It’s tempting to grab the cheapest ream of paper at the store, but not all paper is created equal. Using low-quality paper can actually cost you more in the long run by causing problems with your printer and lowering print quality.
The Hidden Costs of Cheap Paper
- More Paper Jams
- Thin or poorly cut paper can stick together or feed unevenly.
- This means wasted time clearing jams and wasted sheets of paper.
- Extra Wear on Your Printer
- Rough or dusty paper leaves behind particles that build up inside the printer.
- This dust can clog rollers, sensors, and even damage fusers.
- Lower Print Quality
- Ink or toner may not stick evenly on low-quality paper.
- You’ll see smudges, faded spots, or ink bleeding through the page.
- Higher Supply Costs
- If pages don’t look good, you’ll end up reprinting.
- More reprints = more toner or ink used, which adds up fast.
What to Look for in Good Paper
- Weight: Standard office paper is 20 lb. Heavier paper (24–28 lb) feels sturdier and prints cleaner.
- Brightness: Higher brightness (measured on a 1–100 scale) gives you sharper text and better contrast.
- Recommended Use: Some papers are designed specifically for laser or inkjet printers — using the right match reduces issues.
Final Thoughts
Cheap paper may save you a few dollars upfront, but it often leads to more jams, lower quality, and higher supply costs. Investing in better paper pays off with fewer problems and sharper results.
