14 Jul Choosing the Right Printer Paper for Your Needs
When it comes to choosing a printer, there’s plenty of factors to consider, but did you know that the type of paper you choose is just as important as the printer itself? Depending on which printer you choose for your office, you’ll need varying types of paper to produce the best quality print jobs possible. At Arizona Business Equipment, we’re here to ensure that local Tucson businesses get the most out of their printers, and that means sharing our tips for choosing the right printer paper for your needs.
How Paper Weight Affect Print Jobs
Paper weight refers to the thickness of the paper and is measured in GSM (grams per square meter). Generally, standard paper of 90 – 120 GSM is ideal for everyday printing like memos and drafts, while heavier paper feels more professional and will work better for official letters and presentations. Cardstock (usually 350 GSM and above) is great for business cards, greeting cards, or any printing job that requires a sturdier final product.
Consider Paper Brightness
Paper brightness impacts the vibrancy of the colors and contrasts in your printouts. Some paper will be a bright, vibrant white, while other types may be more muted or even off-white. Brightness levels are measured on a scale of 1 to 100, with most standard copy paper having a rating between 80 and 100. If your printed materials need to look their best, opt for a higher brightness level. Lower brightness levels are often appropriate for drafts or other internal memos.
Choose the Right Finish
Finish refers to the top coating of a piece of paper, and it can significantly influence the appearance of your printouts. There are a few different finish options to consider, such as matte, glossy, and satin. A matte finish will reduce glare from overhead lights and make the printouts easier to read, which is why most books or text-heavy products use matte paper. A glossy finish does the opposite—it will make colors look more saturated and increase contrast.
Understand Paper Size
Choosing the right paper size is crucial, particularly for specialized printing jobs. Standard letter size (8.5 x 11 inches) is the standard used for most printing jobs, from memos to drafts to office communications. Specialized marketing materials, however, often need a bigger size to grab customers’ attention.
Try Environmentally Friendly Options
If sustainability is a priority for your business, try looking at environmentally friendly paper options. Look for paper that is recycled or FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified. This means the paper is sourced from responsibly managed forests. Also, look for printer paper that is processed without chlorine, which reduces harmful waste.
Contact Arizona Business Equipment Today!
At Arizona Business Equipment, we’re Tucson’s top printer experts. If you’re not sure which type of paper is best for your printer, or you need help choosing a printer in the first place, we’re here to help you find the right choice. And with our printer leasing program, it’s never been easier to get the most advanced printers on the market for a fraction of the upfront cost. Contact us today to get started!