Printer Paper Guide: 80gsm vs 100gsm, Recycled and Bulk Buying
Quick answer: 80gsm is the standard paper for everyday printing and copying. Use 90 to 100gsm for reports, proposals and double-sided colour printing where you want less show-through. Recycled 80gsm works in modern printers and is a simple way to cut environmental impact.
Paper looks the same in the box, but weight, brightness and finish change how documents look and how smoothly they run through your printer.
What does gsm mean?
gsm stands for grams per square metre: the higher the number, the thicker and heavier the paper.
| Weight | Use it for |
|---|---|
| 75 to 80gsm | Everyday printing, copying, internal documents |
| 90 to 100gsm | Client reports, CVs, double-sided colour |
| 120gsm and above | Covers, flyers, certificates (check printer limits) |
Recycled vs virgin paper
Modern recycled paper is bright, smooth and made for laser and inkjet printers. For most office printing you will not notice a difference, and it lowers the environmental footprint of your printing.
A4 or A3?
A4 is the standard for letters and documents. A3 is twice the size, used for plans, posters and spreadsheets printed large. Check your printer's tray before buying A3.
Save money by buying in bulk
Busy offices and schools save the most by buying boxes or pallets rather than single reams. Store paper flat in a dry place and keep it in its wrapper until needed, which helps prevent jams.
- Xerox Recycled A4 80gsm Paper 8 Boxes of 2500 Sheets for Eco-Conscious Offices (from £146.99): 8 boxes of recycled A4 80gsm.
- Xerox Performer A4 80gsm Paper (8 Boxes / 20,000 Sheets) – High-Volume Office Bulk Pack (from £162.99): 8 boxes of A4 80gsm for high-volume offices.
- Image Business A4 80gsm Paper (8 Boxes / 20,000 Sheets) – Multi-Purpose Eco-Friendly Bulk Paper (from £173.99): multi-purpose bulk A4.
- Data Copy ECF A4 100gsm Paper Box of 2500 Sheets for High-Contrast Printing (from £47.99): 100gsm A4 for crisp, professional documents.
- Xerox Recycled A3 80gsm Paper 4 Boxes of 2500 Sheets for Sustainable Large-Format Printing (from £157.99): recycled A3 for large-format printing.
FAQs
Q: Why does my paper jam?
A: Damp or curled paper is the usual cause. Fan the stack before loading, do not overfill the tray and store paper flat.
Q: Can I use 100gsm paper in any printer?
A: Most office printers handle 100gsm. Check the maximum paper weight in your printer's manual.
Q: How many sheets are in a ream and a box?
A: A ream is 500 sheets; a standard box holds 5 reams, or 2,500 sheets.
Shop copy and printer paper and recycled paper.
Prices shown were correct when this guide was updated on 10 November 2026 and may change. Check the product page for the latest price.
