Differences in Printing Performance of Coated Paper with Different Weights

Coated paper is one of the most commonly used materials in the printing industry. It has a wide range of applications and is highly favored by customers. Whether for inner pages, covers, or single sheet, coated paper is often the first choice. When classified by weight, coated paper generally falls into four categories based on its printing applications:

1. 105g + 128g Coated Paper

This is the minimum paper weight suitable for four-color printing on coated stock. Lighter paper may cause show-through issues, as it lacks opacity, though it remains a cost-effective option. Therefore, it is commonly used for magazine interiors or large-volume, budget-conscious promotional materials.

105g Coated Paper:
This relatively lightweight paper still offers excellent quality. It is ideal for printing materials that do not require much thickness, such as brochures, leaflets, and book interiors or covers. The smooth surface ensures vivid color reproduction and sharp details, delivering a refined printing effect.

128g Coated Paper:
Slightly heavier and stiffer than 105g, this paper provides a more substantial texture and feel. It is well-suited for printing high-end promotional materials, such as corporate reports, catalogs, and premium brochures. Its excellent surface quality ensures vibrant, detailed, and visually appealing prints.

2. 157g Coated Paper

157g coated paper is one of the most popular choices in the printing industry for its balanced weight and superior printability. It offers high stiffness, smoothness, and the ability to reproduce fine, detailed images and text. It’s widely used for premium brochures, catalogs, book covers, posters, and cards. Its moderate thickness also ensures stability and durability during handling and distribution.

3. 200g + 250g Coated Paper

These weights are ideal for companies pursuing higher-quality print products. While the cost is relatively higher due to the premium raw materials, the outcome is often worth it. 200g and 250g coated papers are frequently used for high-end flyers, posters, catalog covers, inserts, cards, and packaging.

200g Coated Paper:
Thicker and more durable, it provides excellent ink absorption and is perfect for materials that need a sense of substance and quality—such as premium brochures, corporate annual reports, and product catalogs. Its smooth surface and excellent color reproduction make it ideal for showcasing detailed imagery and rich tones.

250g Coated Paper:
Even thicker and sturdier than 200g, this paper is typically used for high-end printing projects that demand superior tactile and visual quality—such as hardcover book covers, luxury packaging, or premium presentation folders. It enhances the perceived value of printed products and leaves a lasting impression.

4. 300g + 350g Coated Paper

These heavier coated papers are less common today, as they are often replaced by cardstock for many applications. However, they are still used for certain high-end projects such as brochure covers, packaging boxes, and paper bags.

300g Coated Paper:
Known for its impressive thickness and substantial feel, this paper is perfect for projects that require a high level of texture and weight—such as luxury catalogs, corporate brochures, and annual reports. Its smooth surface and rich color reproduction enhance image details and deliver an elegant, professional finish.

350g Coated Paper:
Even thicker than 300g, it approaches the feel of card stock. It’s commonly used for premium applications like hardcover book covers and luxury gift packaging. With excellent stiffness and ink-holding capacity, 350g coated paper ensures durability during handling and transport while creating a strong visual and tactile impact.