Paper Weight Calculator

Enter a paper weight in any system (GSM, lb Bond, lb Cover, lb Text, lb Index) and instantly see all equivalent weights plus ream and sheet weight estimates.

Use the Paper Weight Calculator

Paper Weight Input

Common Paper Weights

Use GSM lb Bond lb Cover
Copy paper 75 20 28
Premium letter 90 24 33
Brochure text 130 — 50
Business card 260 — 100
Heavy card 350 — 130

Enter a weight value and click Convert

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Summary

Paper weight is expressed differently around the world and across paper grades, making comparisons confusing. This tool converts between five common systems — GSM (grams per square meter), lb Bond, lb Cover, lb Text, and lb Index — using industry-standard conversion factors. It also estimates the weight of a full ream (500 sheets) and of a single sheet at any given size.

How it works

  1. Select the weight system you already know (e.g., GSM or lb Bond).
  2. Enter the numeric weight value in the input field.
  3. Optionally, choose a sheet size (Letter, A4, Legal, Tabloid, etc.) to get per-sheet weight.
  4. The tool instantly converts to all other weight systems.
  5. Ream weight (500 sheets) and single-sheet weight are shown for the chosen size.

Use cases

  • Compare paper from international suppliers who quote GSM vs. US lb grades.
  • Estimate shipping weight for a print job before ordering.
  • Verify that a paper stock labeled in lb Bond matches a GSM spec from a spec sheet.
  • Choose the right paper weight for business cards, letterheads, or brochures.
  • Calculate how much a ream of cover stock will weigh for freight planning.
  • Cross-check printer paper specifications between European and North American vendors.
  • Educate designers on the difference between Text weight and Cover weight.
  • Determine the per-sheet weight when costing custom stationery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-05-23 · Reviewed by Nham Vu