Copy & Multipurpose Paper

For everyday office printing and copying, choose 20 lb (75–80 gsm) multipurpose paper; use heavier 24–28 lb (90–105 gsm) for higher-quality presentations, double-sided documents, or where bleed-through and opacity matter

Brightness values range from about 70 to 100; higher brightness (around 90–100) yields crisper contrast and whiter appearance, while lower brightness is easier on the eyes and often fine for internal documents; choose based on desired print contrast and color reproduction

Yes—check your printer or copier manual for supported weights and recommended paper types; most laser and inkjet office machines handle standard multipurpose 20 lb paper, but heavier stocks or specialty finishes (coated, recycled) may require manual feed or specific settings

Recycled paper reduces environmental impact but can vary in brightness, smoothness, and opacity; modern recycled multipurpose papers perform similarly to virgin fiber options for most office tasks, though some high-end printing jobs may prefer non-recycled stocks

Store paper flat in its original packaging in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity; avoid stacking heavy items on top and allow paper to acclimate to the printer room for a few hours before use to reduce curling and feeding issues

Look for good opacity to minimize show-through, consistent smoothness for even toner/ink transfer, and appropriate brightness for color contrast; for duplex printing, choose paper specifically rated for double-sided use to reduce jamming and bleed-through

Price varies by weight, brightness, recycled content, and brand; for high-volume needs, compare cost per ream or per 1,000 sheets and balance baseline quality (e.g., 20 lb, adequate brightness) with any specialty requirements to find the most economical option