The Best Printer Paper

Hammermill Printer Paper

White and bright

This presentation-worthy paper lets bold lettering and vivid color shine through.

Best Overall

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This pack of jam-free copy paper from one of the most trusted names in printing gives you excellent quality and a smooth, clean surface. Hammermill’s Colorlok Technology will provide you with brighter colors and bolder blacks for a smudge-free, smear-free finish that lasts. Made in the USA with strict quality control throughout the entire process, we feel good keeping extra reams of this copy paper on hand for every occasion — we know it’ll deliver the results we’re looking for every time.

Pros:

• Each ream contains 500 sheets of 20-pound paper
• Jam resistant even in high-speed printers
• Works with sustainable forestry practices

Cons:

• The paper feels thin
• Not ideal for double-sided prints

Hammermill Premium Inkjet and Laser Printer Paper

Punch above your weight

This multipurpose paper is best for laser printers.

Best For Laser Printers

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When it comes to laser printers, it helps the quality of the printing process if you use smooth, white paper like this option from Hammermill. This cover-weight paper stock offers presentation-quality printing at a very reasonable price point — a fair deal, since it can be tricky to find affordable, high-quality paper for a laser printer. And as is typical with Hammermill’s high standards, this paper offers bold prints, zero smudging, and no worries on paper jams, either.

Pros:

• Acid-free paper resists yellowing
• Forest Stewardship Council certified for renewability
• Thick enough for double-sided printing

Cons:

• Packaging could be more thoughtful, as there are occasional creases in reams
• A bit heavy if buying in bulk

Canon Photo Paper Plus Glossy II

Photographer's dream

With this photograph paper, you can print your favorite pics right at home.

Best For Photos

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With an exceptional gloss delivering ultra-rich colors and rich detail, this photo paper turns your computer and printer into an at-home photo printing lab. Ideal for an advanced amateur photographer with DSLR equipment, this paper delivers a lab-quality print right at your fingertips. This paper makes each photo come to life with a micro-porous coating that easily and readily absorbs ink below the surface. If you prefer a high-gloss, high-definition print, this is an excellent option for at-home photo printing and processing.

Pros:

• Bright, glossy finish
• Instant-dry coating
• Paper resists fading and discoloration

Cons:

• Photo paper is notoriously pricier than regular paper, and with only 20 sheets, this one is no different
• If you prefer a matte finish, look elsewhere — this is definitely glossy

HP Papers BrightWhite24

Keep it professional

This premium quality paper is bright, crisp, and smudge-resistant.

Best Premium

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If you’re looking for the ultimate in a pro-level paper, this high-quality copy paper from HP Papers is a safe bet. At 24 pounds, its thick sheets resist smudging and bleeding, so even double-sided printing won’t show through. This paper is an excellent option for presentations and other projects — and for those who value longevity, the acid-free processing means this paper won’t yellow with time.

Pros:

• Forest Stewardship Council certified
• Includes ColorLok technology for bolder, brighter printing
• Resists bending or folding during printing process

Cons:

• Quality comes with a bit higher price tag, but we feel it’s worth it for important projects
• The packaging isn’t the most reliable

Amazon Basics Multipurpose Copy Printer Paper

All-purpose printing

For a variety of printing and copying needs, this multipurpose paper is affordable and convenient.

Best Multipurpose

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When you do a lot of printing and copying but still want the perks of quality paper, this multipurpose copy printer paper is a great option. It works well with everything from laser or inkjet printers to copiers to fax machines — and it can double as kid-friendly art paper, too. With a 20-pound weight, it’s not the thickest paper out there, but it resists jamming and tearing and is acid-free. At a budget-friendly price point, this is a great all-around option for basic paper needs.

Pros:

• Ideal for a variety of paper needs
• Great for home copy machines
• Bright, crisp printing quality

Cons:

• The paper casing around each ream isn’t durable
• Not for use with high-output copiers

Frequently Asked Questions

Why shouldn’t I use laser paper in my inkjet printer?
Most inkjet papers have a specialized coating that helps the absorption of ink. Inkjet printers require a quick-dry paper solution, or smudging and damage may occur.

Which type of printer is best for at-home printing needs?
Laser printers typically last longer and require less work, so although they may be more pricey up front, they are often the more economical choice in the long run. But inkjet printers are great as well, especially if you don’t print that often. So what’s the main difference? An inkjet printer essentially sprays tiny droplets of ink onto paper during the printing process. They’re great for a variety of uses, such as written documents, images, and photos. Laser printers, on the other hand, basically melt powder toner directly onto paper, which in turn creates a print. Both have their merits; the right option for you depends on your needs.