GSM means grams per square metre: how much one square metre of the material weighs. It describes weight, not a guaranteed thickness. Use this chart as a practical starting guide.
| Weight | Typical use | Check before buying |
|---|---|---|
| 80gsm copy paper | Office documents, worksheets, invoices, everyday printing | A4 or A3, brand, ream quantity |
| 100 to 130gsm | Presentations, inserts, menus, lightweight flyers | Inkjet or laser compatibility, coated sides, finish |
| 160gsm cardstock | Certificates, greeting cards, craft projects, light covers | Your printer's supported weight |
| 250 to 300gsm | Invitations, menus, postcards, covers | Paper-path bends, scoring before folding |
| 350gsm | Business cards, firm invitations, notebook covers | Whether the printer and tray accept heavy board |
| 620 to 1000gsm board | Book covers, mounts, displays, packaging structures | Usually cut, mounted or bound, not fed through a home printer |
No. Quality depends on the coating, finish and the printer, as well as weight.