Choosing the right paper weight is the easiest way to get the result you want without paying more than you need to. With FastPrint24 you can print online on four weights: 75, 80, 100 and 200 gsm. Each has its ideal use.
The four available weights
• 75 gsm: budget paper, quality virtually identical to 80 gsm. Ideal for high-volume printing of notes, study handouts or drafts at the lowest price.
• 80 gsm: the everyday standard for documents, letters and office prints.
• 100 gsm: thicker and stronger, perfect for material you will consult often or want to keep.
• 200 gsm: premium paper for covers, business cards, invitations and high-quality brochures.
75 gsm: the cheapest option
75 gsm is the weight many students pick to print university notes, study handouts and thesis drafts. The feel is virtually identical to 80 gsm, but the price is even lower: when your goal is to spend as little as possible, this is the right paper.
80 vs 100 gsm: it is not about print quality
An 80 gsm sheet is thinner and wears out faster than a 100 gsm one. The thicker the paper, the harder it is to fold.
The difference between 80 and 100 gsm is not obvious at first touch, but in terms of durability 100 gsm is clearly superior. Show-through on double-sided prints is also less visible on 100 gsm.
200 gsm: when you need a premium feel
Invitations, covers, business cards: anything that has to communicate quality at first touch should be printed on 200 gsm. It is stiffer, stronger and handles dense color prints much better.
How to choose in 30 seconds
Pick 75 gsm if:
✓ You want the lowest possible price.
✓ You print notes, handouts, drafts or single-use documents.
✓ You will print high volumes.
Pick 80 gsm if:
✓ You want the office standard for documents, letters and invoices.
✓ You print documents you will use only for a short time.
Pick 100 gsm if:
✓ You have important documents you want to keep long-term.
✓ You print medical or engineering courses with lots of color pages.
✓ You will use the document every day: pages will not tear easily.
Pick 200 gsm if:
✓ Diplomas and certificates.
✓ Invitations and cards that need a premium feel.
✓ Book covers or brochures.
✓ Business cards.
How paper weight affects shipping
The thicker the paper, the heavier it is: a ream of 200 gsm weighs more than twice a 75 gsm. That is why our shipping prices are tiered by page count. Orders over €39 ship free across Italy.
Want to know how to choose between standard and premium printing (inkjet or laser)? We have a dedicated article.
For any questions, please contact us through one of the methods listed in the Contacts section.