Paper Weight GSM Converter
Paper weight is measured differently in different parts of the world. Most of the world uses GSM (grams per square metre), the metric standard, while North America uses imperial standards based on ream weight (500 sheets) at various standard sizes: bond, text, and cover weights. Understanding the conversions between these systems is essential for purchasing paper, specifying printing jobs, and comparing paper products globally. GSM is straightforward: a sheet that weighs 80 grams per square metre is 80 GSM. Bond weight (used for writing and office paper) is based on larger standard sheets, as is text weight (for books and magazines) and cover weight (for stiff cardboard and covers). This converter displays a comprehensive reference table showing the relationships between GSM and US weight categories, helping you find the right paper for your needs.
Paper weight conversion table
| GSM | US Bond (lb) | US Text (lb) | US Cover (lb) | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 16 | - | - | Lightweight copy paper |
| 75 | 20 | 50 | - | Standard office paper |
| 80 | 21 | 54 | - | Standard copy/print paper |
| 90 | 24 | 60 | - | Quality office paper |
| 100 | 27 | 67 | - | Premium writing paper |
| 120 | 32 | 80 | - | Light cardboard, postcards |
| 160 | 43 | - | 60 | Business cards, brochures |
| 200 | 54 | - | 74 | Heavy card stock |
| 216 | 58 | - | 80 | Standard business card |
| 250 | 68 | - | 92 | Premium business cards |
| 300 | 81 | - | 110 | Heavy card/cover stock |
Conversion formulas
Approximate conversions between weight systems:
- GSM to US bond: bond weight (lb) = GSM / 3.76
- US bond to GSM: GSM = bond weight (lb) * 3.76
- GSM to US text: text weight (lb) = GSM / 1.48
- US text to GSM: GSM = text weight (lb) * 1.48
- GSM to US cover: cover weight (lb) = GSM / 2.70
- US cover to GSM: GSM = cover weight (lb) * 2.70
Paper weight GSM converter: frequently asked questions
What is GSM?
GSM stands for grams per square metre. It is the metric standard for measuring paper weight and thickness. A sheet of paper with an area of one square metre that weighs 80 grams is 80 GSM. Higher GSM indicates thicker, heavier paper.
What is bond paper?
Bond paper is a category of writing paper used for documents and correspondence. US bond weight (e.g., 20 lb, 24 lb) is based on the weight of 500 sheets (a ream) of paper at a standard size (17x22 inches). It is commonly used for letterhead, forms, and office documents.
What is text paper?
Text paper is a finish category used for books, magazines, and fine printing. US text weight is based on 500 sheets at 25x38 inches. It is usually heavier and more textured than bond paper.
What is cover paper?
Cover paper is thicker, more rigid paper used for book covers, business cards, and postcards. US cover weight is based on 500 sheets at 20x26 inches. It is the thickest category of paper commonly used.
What GSM should I use for everyday printing?
For standard office printing and copying, 75-80 GSM is common. For higher quality documents, letters, and forms, 90-100 GSM is standard. Brochures and flyers often use 150-200 GSM. Business cards typically use 250+ GSM.
Official sources
- ISO 536: Paper - Determination of grammage (ISO 536).
- Printing Industry Association: Paper weight standards.
Reviewed by the CalculatorHub team, edited by James Graham, 14 June 2026. See our methodology.