Best Photo Quality Paper of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Photo Quality Paper is a high-quality paper that is specifically designed for printing photos. It is perfect for printing professional-quality photos that are sharp, clear, and vibrant. This paper is made from high-quality materials that are designed to produce high-quality prints that are long-lasting and fade-resistant. It is compatible with most inkjet printers and is available in a variety of sizes and finishes, including glossy, matte, and satin. Whether you are a professional photographer or just looking to print some family photos, Photo Quality Paper is the perfect choice for all your photo printing needs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

CanonInk Glossy Photo Paper 8.5" x 11" 100 Sheets Cover #TOP 1
CanonInk Glossy Photo Paper 8.5" x 11" 100 Sheets
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Canon 7981A004 Photo Paper Plus, Matte Cover #TOP 2
Canon 7981A004 Photo Paper Plus, Matte
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Epson S041727 Premium Photo Paper Cover #TOP 3
Epson S041727 Premium Photo Paper
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Photo Quality Paper

#TOP 1

CanonInk Glossy Photo Paper 8.5" x 11" 100 Sheets

1433C004
8.5 x 11 Inch
CanonInk Glossy Photo Paper 8.5" x 11" 100 Sheets Cover
CanonInk Glossy Photo Paper 8.5" x 11" 100 Sheets (1433C004)

CanonInk Glossy Photo Paper 8.5" x 11" 100 Sheets is an economical choice for great prints. This vibrant, glossy photo paper gives you crisp, clear photos that are high quality without the high cost. Customers have reported good value for the amount of paper, fast drying colors, and good quality paper. However, some have noted that the paper is thinner than expected and the color is not as vibrant as other Canon papers.

What We Like
Economically priced
Sharp and vibrant prints
Good quality for photo printing
Compatible with various printers
Reasonable thickness
What We Don't Like
Packaging can be damaged
Not very thick
#TOP 2

Canon 7981A004 Photo Paper Plus, Matte

7981A004
White
Letter Size
Canon 7981A004 Photo Paper Plus, Matte Cover
Canon 7981A004 Photo Paper Plus, Matte, 8-1/2 x 11 (Pack of 50 Sheets)

The Canon 7981A004 Photo Paper Plus, Matte is a heavyweight paper with a special coating that is optimized for superior image output. It is great for photos or crafts, and is a great choice for those looking to get a clean and dry finish over their photos. It is a bit flimsy due to its 45lb/170g/m2, but is still a great choice for black and white photos and digital illustration matte prints.

What We Like
High-quality matte finish
Vibrant print results
Affordable price
Easy to use
Good for art reproduction
What We Don't Like
Thin paper quality
Requires careful side selection
#TOP 3

Epson S041727 Premium Photo Paper

S041727
White
4x6 Inches
Epson S041727 Premium Photo Paper Cover
Epson S041727 Premium Photo Paper, 68 lbs., High-Gloss, 4 x 6 (Pack of 100 Sheets),White

Epson S041727 Premium Photo Paper is a high-gloss, water-resistant photo paper with a quick-dry surface. It is a pack of 100 sheets of 4 x 6 inch paper with a resin coating for the look and feel of a traditional photograph. Customers have praised its quality, convenience, and affordability, with many noting its compatibility with Epson printers.

What We Like
High-quality prints
Vibrant colors
Quick-dry surface
Water-resistant
Easy paper feed
What We Don't Like
Watermarks on the back
#TOP 4

Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper GLOSSY

S042175
White
8.5" x 11"
Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper GLOSSY Cover
Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper GLOSSY (8.5x11 Inches, 50 Sheets) (S042175),White

Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper GLOSSY is a photo quality paper that provides long lasting, professional quality prints. It features ultra smooth, bright white, heaviest weight paper that produces extraordinary images. Additionally, it has a fast drying, smudge and water resistant surface that ensures your prints stay pristine.

What We Like
High quality prints
Great price compared to local stores
Excellent water resistance
Good weight and thickness
Produces vibrant colors
What We Don't Like
Packaging may arrive damaged
Light wrinkles in some batches
#TOP 5

Epson Premium Matte Presentation Paper

S041568
Bright White
Epson Premium Matte Presentation Paper Cover
Epson Premium Presentation Paper MATTE (8.5x11 Inches, Double-sided, 50 Sheets) (S041568),Bright White

Epson Matte Presentation Paper is an excellent choice for your printing needs. Its non-glare surface makes it ideal for producing stunning photographs and creating eye-catching craft projects and signage. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that this paper resists fading for up to 72 years, ensuring your prints stay vibrant for a long time. Furthermore, it is guaranteed to work seamlessly with all inkjet printers, making it a versatile option for any home or office. With a pack of 50 sheets, you’ll have plenty of paper for your creative endeavors.

What We Like
Incredible print quality
Exceptional color fidelity
Great for various applications
Double-sided printing capability
Reasonably priced
What We Don't Like
Price increased recently
#TOP 6

Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper Glossy

S042182
White
Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper Glossy Cover
Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper Glossy, Letter, 8.5 x 11, 25 Sheets (S042182), White

Epson Glossy Photo Paper is the new standard for extraordinary images. With its long-lasting, professional quality prints, you can be assured that your photos will look their best for years to come. The ultra-smooth, bright white, heaviest weight paper provides a high-quality surface for your prints. Not only does it dry fast, but it is also smudge and water resistant, ensuring that your prints stay pristine. Whether you're printing family photos, professional portraits, or stunning landscapes, Epson Glossy Photo Paper delivers exceptional results every time. Say goodbye to dull prints and hello to vibrant, true-to-life colors with Epson Glossy Photo Paper.

What We Like
High-quality glossy finish
Vibrant and crisp colors
Thick, durable paper
Excellent value for money
Compatible with various printers
What We Don't Like
Returned item packaging issues
Not suitable for all printers
#TOP 7

Canon LU-101 LTR(50) Luster Photo Paper

LU-101 LTR(50)
White
Canon LU-101 LTR(50) Luster Photo Paper Cover
Canon LU-101 LTR(50) Luster Photo Paper Letter, 50 Sheets (LU-101 LTR)

Canon LU-101 LTR(50) Luster Photo Paper Letter is a great choice for portrait and wedding photography prints. It has a semi-gloss finish that resists fingerprints and virtually eliminates glare, and a paper weight of 69lbs. Customers have praised its quality and value, and have noted that it prints great from HP printers. However, some have noted that the Amazon packaging was not ideal.

What We Like
High quality prints
Excellent color accuracy
Quick drying time
Compatible with various printers
Thick, easy-to-handle paper
What We Don't Like
Ink takes time to dry
Loading can be tricky
#TOP 8

Paper Plan Glossy Photo Paper

PP-1036
White
Paper Plan Glossy Photo Paper Cover
Glossy Photo Paper For Printer 8.5 x 11” x 100 Sheets - Picture Paper for Printer - Works with Inkjet Printer - Professional Standard // Paper Plan

Paper Plan Photo Paper offers an impressive 8.5 x 11-inch glossy finish that brings your photos to life with vibrant colors and sharp details. With a bulk pack of 100 sheets, you can easily tackle multiple printing projects without worrying about running out. This paper is designed for seamless compatibility with any inkjet printer, making it simple for you to print professional-quality photos at home. Plus, with a satisfaction guarantee, you can feel confident that your printing experience will meet your expectations or be resolved to your satisfaction.

What We Like
High-quality photo prints
Great value for money
Fast delivery service
Durable and thick paper
Good ink absorption
What We Don't Like
Printer compatibility issues
#TOP 9

Paper Plan Premium Glossy Photo Paper

PP-1070
White
Paper Plan Premium Glossy Photo Paper Cover
Premium Glossy Photo Paper 8.5 x 11, 50 Sheets – Perfect for Crisp, Beautiful Prints, Ideal for Inkjet Printers

With Paper Plan Glossy Photo Paper, you can achieve professional-quality prints right at home. This 8.5 x 11 paper boasts vibrant colors and stunning detail, making your photos truly come alive. You’ll appreciate the bulk packaging of 50 sheets, which is perfect for large projects or frequent printing without breaking the bank. Designed specifically for inkjet printers, this paper ensures smooth printing and exceptional results every time. Enjoy the clarity and depth that will elevate your photographic art and impress anyone who sees your prints.

What We Like
Vibrant colors and sharp details
Thick, premium feel
Quick-drying ink
Compatible with inkjet printers
Excellent value for quality
What We Don't Like
Thicker sheets may require care
No protective packaging
#TOP 10

HP Advanced Photo Paper, Glossy

HP
Q7853A
White
8.5 x 11 in
HP Advanced Photo Paper, Glossy Cover
HP Advanced Photo Paper, Glossy, 8.5x11 in, 50 sheets (Q7853A)

HP Advanced Photo Paper is a high-quality photo paper that allows users to create enhanced photo projects with a brilliant, glossy finish. It is perfect for creating long-lasting memories as the photos resist fading for decades when printed with Original HP Ink. Users can customize photos with easy-to-use editing tools and print from their phone with HP Smart app. This FSC-certified, recyclable paper is designed with sustainability in mind and produces durable, quick-dry photos right from the printer.

What We Like
Excellent glossy shine
Holds ink phenomenally well
Thick and high-quality paper
Great value for money
Vivid and impressive colors
What We Don't Like
High ink costs
Buying Guide Image

What to Look for in Photo Quality Paper

Introduction

When it comes to printing photos, the type of paper you use can make all the difference in the final product. From glossy to matte, there are many different options to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics. In this article, we will cover the basics of photo quality paper and provide some tips on how to choose the right paper for your needs.

Types of Photo Quality Paper

One of the first decisions you will need to make when choosing photo quality paper is the finish. The most common options are glossy and matte, but there are also other finishes available such as pearl, satin, and luster.

  • Glossy paper has a shiny finish that helps to make colors pop and gives photos a vibrant, professional look. This type of paper is best suited for photos with lots of color and detail.

  • Matte paper has a non-reflective finish that produces a more muted, subtle effect. This type of paper is best for photos with softer colors or a more artistic aesthetic.

Other finishes, such as pearl, satin, and luster, offer a middle ground between glossy and matte. Pearl paper has a subtle shimmer, satin paper has a soft sheen, and luster paper has a slightly glossy finish. These finishes can add a touch of elegance to your photos without being as flashy as glossy paper.

Weight and Thickness

Another important consideration when choosing photo quality paper is the weight and thickness. Photo paper is typically measured in grams per square meter (gsm), with higher numbers indicating a heavier and thicker paper.

A heavier paper will have a more substantial feel and will be less prone to damage or creasing. It is also more likely to stand the test of time, as it will be less susceptible to fading or discoloration. On the other hand, a lighter paper will be more affordable and may be easier to work with, especially if you are printing at home.

In general, a weight of 200-300 gsm is suitable for most purposes, but if you are printing large format photos or plan to frame your photos, a heavier weight may be preferable.

Compatibility with Your Printer

When choosing photo quality paper, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with your printer. Different printers have different capabilities, and using the wrong type of paper can lead to poor print quality or even damage to your printer.

Before purchasing photo paper, consult the user manual for your printer to determine the recommended weight and finish. If you are unsure, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose a paper that is within the recommended range.

Conclusion

Choosing the right photo quality paper can make a big difference in the final look of your photos. Consider the finish, weight, and thickness, as well as compatibility with your printer, to ensure that you get the best results. With these tips in mind, you can select the perfect paper for your needs and create beautiful, professional-quality prints.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is photo quality paper?

High-quality paper absorbs the right amount of ink. It gives the print a glossy and shiny appeal. The most common types of paper for printing photos are glossy, lustre and baryta paper. An inkjet printer uses a printer cartridge that creates an image that is 300 x 300 dpi (dots per inch).

2. Which GSM paper is best for photo?

Ideally for photography, we'd recommend choosing a paper weight around 150-200 GSM. This will help if you are intending to mount or frame the picture afterwards. As a measure of paper density, higher GSM weight feels thicker when held.

Editor's Notes

During our photo quality paper research, we found 24 photo quality paper products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 204,790 customer reviews through our big data system to write the photo quality paper list. We found that most customers choose photo quality paper with an average price of $18.16.

The photo quality paper are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of photo quality paper, including Canon, Epson, Paper Plan, HP. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Photo Quality Paper Comparison Table

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Brand Canon Canon Epson Epson Epson Epson Canon Paper Plan Paper Plan HP
Color red White White White Bright White White White White White White
Paper Finish Glossy Matte High Gloss Glossy Matte Glossy Semi-Gloss Glossy Glossy Glossy
Sheet Size 8.5-x-11-Inch 8 1/2 in x 11 in Inches 4-x-6-inch 8.5-x-11-inch 8 1/2 in x 11 in 8.5-x-11-inch Letter 8.5-x-11-inch Inches 8.5 x 11 Inches 8 1/2 in x 11 in
Item Weight 2.8 Pounds 1.42 Pounds 15.2 ounces - 600 Grams 1.25 Pounds 8 ounces 115 Grams 200 Grams 1.7 Pounds
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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