Choosing the Right Paper for the Job

With so many different paper options on the market today, it can be overwhelming trying to find the proper paper for the job. There are often whole aisles in office supply stores just devoted to paper. With different weights, brightness, colors, finishes, sizes, brands and prices, there is a lot to consider. A few simple tips can help you choose the right paper for your purposes.

The first thing to think about when choosing paper for a laser printer is what type of job you need the printer to perform. If you are printing an important document, such as a diploma, an official certificate or résumé, you need a high-quality paper for the best presentation. Another thing to keep in mind is budget. How many copies will you need to make? Some of the higher-quality papers for document or photo printing can really add up if you need several copies.

For laser printers, higher-quality paper usually means a heavier base weight and brightness for better image absorption. Also, because laser printers use intense heat to apply images, it is important to make sure the paper you select is curl and jam resistant.

While the selection of paper for laser printers seems overwhelming, keeping it simple can help you choose the best option. Just think about how much you are willing to spend and what kind of job you need done, and this helps you eliminate most of that abundant paper aisle. When you have it narrowed from there, consider brand, weight and brightness. Then, you are on your way finding the right paper for printing your project.