What Is GSM—and Why It Matters for Your Printer

Choose the right stock, avoid paper jams, and get the finish you expect.

At Benchmark Office Systems, we know that paper weight can feel like alphabet soup: bond, text, cover, index… but there’s one metric that cuts through the confusion—GSM, or grams per square meter. Think of GSM as the universal “thickness ruler” for paper. Unlike U.S. pound weights, which change meaning depending on the sheet size, GSM tells you exactly how heavy (and sturdy) a single uncut sheet is, every time.

Need help finding the right GSM for your printer? Contact us.

Why GSM Is Your Go-To Specification

  • Reliable Compatibility: Every printer lists a supported GSM range. When you match your stock’s GSM to that range, you’ll avoid misfeeds, jams, and fuser errors.

  • Consistent Results: Heavier stocks (higher GSM) require slower fuser speeds and straighter paper paths. Load them through the bypass tray and select “Heavyweight” in your printer settings for crisp, clean prints.

  • Smarter Ordering: Rather than guessing based on “cover” or “index” labels, order by GSM and know you’re getting the exact feel and stiffness you need—no surprises.

At Benchmark, we’re here to help you translate those GSM numbers into real-world performance. Whether you’re printing everyday letterhead or premium cardstock, understanding GSM means fewer headaches, less waste, and prints that always look—and work—just right.

Download Our GSM Chart Here.

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