80gsm vs 120gsm Notebook Paper: Which to Choose | Valenna

80gsm vs 120gsm Notebook Paper

Choose 80gsm for everyday ballpoint and pencil in a slimmer notebook. Choose 120gsm when you use gel pens, highlighters or sketch and want a thicker page with less show-through.

⚖️ The two options side by side

PaperBest withTrade-off
Regular 80gsmBallpoint, pencil, routine notesLighter and more economical, but wetter inks show through more
Thicker 120gsmGel pens, highlighters, sketchingA heavier, thicker book for the same page count
⚠️ Warning: no paper stops every heavy or very wet ink from showing through. If show-through matters to you, test your favourite pen on similar paper before you order.

📚 Paper weight and page count work together

Paper weight and page count together set the finished thickness and weight. A 250-page notebook on 120gsm paper is a substantial book, while 100 pages on 80gsm is light enough for a bag. Pick the two together, and see the buying guide for page choices of 100, 150 or 250.

💡 Tip: if you are unsure, choose 80gsm for school and office notes, and 120gsm for a journal, a gift or anything written with gel pens.

❓ Frequently asked questions

Is 120gsm paper completely show-through free?

No. It reduces show-through, but heavy or very wet ink can still mark through any paper.

Is this the same as the paper on custom notebooks?

Retail personalised notebooks and the custom printing service are separate products. Check the product page you are buying from.

👉 Related guides and next steps