GSM to LBS Paper Weight Conversion Chart
This chart shows the most common paper weights in both GSM and US pounds. Remember that the pound value changes depending on whether it's text, cover, or bond stock, because each category uses a different basis sheet size.
| GSM | Text (lb) | Cover (lb) | Bond (lb) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 40 | - | 16 | Lightweight flyers, inserts |
| 75 | 50 | - | 20 | Standard copy paper |
| 80 | 54 | - | 21 | Everyday printing |
| 90 | 60 | - | 24 | Double-sided printing |
| 100 | 67 | - | 27 | Letterhead, forms |
| 105 | 70 | - | 28 | Premium letterhead |
| 120 | 80 | - | 32 | Brochures, presentations |
| 150 | 100 | - | 40 | Premium brochures |
| 176 | - | 65 | 47 | Postcards, invitations |
| 216 | - | 80 | 57 | Business cards, postcards |
| 250 | - | 92 | 67 | Premium cards |
| 270 | - | 100 | 72 | Heavy invitations |
| 300 | - | 111 | 80 | Luxury cards, book covers |
| 350 | - | 130 | 93 | Packaging, thick cards |
| 400 | - | 148 | 107 | Rigid packaging |
How to Read This Chart
Find the GSM in the first column. Then look across to see the equivalent pound weight for that paper category. Note that 80 lb text and 80 lb cover are very different papers. The GSM is the same, but the thickness and stiffness differ because the basis size is different.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 80 lb text different from 80 lb cover?+
Because they use different basis sheet sizes. Text paper is measured on a 25 x 38 inch sheet. Cover paper is measured on a 20 x 26 inch sheet. So 80 pounds of text covers more area than 80 pounds of cover, making cover stock thicker.
What GSM is standard copy paper?+
Standard copy paper is 75 to 80 GSM, which equals 20 lb bond or 50 lb text in the US system.
What weight is best for business cards?+
300 to 350 GSM (111 to 130 lb cover) is standard for business cards. For a premium feel, go up to 400 GSM. Anything under 250 GSM feels flimsy for a business card.
How do I convert GSM to pounds without a chart?+
For text paper: multiply GSM by 0.371. For cover: multiply by 0.363. For bond: multiply by 0.590. The factor changes because the basis sheet size is different for each category.