Printing quality and readability depends on the correct paper selection for your printer.
Compassion
- Parameters to watch out for
- Size (or size) of paper
- Density
- Brightness
- Class
- Compatible with printer type
- Summary
How to choose paper for your printer: parameters to pay attention to
It is worth considering that the recommended paper for use is often already indicated in the instructions for the printer. If it is not there, you should be guided by the following parameters:
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Size (aka format);
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Density;
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Brightness;
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Class;
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Compatible with the type of printer.
It is also worth evaluating the organoleptic qualities of the paper – the presence of dust on its surface and cuts, the uniformity of density (for this you need to take a sheet and look at it through the light), the smoothness of the surface.
Size (or size) of paper
Almost all modern printers designed for home or office use are designed to be used with A4 or smaller paper. However, the exact size can be found in the documentation for the device itself.
However, the paper itself for printers is most often produced in A4 format.
Density
The density of the paper determines its performance and organoleptic characteristics. In addition, most mid-range and budget printers have this limit.
The most optimal density for printing is 80-95 grams per square meter. If you plan to print on both sides, it is recommended to take heavier paper.
On the other hand, paper of lighter weight can be jammed by the printer or tear inside its mechanism. Materials that have a density greater than the maximum can simply get stuck in the device.
Brightness
Brightness is a parameter that determines the organoleptic properties of the paper. The higher it is, the whiter it is, respectively. Paper of 100% brightness is suitable for printing only very important documents, and for everything else, 80-90% will be enough.
It is clear that the lower the brightness of the paper, the grayer it appears.
Class
Class is a complex designation for such paper parameters as composition, fiber size, organoleptic properties, etc. There are three of them – A, B and C.
Grade A paper is of the highest quality. It is bright, dense and has a smooth texture. Nevertheless, it is very expensive, as a result of which it is advisable to use such paper for printing, printing important documents, etc. For everything else, class C is enough.
Compatible with printer type
Of course, paper is nothing more than a consumable, and the fact that insufficiently compatible sheets are installed in the printer will not cause any damage. However, due to the difference in inkjet and laser technology, print quality may vary.
This is why paper is often labeled as 'more suitable' and 'less suitable' for a particular type of printing.
It is clear that it is worth choosing the 'more suitable' paper for your type of printer.
Summary
Most paper parameters determine its organoleptic rather than performance. However, when choosing a suitable consumable, you should not save money – at low density, the sheet may break, and its uneven texture can scratch the printer head. Rather, it should be guided by the principle of 'reasonable sufficiency'.
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In the following articles, our experts will tell you how to choose the right laser printer, the secrets of choosing a printer for home and the main criteria for choosing a photo printer for printing bright photos.
Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.
