What the weight means
The g/m² figure describes the weight of one square metre of paper. Standard copy paper is 80 g/m², high-quality letter paper 90–120 g/m². From about 160 g/m² it counts as card.
The common classes compared
| Weight | Character | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 70–80 g/m² | standard, slightly translucent | everyday letters, internal mail |
| 90–100 g/m² | sturdier, less transparent | business letters, applications |
| 110–120 g/m² | premium, stiff | certificates, official invitations |
Weight and postage: the connection
A standard letter in Germany may weigh up to 20 g. Three sheets of 80 g paper plus an envelope stay just under that; with 100 g paper often only two sheets fit. Longer letters on heavy paper slip into the next postage class. Online mailing services weigh and frank automatically — a practical advantage for multi-page letters.
Paper and printer: what matters
- Laser printers need heat-resistant paper; coated inkjet papers can smear.
- Inkjet printers benefit from matte, quick-drying paper so the ink doesn't bleed.
- Recycled paper works in both but is often greyish and rougher.
The impression on the recipient
Studies on letter impact show: heavy, white paper signals value and is less often set aside unread. For terminations or reminders that's secondary — for applications, offers and customer letters it can make the difference. Professional online print services use high-quality 90–100 g paper by default, so you don't have to worry about these details.
Write your letter online — printed on quality paper and mailed