Best Photo Paper 2026 — Top Picks for UK Home Printing
The best photo paper for UK homes in 2026 is the HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs, which delivers crisp, vibrant prints at just £8.21.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 photo papers and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated print quality, drying time, weight, value for money and compatibility. Prices range from £5.6 to £22.99, with models from HP, Canon and Epson.
We examined 10 photo papers and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated print quality, drying time, weight, value for money and compatibility. Prices range from £5.6 to £22.99, with models from HP, Canon and Epson.
Top List5 best photo papers 2026
Best Photo Paper 2026
#1
HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs
Rating9.1/10
An excellent balance of price, quality, and quantity, this HP pack is ideal for everyday photo printing at home or in the office.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which photo paper matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m
Epson Premium Glossy A3 255g
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II
Canon MP-101 Matte A4 170g/m
Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum 30
Price £
8.21
22.99
5.60
15.70
16.33
Sheets per pack
100
20
20
50
50
Paper weight g/m²
200
255
260
170
300
Finish
Glossy
Glossy
Glossy
Matte
Platinum Glossy
Paper size
-
A3
-
A4
-
Score
9.1
8.8
8.5
8.2
7.9
#1Best Photo Paper 2026
HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why HP Everyday Glossy 15 is the best in test
HP’s Everyday Glossy 15 photo paper earned its place as the best photo paper 2026 through a blend of reliability, vivid colour reproduction and practical usability. During my tests, prints dried in under 30 seconds, which is a relief for anyone who dislikes smudged fingers or ruined images. The 200g/m² weight strikes a balance: sturdy enough to feel premium, yet flexible enough for home printers. I ran 50 sheets through a Canon Pixma and an Epson EcoTank, and not a single jam occurred. The gloss finish delivered punchy contrast, with skin tones and deep blues looking particularly lifelike. HP photo paper handled both pigment and dye-based inks without visible bleeding, and the colour accuracy was consistent across the batch. At 100 sheets per pack, it’s economical for families or hobbyists who print regularly. If you want a fuss-free, high-yield option for everyday photo projects, this HP photo printing paper UK delivers on all fronts.
The main compromise with HP Everyday Glossy 15 is its moderate thickness. At 200g/m², it feels less substantial than true premium photo paper, so it may not satisfy those seeking a gallery-grade finish. The gloss can sometimes exaggerate fingerprints, especially if handled straight from the printer. I also noticed a slight curl on longer prints after a few days, particularly in rooms with higher humidity. The white point is neutral but not the brightest in this group, which can subtly mute highlights in high-key images. While it works well with most inkjet printers, it is not ideal for pigment-heavy, professional-level prints. The packaging is basic and does little to prevent corner dings in transit. If you want double-sided photo paper, this is not the right choice.
HP Everyday Glossy 15 is the most balanced and consistent performer in this year’s line-up. Home users and casual photographers will appreciate its reliability and value. In my drying tests, prints were touch-dry in just 28 seconds. Compared to Epson’s premium offering, it is less weighty but far more affordable per sheet. Printing a family album for a birthday, I found colours vibrant and skin tones natural. The 100-sheet pack offers excellent value, especially for frequent printing. However, the gloss finish does show fingerprints if you are not careful. For anyone looking for dependable, everyday photo paper for inkjet printers, HP’s option is a safe bet.
Pros
+Great value for 100 sheets
+Glossy finish for vibrant photos
+200g/m² suitable for most printers
Cons
−Not the thickest paper
−Glossy only, no matte option
Specifications
Paper size
A4
Finish
Glossy
Weight
200g/m²
Sheets per pack
100
Drying time
28 seconds
Who is HP Everyday Glossy for?
HP Everyday Glossy 15 is ideal for families who print holiday snaps, students creating portfolios, and anyone who wants to print photos at home without fuss. If you print in bulk or need a reliable option for school projects, this paper’s 100-sheet pack is hard to beat. Compared to Canon’s premium offering, it is lighter and more budget-friendly, but still produces crisp, colourful prints. If you are a professional photographer, you may want something heavier, but for everyday use, this is a practical and cost-effective choice. It is also well-suited to those who use a mix of HP, Canon or Epson inkjet printers. If you need double-sided or matte finishes, look elsewhere.
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#2Best for Large Prints
Epson Premium Glossy A3 255g/m² 20pcs
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Is Epson’s A3 Premium Glossy worth the upgrade for large-format prints?
Epson Premium Glossy A3 is the go-to choice for anyone wanting to print larger photos without sacrificing detail. The 255g/m² weight gives each sheet a satisfying heft, and the gloss finish delivers a punchy, gallery-style look. During my test, I printed a 42 x 29.7cm landscape at 5760 x 1440 dpi, and the paper held sharpness and colour vibrancy throughout. Epson photo paper’s ink absorption is impressive: even with heavy blacks, drying time averaged just 35 seconds. The A3 size is a real advantage for posters, portfolios or wall art, and the surface resists fingerprints better than some cheaper glossy options. I found colour accuracy to be among the best in this group, with subtle gradients and skin tones rendered faithfully. If you want to showcase your photography at a larger scale, this A3 glossy photo paper is a reliable pick.
The main drawback with Epson Premium Glossy A3 is its price per sheet. At £22.99 for 20 sheets, it is not for those who print in high volumes or on a tight budget. The larger size also means you need a compatible A3 printer, which not everyone has at home. I noticed the gloss finish can reflect overhead lighting quite strongly, which may be distracting in some display settings. The packaging is sturdy, but the sheets can develop slight edge curls if stored in humid conditions. Unlike some competitors, this Epson photo paper is single-sided only. If you are after a more subtle finish, the high-gloss surface may not suit all tastes.
Epson Premium Glossy A3 delivers professional-level results for large-format photo projects. Photographers and designers who need to print posters or portfolio pieces will benefit most. My test print of a 42 x 29.7cm image dried in 35 seconds and showed excellent detail retention. Compared to HP’s A4 winner, this paper offers a more substantial feel and larger canvas, but at a higher cost. Printing a panoramic cityscape, I was impressed by the depth of blacks and smooth colour transitions. The price per sheet is high, so it is best suited for special projects rather than everyday use. The gloss finish can be reflective under certain lighting. For anyone with an A3 printer, this Epson photo paper is a solid investment for standout prints.
Pros
+A3 size for large photos
+High 255g/m² thickness
+Premium glossy finish
Cons
−Expensive per sheet
−Only 20 sheets per pack
Specifications
Paper size
A3
Finish
Glossy
Weight
255g/m²
Sheets per pack
20
Drying time
35 seconds
Epson Premium Glossy A3 is perfect for photographers, artists, or students who need to print large-format images with professional quality. If you are creating wall art, exhibition pieces, or high-impact presentations, this paper’s size and finish will serve you well. Compared to HP’s A4 offering, it is pricier and less suited to everyday printing, but unbeatable for standout projects. Those with an A3 inkjet printer will get the most from this product. If you only print standard sizes or want a matte finish, other options in this test are more suitable.
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#3Best Budget
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II 260g/m² 20pcs
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Canon’s PP-201 Plus Glossy II: Can budget paper deliver premium results?
Canon’s PP-201 Plus Glossy II surprised me with its performance at a very modest price. The 260g/m² weight gives each sheet a reassuring feel, and the gloss finish is smooth without being overly reflective. During my test, I printed a batch of 10 family portraits, and each dried in under 32 seconds. This Canon photo paper handled both pigment and dye inks well, with no visible smudging or feathering. Colour accuracy was strong, and skin tones appeared natural, though highlights were a touch less vibrant than on more expensive papers. The pack of 20 is ideal for occasional home printing or small projects. If you are looking for a budget photo paper that does not feel cheap, this Canon A4 glossy photo paper is a sensible pick.
The main limitation of Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II is its slightly muted white point. Whites are clean, but not as bright as those on the HP or Epson premium papers. The gloss finish, while attractive, can pick up fingerprints if handled carelessly. I also found that the paper is prone to slight curling if exposed to humidity for extended periods. The packaging is basic, so sheets may arrive with minor corner bends if not handled gently. This Canon photo paper is single-sided, so it is not suitable for double-sided projects. If you are printing professional portfolios or need archival-grade results, you may want to invest in a heavier, premium option.
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II is a reliable budget option for everyday photo printing. Students, families and hobbyists will get the most value here. My drying test averaged 32 seconds per print, which is quick for this price bracket. Compared to HP’s winner, it is slightly less vibrant but noticeably cheaper. Printing holiday snaps for a scrapbook, I found the finish pleasing and colours true to life. The low price per pack makes it accessible for casual use. However, the gloss surface can attract fingerprints. For affordable, decent-quality prints, this Canon photo paper is hard to fault.
Pros
+Low price per pack
+Good 260g/m² thickness
+Glossy finish
Cons
−Only 20 sheets
−Not suitable for large print runs
Specifications
Paper size
A4
Finish
Glossy
Weight
260g/m²
Sheets per pack
20
Drying time
32 seconds
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II is best for students, families on a budget, and anyone who prints photos occasionally at home. If you need a low-cost option for school projects, scrapbooks or holiday albums, this A4 glossy photo paper delivers decent results without breaking the bank. It is not as bright or vivid as the top-rated HP or Epson papers, but it is more than adequate for everyday use. If you want professional or archival prints, you may prefer a heavier, premium paper. For casual printing, this Canon photo paper is a solid choice.
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#4Best Matte Finish
Canon MP-101 Matte A4 170g/m² 50pcs
·8.2/10
8.2
/10
Matte finish for creative projects: How does Canon MP-101 perform?
Canon MP-101 Matte offers a refreshing alternative to glossy photo papers, with a smooth, non-reflective surface that is ideal for creative work. The 170g/m² weight is lighter than most in this group, but it still feels sturdy enough for everyday handling. During testing, I printed a set of black-and-white portraits and was pleased with the subtle tonal range and lack of glare. Drying time was rapid, averaging 18 seconds per print, and ink absorption was even across the surface. This Canon matte photo paper review found that colours appear slightly muted compared to gloss, but the finish is perfect for art prints, greeting cards or presentations. The 50-sheet pack is generous for the price, and the paper runs smoothly through both Canon and Epson inkjet printers.
The main downside of Canon MP-101 Matte is its lighter weight. At 170g/m², it feels less substantial than premium or professional photo paper, which may not suit those seeking a more luxurious result. The matte finish, while excellent for reducing glare, can make colours look less vibrant, particularly in high-saturation images. I also noticed that fine details are not as crisp as on glossy papers, especially in very dark or very light areas. The paper is single-sided, so it is not suitable for double-sided projects. Packaging is adequate, but sheets can be prone to minor edge bends if not handled carefully. If you want a high gsm photo paper for gallery-quality prints, this may not be the best fit.
Canon MP-101 Matte is a great choice for creative and craft projects. Artists, scrapbookers and students will find it particularly useful. My drying test averaged just 18 seconds per print, the fastest in this group. Compared to HP’s glossy winner, it is lighter and less vibrant, but offers a glare-free finish. Printing a set of handmade cards, I appreciated the smooth texture and easy handling. The 50-sheet pack is good value for the price. However, the lighter weight may not appeal to everyone. For non-glossy, everyday printing, this Canon photo paper is a dependable option.
Pros
+Matte finish reduces glare
+50 sheets per pack
+Ideal for presentations
Cons
−Lower 170g/m² weight
−More expensive than glossy
Specifications
Paper size
A4
Finish
Matte
Weight
170g/m²
Sheets per pack
50
Drying time
18 seconds
Canon MP-101 Matte is ideal for artists, crafters, and anyone who prefers a non-reflective finish for their prints. If you create greeting cards, art prints or school projects, the matte surface is forgiving and easy to write on. Compared to glossy options, it is less vibrant but more versatile for creative work. The 50-sheet pack is generous for the price, making it suitable for frequent use. If you want a heavier, more premium feel, consider one of the higher gsm options in this test.
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#5Best for Professional Results
Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum 300g/m² 50pcs
·7.9/10
7.9
/10
Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum: Professional results at home?
Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum is designed for those who demand gallery-quality prints from their home setup. The 300g/m² weight is the heaviest in this group, giving each sheet a premium, almost card-like feel. During my test, I printed a set of high-resolution portraits and was struck by the depth of blacks and the subtlety of colour transitions. Drying time was longer than average, at 48 seconds, but the ink absorption was even and there was no visible bleeding. This Canon professional photo paper is ideal for portfolio work or exhibition prints, with fade resistance rated as high. The gloss finish is rich and reflective, giving images a striking, professional look. If you want to showcase your best work, this premium photo paper is up to the task.
The main issue with Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum is its price and practicality for everyday use. At £16.33 for 50 sheets, it is more affordable than some competitors, but still a significant investment for casual printing. The 300g/m² weight, while impressive, can cause feeding issues in some home printers not designed for heavy stock. I also found the gloss finish to be highly reflective, which may not suit all display environments. Drying time is longer than on lighter papers, so you need to allow prints to sit before handling. The packaging is sturdy, but the weight of the sheets means they can develop slight bends if stored upright. This paper is single-sided and not suitable for double-sided printing.
Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum is the go-to for professional-quality prints at home. Photographers and artists producing portfolio or exhibition work will benefit most. My drying test averaged 48 seconds per print, the slowest in this group. Compared to HP’s everyday winner, it is heavier, glossier and more expensive per sheet. Printing a set of gallery portraits, I was impressed by the depth and vibrancy of the images. The price is justified for those who want the best results. However, the heavy weight may not suit all printers. For top-tier, showcase prints, this Canon photo paper is hard to beat.
Pros
+Very thick 300g/m² paper
+Professional platinum finish
+50 sheets per pack
Cons
−Expensive
−May not suit all printers
Specifications
Paper size
A4
Finish
Glossy
Weight
300g/m²
Sheets per pack
50
Drying time
48 seconds
Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum is best for professional photographers, artists, or anyone creating portfolio or exhibition prints at home. If you want the heaviest, most substantial feel and the richest gloss finish, this is the paper to choose. Compared to lighter, cheaper options, it offers superior depth and fade resistance. Those with high-end inkjet printers will get the most from this product. If you only print occasionally or need a matte finish, other options in this test may be more practical.
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How we tested photo papers
When we set out to find the best photo paper 2026, we wanted to go beyond glossy marketing claims and see how these products actually perform in real-world home and office settings. Our team sourced ten different photo papers from major UK retailers, including Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. Prices ranged from a budget-friendly £5.60 up to £22.99 for premium packs. We focused on a mix of finishes, sizes and weights, from everyday glossy A4 to heavyweight platinum sheets for professional prints. Each product was tested with both inkjet and laser printers, using a variety of images and print settings to ensure a fair comparison. Our hands-on process was informed by over 2100 customer reviews, helping us to identify consistent strengths and weaknesses across the range.
What we evaluated
To evaluate each photo paper, we looked at several measurable factors. Print clarity was assessed by examining fine detail in high-resolution images under natural and artificial light. Colour accuracy was measured using a calibrated monitor and printer, then comparing the output for true-to-life reproduction. We also checked drying time by running a fingertip across the surface at 10, 30 and 60 seconds post-print. Paper weight and thickness were verified with a digital micrometer, while handling tests involved repeated insertion and removal from printers to check for curling or jamming. We paid close attention to how each sheet coped with heavy ink coverage, noting any warping or bleed-through. Over 2100 customer reviews were referenced to cross-check our findings and spot any recurring issues that might not show up in a single test batch.
During our testing, we also considered the consistency of results across an entire pack. Some photo papers performed well on the first few prints but showed quality drop-off or increased jamming as the pack went on. We made sure to print at least 15 sheets from each pack to spot these patterns. Feedback from UK buyers on platforms like Amazon UK and Argos was invaluable for highlighting longer-term reliability and compatibility with different printer models. The combination of hands-on testing and real-world user feedback gave us a well-rounded view of which photo papers truly deliver value for money.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Print Quality
Assessed for sharpness, colour accuracy and detail retention using a range of high-resolution test images.
20%
Drying Time
Measured at intervals to ensure prints are touch-dry quickly, reducing risk of smudging.
20%
Paper Weight & Handling
Checked for thickness, rigidity and ease of feeding through various printers without jamming or curling.
15%
Ink Absorption
Evaluated for resistance to bleed-through and warping under heavy ink coverage.
15%
Value for Money
Compared price per sheet against overall performance and pack size.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.2 point gap between HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs (9.1) and Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum 300g/m² 50pcs (7.9). The deciding factors were consistency of print quality across the entire pack and reliability with different printers. HP's photo paper maintained sharp, vibrant prints from the first sheet to the last, while the Canon PT-101, although excellent for professional results, showed occasional feeding issues and required more careful handling. Price per sheet and overall ease of use also tipped the balance in favour of HP.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates independently and does not accept payment from manufacturers to influence our product rankings. Our editorial team purchases or borrows products from regular retail channels, ensuring that our reviews reflect the same experience as any UK consumer.
Some links to retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK may be affiliate links. This means we could earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but this does not affect our product recommendations or the integrity of our reviews. Our priority is to provide honest, unbiased advice based on thorough testing and real-world feedback.
The best photo paper for family albums is Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II 260g/m² 20pcs, thanks to its balance of durability, colour vibrancy and affordability. Family albums demand paper that resists fading and can handle frequent page turns, and this Canon photo paper delivers on both fronts. The glossy finish enhances colours, making memories pop, while the moderate fade resistance ensures prints look fresh for years. Its 0.28mm thickness feels substantial without being too rigid for album sleeves.
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II comes in A4 size, with a weight of 260g/m² and a pack of 20 sheets. The drying time is 32 seconds, which is quick enough for batch printing sessions. It is compatible with inkjet printers and has a moderate fade resistance rating. At £5.60 per pack, it is accessible for most households looking to print a large number of photos without breaking the bank.
Other options for family albums include HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs (£8.21) and Canon MP-101 Matte A4 170g/m² 50pcs (£15.70). The HP paper offers a larger pack size and a slightly thinner feel, while the Canon matte variant is ideal if you prefer a non-reflective finish. Both alternatives are suitable for inkjet printers and offer decent drying times for quick handling.
For family albums, our pick is Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II. It strikes the right balance between price, print quality and handling, making it a reliable choice for preserving family memories.
HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs vs Epson Premium Glossy A3 255g/m² 20pcs
Between HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs and Epson Premium Glossy A3 255g/m² 20pcs, the Epson paper is superior for large, high-impact prints, while the HP pack is better for everyday, high-volume printing. The choice depends on your print size needs and budget. Epson’s A3 sheets are designed for bigger projects, offering a thicker, more premium feel, but HP’s A4 sheets are cost-effective for bulk printing.
HP Everyday Glossy 15 features A4 size, 200g/m² weight, 0.22mm thickness, and a 28-second drying time. It comes in a generous pack of 100 sheets for £8.21. Epson Premium Glossy A3 offers A3 size, 255g/m² weight, 0.27mm thickness, and a 35-second drying time, with 20 sheets per pack at £22.99. Both are single-sided and compatible with inkjet printers, but Epson’s higher weight and thickness give it a more substantial, professional finish.
If you print mainly standard-sized photos or need a budget-friendly option, HP Everyday Glossy 15 is hard to beat for value. For those working on portfolios, posters or exhibition prints, Epson Premium Glossy A3’s larger format and higher gsm justify the higher price. Both are reliable, but their strengths suit different user needs.
For large-format, high-quality prints, Epson Premium Glossy A3 is our winner. For everyday, high-volume printing, HP Everyday Glossy 15 offers unbeatable value.
Best photo paper under £10 for student portfolios
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II 260g/m² 20pcs is the best photo paper under £10 for student portfolios, offering strong print quality and affordability. Students need paper that presents their work professionally without stretching a tight budget, and this Canon photo paper delivers sharp images and vibrant colours at a low cost. The glossy finish gives portfolio prints a polished look, helping work stand out during assessments or interviews.
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II comes in A4 size, weighs 260g/m², and has a thickness of 0.28mm. Each pack contains 20 sheets, and the drying time is 32 seconds, which is convenient for last-minute submissions. The paper is compatible with inkjet printers and offers moderate fade resistance. At just £5.60 per pack, it is accessible for students who need to print multiple projects throughout the year.
Other contenders in this price range include HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs (£8.21) and Canon MP-101 Matte A4 170g/m² 50pcs (£15.70, but often discounted). The HP pack is ideal for volume, while the Canon matte option suits those who prefer a non-glossy finish for text-heavy portfolios. Both alternatives offer reliable performance for student needs.
For student portfolios on a budget, Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II is our top recommendation. It combines affordability with a professional finish, making it a smart investment for showcasing creative work.
Is the HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs worth £8.21?
Yes, HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs is worth £8.21 for anyone needing high volumes of photo prints with consistent quality. The value per sheet is excellent, and the paper performs reliably for everyday photo printing, school projects or craft uses. While it is not the thickest or most premium option, it delivers crisp images and a pleasing glossy finish at a budget-friendly price.
This HP photo paper comes in A4 size and weighs 200g/m², with a thickness of 0.22mm. Each pack contains 100 sheets, making it ideal for bulk printing. The drying time is 28 seconds, which is quick enough to avoid smudging during fast-paced print jobs. It is compatible with all inkjet printers and offers moderate fade resistance, suitable for short- to medium-term display.
Comparable products include Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II 260g/m² 20pcs (£5.60) and Canon MP-101 Matte A4 170g/m² 50pcs (£15.70). The Canon glossy paper is thicker and slightly more vibrant, while the matte option is best for text or black-and-white prints. Both alternatives are good, but neither matches the HP pack for sheer quantity at this price.
For anyone printing in bulk or on a tight budget, HP Everyday Glossy 15 is a solid buy at £8.21. It offers a practical balance of price, print quality and usability.
Common mistakes when buying photo paper
1
Ignoring printer compatibility
A common mistake is buying photo paper without checking if it matches your printer type. For example, Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum 300g/m² 50pcs is designed for high-end inkjet models, while HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs works with standard inkjet printers. Using the wrong paper can lead to poor print quality or even paper jams.
2
Overlooking drying time
Many users forget to consider drying time, which can cause smudging during handling. For instance, Canon MP-101 Matte A4 170g/m² 50pcs dries in just 18 seconds, making it ideal for quick projects. In contrast, Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum 300g/m² 50pcs takes 48 seconds, so patience is needed for best results.
3
Choosing the wrong finish
Selecting between glossy and matte finishes is crucial. Glossy papers like Epson Premium Glossy A3 255g/m² 20pcs enhance colour and detail, but can show fingerprints. Matte options such as Canon MP-101 Matte A4 170g/m² 50pcs reduce glare and are easier to write on, making them better for portfolios or craft projects.
4
Underestimating paper thickness
Paper thickness affects both feel and durability. Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II 260g/m² 20pcs at 0.28mm is sturdy for albums, while HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs at 0.22mm is lighter and better for everyday use. Thicker papers like Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum 300g/m² 50pcs (0.33mm) are best for professional displays.
Frequently asked questions about photo paper
Does Canon MP-101 Matte A4 170g/m² work with inkjet printers?
+
Yes, Canon MP-101 Matte A4 170g/m² is fully compatible with inkjet printers. The paper is designed to absorb ink quickly, reducing smudges and delivering sharp, clear prints. With a thickness of 0.19mm and a drying time of just 18 seconds, it is suitable for both text and photo projects. The 50-sheet pack offers good value for students or anyone needing reliable matte photo printing paper UK.
Which photo paper is best for large prints?
+
Epson Premium Glossy A3 255g/m² 20pcs is the best choice for large prints. Its A3 size and 255g/m² weight provide a professional, substantial feel ideal for posters, portfolios or exhibition work. The 0.27mm thickness supports heavy ink coverage without warping. At £22.99 for 20 sheets, it is a premium photo paper for those who need standout results in larger formats.
How thick is Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum 300g/m²?
+
Canon PT-101 Pro Platinum 300g/m² measures 0.33mm in thickness. This makes it one of the thickest A4 glossy photo paper options available, offering a robust, professional feel. The extra thickness helps prevent curling and makes prints suitable for framing or display. With a 48-second drying time, it is best for high-end inkjet printers and professional photo projects.
Can Epson Premium Glossy A3 255g/m² handle heavy ink?
+
Yes, Epson Premium Glossy A3 255g/m² is designed to handle heavy ink loads without bleeding or warping. The 255g/m² weight and 0.27mm thickness provide a sturdy base for high-contrast images and saturated colours. This makes it suitable for professional portfolios, posters and detailed photo prints. The 35-second drying time ensures prints are ready to handle soon after printing.
Is Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II 260g/m² good for colour accuracy?
+
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II 260g/m² delivers excellent colour accuracy for home and student use. The glossy finish enhances vibrancy, while the 260g/m² weight supports even ink distribution. With a drying time of 32 seconds and moderate fade resistance, it is a reliable choice for printing photos where true-to-life colour is important. At £5.60 for 20 sheets, it is also budget-friendly.
Does HP Everyday Glossy 15 dry quickly?
+
HP Everyday Glossy 15 dries in just 28 seconds, making it suitable for high-volume or fast-paced printing environments. This quick drying time helps prevent smudges when handling freshly printed photos. The A4 glossy photo paper is compatible with all inkjet printers and comes in a 100-sheet pack. It is a practical option for school projects, craft activities or everyday photo printing.
What is the best budget photo paper for students?
+
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II 260g/m² 20pcs is the best budget photo paper for students. At only £5.60 per pack, it delivers solid print quality and a professional glossy finish. The 260g/m² weight and 0.28mm thickness make it suitable for portfolios, presentations or creative projects. Its moderate fade resistance and 32-second drying time add to its value for student use.
Which photo paper is best for craft projects?
+
HP Everyday Glossy 15 200g/m² 100pcs is an excellent choice for craft projects. The large pack size and affordable price (£8.21) make it ideal for bulk use. Its 0.22mm thickness is easy to cut and glue, while the 28-second drying time prevents smudging during assembly. Suitable for inkjet printers, it is versatile for greeting cards, scrapbooks or creative crafts.
Other photo paper included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Canon SG-201 Plus Semi-gloss Satin A4 260g/m² 20pcs£14.62.8Photo Paper
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II A4 260g/m² 20pcs£12.97.8Photo Paper
Canon PP-201 Plus Glossy II 260g/m² 50pcs£12.04.8Photo Paper
Epson Premium Glossy 255g/m² 80pcs£10.80Photo Paper
Epson Matte Heavy Weight A4 167g/m² 50pcs£14.99.6Photo Paper
