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Select the best paper for any job

Explore a variety of HP papers for inkjet and LaserJet printers
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Content starts here

»  See why HP paper is important
»  Learn about key HP paper features
»  Choose paper suited to specific tasks
»  Pair with the right ink for best results
»  Find paper for multipurpose printing
»  Find paper for photo printing
»  Color business printing
»  Find special media for printing
HP

Introduction

Whether for professional, creative, or everyday use, HP helps take the guesswork out of finding the perfect inkjet or LaserJet paper for any project.


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See why HP paper is important

HP paper, ink, and HP printer
HP papers, printers and inks are specifically designed to work together.

Not all papers are created equal! Designed with each element of the HP printing process in mind, HP papers, toners, and inks are specially engineered to work together to deliver quality, reliable printing, as well as fade resistance, bolder blacks and more vibrant colors.

Because HP papers are specifically formulated to work with HP printers, it’s important to select the right HP paper for every job to ensure a crisp, clean finished product.


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Learn about key HP paper features

HP paper label
The easy-to-read label on all HP papers gives you the information you need on paper finish, brightness, weight, size and printer compatibility.
Businessman with several documents
Printing on brighter paper with a matte finish gives you higher contrast and makes a text-heavy document easier to read.
Man hanging up piece of artwork
A heavier stock gives your work a more substantial presence, while wide format or panoramic sized paper is perfect for artistic prints and photo enlargements.
Check the label on HP paper packaging to find this key information:

  • Finish
  • Consider the look you want to achieve, and choose a finish that fits your needs:
    • Glossy
      For color images that really pop, try printing on a paper with a glossy finish.
    • Matte
      If printing a document with text, such as a term paper or resume, a matte finish can make your text easier to read.
    • Satin
      A satin finish will give your photos a smooth, professional touch.
  • Brightness
  • The brightness of your paper refers to the amount of light reflected from the surface of the paper, and is typically measured on a scale from 1 to 100. Print on brighter paper, such as HP Bright White Inkjet Paper, for higher contrast, crisper text, and a clean background for more vivid images.

  • Weight
  • Thickness (measured in millimeters) and weight (measured in pounds), refer to the sturdiness and crease-resistance of your paper. HP paper comes in a variety of different weights.

    You may try using a heavier paper for artwork or pieces that will be frequently handled, like cards or brochures. Heavier paper can also help formal, more substantial printed pieces, such as resumes and invitations, stand out from the crowd.

  • Size
  • HP offers many kinds of paper in a variety of sizes, from standard 8.5" x 11" paper, to 4" x 6" and 5" x 7" photo paper, to specialty sizes such as wide format and legal paper.

    Not all printers can handle all kinds of paper, so before stocking up, check your printer manual for paper size and weight capabilities.

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    Choose paper suited to specific tasks

    HP printer with double-sided document in output tray

    Whether printing driving directions, invoices, snapshots for the fridge, or formal wedding invitations, HP has the paper you need to get the job done.

    Use the charts below, broken up by task into four useful categories-- Multipurpose, Photo, Color business printing, and Special media—to select the best paper to get optimal results from every page you print.


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    Pair with the right ink for best results

    HP ink cartridges
    Be sure to use long-lasting HP original ink cartridges to ensure quality performance.

    No matter what type of HP paper you choose to print on, be sure you use Original HP inks and Original HP toner to ensure reliable quality and long-lasting printer performance.

    HP scientists go through a rigorous process to create ink that’s virtually flawless. And in a recent independent test by QualityLogic, HP original inkjet print cartridges printed an average of 65% more pages than bargain refilled and remanufactured ink cartridges*.

    Find out how Original HP toner compares to remanufactured cartridges, too.


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    Multipurpose printing

    HP ColorLok label

    For basic home and office printing, a simple, multipurpose paper is your best bet.

    Many HP multipurpose papers now feature ColorLok technology for more vibrant colors, bolder blacks, and fewer smears. Engineered with special additives that chemically react with inkjet inks, ColorLok paper absorbs ink deeper into the paper while holding the pigment closer to the surface, delivering impeccable print quality every time.


    Paper Type Printer Type Description Usage Ideas
    HP Multipurpose Paper Inkjet

    • Bright finish and smooth surface for sharp, professional-looking results.
    • ColorLok technology

    General office documents including copies and faxes

    HP Bright White Inkjet Paper Inkjet

    • Bright, blue-white finish for sharper contrast and more vibrant color
    • ColorLok technolgy

    Proposals, presentations and newsletters
    HP LaserJet Paper LaserJet • Bright finish
    • Thicker than standard paper
    • High opacity prevents show-through
    General office documents, especially documents that combine text with spot colors.
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    Photo printing

    Father and daughter looking at photos

    When you print on HP photo paper, you get professional, lab-quality photo prints every time. Whether sharing snapshots of a recent gathering with friends, displaying artistic photos in your home, or reprinting a treasured photo heirloom, HP has the photo paper you need for crisp, high-quality photo prints that last.


    Paper Type Printer Type Description Usage Ideas
    HP Advanced Photo Paper Inkjet

    • Thick and durable
    • Dries instantly to resist smudging
    • Variety of finishes available

    Snapshots, photo projects, photos for displaying on your refrigerator or sharing with guests

    HP Premium Plus Photo Paper Inkjet

    • HP’s best photo paper
    • Smudge and stick-resistant textured coating
    • Superior fade resistance delivers photos that last for generations**

    Important event photos, photo gifts, albums, scrapbooks and framed photos
    HP Color Laser Photo Paper LaserJet • Coated for photo printing on both sides
    • Glossy stock specially formulated for laser printing
    Business photos, marketing materials, postcards and snapshots
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    Color business printing

    Businesswoman and man in a conference room

    Whether conducting a company-wide presentation, submitting a winning proposal, or promoting your business to potential customers and clients, printing your message on the right paper can make all the difference.

    For business documents that really pop, consider printing on one of the following HP papers, specifically designed for color business printing:


    Paper Type Printer Type Description Usage Ideas
    HP Brochure and Flyer Paper Inkjet

    • Heavyweight paper resists general wear and tear
    • Matte finish for sharp print quality
    • Coated for printing on both sides

    Brochures, flyers and paper craft projects

    HP Premium Presentation Paper Inkjet

    • Professional-weight paper adds a level of sophistication
    • Bright white matte finish for vibrant colors and sharper text
    • Coated for printing on both sides

    Professional presentations, newsletters, proposals and resumes
    HP Color Laser Presentation Paper LaserJet • Heavyweight, gloss-coated stock helps your document stand out from the crowd
    • Optimized for laser printing
    Professional presentations, newsletters, proposals and resumes
    HP Color Laser Brochure Paper LaserJet

    • High-impact, glossy finish for a more professional look and feel
    • Coated with slip agents to prevent paper jams
    • Consistent color, clarity and finish

    Brochures, flyers and paper craft projects
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    Special media printing

    Woman working in art studio

    HP has the media you need for just about any creative printing endeavor. Create customized scrapbook pages, formal invitations, or gallery-quality artistic prints. Embellish a T-shirt with a professional logo, cool graphic, or silly photo. Print transparencies right at your home or office. With HP special media, the opportunities are endless.


    Paper Type Printer Type Description Usage Ideas
    HP Iron-on Transfers Inkjet

    • Easy to print, iron on, and peel off
    • Bold colors stand up to washings

    T-shirts, bags, caps and other customized items for your business, family, sports team or organization
    HP LaserJet Tough Paper LaserJet • Premium satin finish coated for printing on both sides
    • Robust and waterproof for extra durable documents
    • Retains color and clarity when exposed to weather and other conditions
    Signs, maps, manuals, report covers, blueprints, business cards and catalogs
    HP Transparencies for LaserJets LaserJet

    • ColorSphere toner delivers bold color transparencies
    • Scratch- and heat-resistant for extra durability
    • Custom-engineered for laser printing

    Business presentations, educational use, and creative projects
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    Learn more


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    *Based on 2009 Quality Logic Inc. study commissioned by HP.
    Wilhelm Imaging Research, Inc.

    **When used with HP Vivera Inks, based on tests conducted by Wilhelm Imaging Research, Inc.

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