Paper and Media Basics

Paper matters more than people expect. The right size, weight and type, together with matching settings, gives cleaner prints and fewer surprises.

Sizes

• Letter (8.5 × 11 in) is standard in the United States and Canada.
• A4 (210 × 297 mm) is standard in most other countries.
• Legal (8.5 × 14 in) is used for some forms and contracts.
• 4 × 6 in is the common photo size.

If prints come out with odd margins or cut-off edges, check that the paper size in the print dialog matches what's in the tray.

Weight

Paper weight is shown in pounds (lb) in the US or grams per square meter (gsm) elsewhere. Everyday copy paper is around 20 lb (75–80 gsm). Heavier card stock may need a rear or manual feed slot. Each printer lists the weights it handles.

Types

Plain paper

For everyday documents.

Photo paper

Glossy or matte coated paper for photos, mostly for inkjet printers. Load it with the printable side facing the way the printer expects.

Envelopes and labels

Check the printer's guidance on orientation and which tray to use. Laser printers need labels made for laser use.

Loading tips

• Fan the stack lightly before loading so sheets don't stick together.
• Slide the paper guides until they touch the stack without bending it.
• Don't fill above the tray's maximum mark.
• Store paper flat and dry. Damp or curled paper feeds less reliably.

Match the settings

Choosing the paper type in the print dialog lets the printer adjust how much ink it lays down and how it handles the sheet. Photo paper printed on a "plain paper" setting often looks worse than it should.