So why do we call it “20 lb.” paper if it weighs 5 pounds? When the manufacturer weighs the paper it’s not 500 8.5” x 11” size sheets, it’s 500 17” x 22” size sheets which are 4x the size of 8.5”x11”. Moreover, this is thin paper so it’s not likely going to be the culprit of your paper jam.

This number refers to the weight in pounds of a ream of paper (500 sheets) cut to a specific size for that grade of paper. 20 lb. Heavier weight paper (24 lb. and up) has a more substantial feel and is a more appropriate choice for presentations and double-sided copying and printing.

paper weight

For paper that is 24 lb. or higher, the correct envelope is one of equal weight to the paper. The correct envelope for paper up to 20 lb. should be one step heavier than the paper. For example, the proper envelope to use with a 20 pound paper would be one made from 24 pound paper.

24 lb. This multipurpose paper is just a bit heavier than copy paper stock, and works for all the same applications. The color options we offer in this weight make it especially great for crafting bold and vibrant works of art.

Beyond slight subtleties, there is no difference between 24 lb paper and 60 lb paper. They’re the same thickness, same texture, and same weight. They’re two different names and numbers for the same sheet of paper. Both 24 lb and 60 lb paper are very popular as office copy paper.

When it comes to the brightness of copy paper, the higher the number, the brighter. For instance, paper with a level 98 brightness is bright white, while 96 brightness is just slightly less bright, and 92 brightness is even less bright.

Your Options

Laser printers and inkjet printers both support printing on thick paper. Before printing with your laser printer, configure the paper type setting in the print options.