm | Some legal and government documents |
Most home and small-office printers handle A4. Check your printer's maximum paper size before buying anything larger, because an A4 printer can't print on A3.
Brightness and whiteness
Some packs list a brightness or whiteness figure, sometimes as a percentage and sometimes as a "CIE" value. A higher number means whiter paper, which can make colours and black text look crisper.
For everyday documents, you don't need to chase the highest number. Whiteness matters more for presentations, brochures and colour printing.
Reams, bundles and cartons
- Ream: a pack of paper, typically 500 sheets.
- Carton or box: usually several reams. Five reams per carton is common, though some brands pack more.
- Always check the pack. Some smaller packs hold fewer sheets.
How much paper do you need?
Reams per month = pages per month ÷ 500
If you print double-sided, divide the number of pages by two first.
Example (sample numbers only): an office printing 3,000 pages a month needs about 6 reams. If half of those pages are printed double-sided, it needs fewer.
Which paper for which printer?
- Laser printers and photocopiers: use paper marked for copiers and laser printers. Standard 75 or 80 GSM copier paper works well.
- Inkjet and ink tank printers: standard copier paper is fine for everyday documents. Pages with heavy colour or graphics can bleed or wrinkle on thin paper, so 75 to 80 GSM is a safer choice than 70.
- Photos and glossy prints: use photo paper made for your printer type. Copier paper won't give good results.
Check your printer's manual for supported paper types and weights.
Double-sided printing
For double-sided printing, choose 80 GSM or heavier. On thinner paper, the print on one side can show through to the other, which makes pages harder to read.
If your printer doesn't print double-sided automatically, you can flip the pages by hand. Printing double-sided halves your paper use, so it's worth setting up. Our guide to choosing a multifunction printer explains automatic duplex.
Why paper jams happen
Most jams come down to the paper, not the printer.
- Damp or curled paper, from poor storage
- Overfilled trays
- Mixed sizes or types in the same tray
- Wrong weight for the printer
- Dusty paper or rollers
- Paper loaded at an angle
To reduce jams: fan the stack before loading it, load fresh dry paper, line the guides against the edges, and don't overfill the tray. If jams keep happening, read our guide to fixing a printer that won't print.
How to store paper
- Keep reams flat and in their wrapper until you use them.
- Store in a dry place, away from damp, heat and direct sunlight.
- Don't leave paper in the printer tray for weeks. Take out what you won't use.
- Rotate your stock, so the oldest paper is used first.
How to save paper
- Print double-sided whenever you can.
- Print two or more pages per sheet for drafts and notes.
- Preview before printing to avoid wasted pages.
- Use draft mode for internal documents.
- Avoid printing emails and web pages unless you need them.
Buying paper for an office
- Estimate your monthly use with the formula above.
- Buy by the carton to avoid running out and reorder at a set level, such as when you have one month left.
- Standardise on one type of paper, so printers behave consistently.
- Order paper with your toner and other supplies in one go. Our guide to buying office supplies in bulk explains how, and our office stationery checklist helps you plan quantities.
For bulk pricing and GST invoices, send your requirement on our Bulk Orders and B2B enquiry page.
Shop paper and printing supplies
Browse our photocopy paper, printers, toner cartridges and ink bottles and cartridges. To compare running costs, see our guide to printer running cost.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 70, 75 and 80 GSM paper?
Mostly weight and thickness. Higher GSM paper is thicker and shows less through the page.
Is 75 GSM paper good enough?
Yes, for everyday printing and copying. Choose 80 GSM for double-sided prints.
How many sheets are in a ream?
Typically 500, but check the pack.
Can I use copier paper in an inkjet or ink tank printer?
Yes, for everyday documents. Use photo paper for photos.
Why does my paper keep jamming?
Common causes are damp or curled paper, an overfilled tray, mixed paper types or the wrong paper weight.
Is A4 the standard paper size in India?
Yes, A4 is the standard for most offices and homes.
Are the products on WERY genuine?
Yes. WERY sells 100% genuine products with official brand warranty.