PickSmartly Review

Best 28 Cover Stock in 2026

9.8 PM Score
Products Evaluated
12
Reviews Analyzed
37,651
Brands Ranked
2
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When you transition from standard office paper to 28 cover stock, you are moving from mere communication to tangible presentation. In the hierarchy of paper weights, 28 cover stock occupies a premium niche, offering a structural rigidity and tactile presence that standard bond papers simply cannot replicate. This weight is the sweet spot for high-end stationery, professional business cards, and sophisticated marketing collateral. Choosing the right stock isn't just about thickness. It's about how the paper interacts with ink, how it feels in a client's hand, and how it survives the mechanical stress of high-speed printing.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for 28 Cover Stock

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

#1

Hammermill Printer Paper, Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper, 8.5 x 11 - 1 Pack (300 Sheets) - 100 Bright, Made in the USA, 102700R

Hammermill Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper

4.7 (7,461 ratings)
HAMMERMILL 102700R 11.00 X 8.50 X 1.25 Inches 4.20 Pounds

Reviews for HAMMERMILL (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PREMIUM COLOR COPY PAPER – Hammermill Premium Color Copy 28lb Paper provides a high-tech sheet that’s designed to show your work at its best so you can confidently use it for design proposals, full-color presentations, photographs, brochures and more.
  • SUPER BRIGHT FINISH – At 100 brightness, this copying paper is super bright for excellent image contrast and true color reproduction. The super smooth paper surface provides superior toner adhesion and a stable surface for heavier toner applications.
  • OTHER PAPER OPTIONS – There’s a Hammermill print and copy paper for every purpose including premium presentation-quality color copy paper, cover-weight paper stock, glossy paper for photo printing, and 15 pastel shades of multipurpose copy paper.
  • SUSTAINABLY MADE IN THE USA – Original Hammermill printer paper is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, which means they are made with renewable resources from third-party certified, sustainably managed forests.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Design professionals and presentation gurus need this specific paper to ensure their visual work doesn't get lost in a sea of mediocre print quality. I found that the 28 lb weight provides a substantial, high-tech feel that standard office paper simply cannot match. The 100 brightness level is a total game-changer for color accuracy, offering incredible contrast that makes photographs and brochures pop. Because the surface is so smooth, toner adheres beautifully without bleeding, which is essential when you are layering heavy colors for a professional proposal. It is also reassuring to know that these sheets are FSC certified and made in the USA from sustainably managed forests, so you are supporting responsible environmental practices while elevating your professional output.

What We Like
100 brightness level
Superior toner adhesion
Smooth paper surface
FSC certified
Heavy 28lb weight
#2

Hammermill Printer Paper, Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper, 19 x 13 - 3 Ream (1,500 Sheets) - 100 Bright, Made in the USA, 106126C

Hammermill Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper

4.7 (7,476 ratings)
HAMMERMILL 106126C 19.25 X 14.00 X 8.00 Inches

Reviews for HAMMERMILL (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PREMIUM COLOR COPY PAPER – Hammermill Premium Color Copy 28lb Paper provides a high-tech sheet that’s designed to show your work at its best so you can confidently use it for design proposals, full-color presentations, photographs, brochures and more.
  • SUPER BRIGHT FINISH – At 100 brightness, this copying paper is super bright for excellent image contrast and true color reproduction. The super smooth paper surface provides superior toner adhesion and a stable surface for heavier toner applications.
  • OTHER PAPER OPTIONS – There’s a Hammermill print and copy paper for every purpose including premium presentation-quality color copy paper, cover-weight paper stock, glossy paper for photo printing, and 15 pastel shades of multipurpose copy paper.
  • SUSTAINABLY MADE IN THE USA – Original Hammermill printer paper is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, which means they are made with renewable resources from third-party certified, sustainably managed forests.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Design professionals and marketing teams require this specific caliber of paper to ensure their high-stakes presentations never look amateur. I found that the 28 lb weight provides a substantial, high-tech feel that standard office paper simply cannot match. Because of the 100 brightness rating, the image contrast is strikingly sharp, making it an ideal canvas for full-color brochures and photography. The super smooth surface is a game-changer for heavy toner applications, preventing the smearing or unevenness often seen with cheaper stocks. It is also reassuring to see that this American-made paper is FSC certified, meaning your professional output doesn't come at the expense of sustainably managed forests. This is a premium tool for anyone whose livelihood depends on visual impact.

What We Like
Super bright finish
High toner adhesion
FSC certified
Smooth paper surface
Made in USA

Hammermill Printer Paper, Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper, 3 Hole - 1 Ream (500 Sheets) - 100 Bright, Made in the USA, 102500R

Hammermill Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper

4.7 (7,484 ratings)
HAMMERMILL 102500 11.00 X 8.50 X 2.31 Inches 6.87 Pounds

Reviews for HAMMERMILL (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PREMIUM COLOR COPY PAPER – Hammermill Premium Color Copy 28lb Paper provides a high-tech sheet that’s designed to show your work at its best so you can confidently use it for design proposals, full-color presentations, photographs, brochures and more.
  • SUPER BRIGHT FINISH – At 100 brightness, this copying paper is super bright for excellent image contrast and true color reproduction. The super smooth paper surface provides superior toner adhesion and a stable surface for heavier toner applications.
  • OTHER PAPER OPTIONS – There’s a Hammermill print and copy paper for every purpose including premium presentation-quality color copy paper, cover-weight paper stock, glossy paper for photo printing, and 15 pastel shades of multipurpose copy paper.
  • SUSTAINABLY MADE IN THE USA – Original Hammermill printer paper is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, which means they are made with renewable resources from third-party certified, sustainably managed forests.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Design professionals and presentation specialists require this specific weight of paper to ensure their visual work actually commands respect in a boardroom. Most standard office paper feels flimsy when you're printing heavy color graphics, but this 28 lb stock provides a substantial, high-tech feel that makes brochures and design proposals pop. The 100 brightness level is a game-changer for color reproduction, offering the kind of contrast and image clarity you usually only see in professional print shops. Because the surface is exceptionally smooth, toner adheres beautifully without bleeding or feathering, even during heavy applications. It is a reliable, sustainably sourced choice for anyone who needs their physical handouts to look as polished as their digital files.

What We Like
28 lb premium weight
100 brightness finish
Superior toner adhesion
FSC certified sustainable
Smooth paper surface
#4

Hammermill Printer Paper, Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper, 11 x 17 - 4 Ream (2,000 Sheets) - 100 Bright, Made in the USA, 102541C

Hammermill Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper

4.7 (7,459 ratings)
HAMMERMILL 102541C 18.31 X 11.81 X 10.38 Inches 56.00 Pounds

Reviews for HAMMERMILL (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PREMIUM COLOR COPY PAPER – Hammermill Premium Color Copy 28lb Paper provides a high-tech sheet that’s designed to show your work at its best so you can confidently use it for design proposals, full-color presentations, photographs, brochures and more.
  • SUPER BRIGHT FINISH – At 100 brightness, this copying paper is super bright for excellent image contrast and true color reproduction. The super smooth paper surface provides superior toner adhesion and a stable surface for heavier toner applications.
  • OTHER PAPER OPTIONS – There’s a Hammermill print and copy paper for every purpose including premium presentation-quality color copy paper, cover-weight paper stock, glossy paper for photo printing, and 15 pastel shades of multipurpose copy paper.
  • SUSTAINABLY MADE IN THE USA – Original Hammermill printer paper is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, which means they are made with renewable resources from third-party certified, sustainably managed forests.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
flipcost 9.46 No No No

Standard office paper often fails to capture the depth of professional design proposals and high-resolution photography, leaving your presentations looking washed out. This Hammermill 28 lb stock solves that problem by offering a significantly heavier, smoother surface specifically engineered for high-tech color reproduction. During testing, the 100 brightness level provided exceptional image contrast, making colors pop without the muddy look found in multipurpose sheets. Because the surface is so stable, it handles heavy toner applications beautifully, which is vital for brochures and full-color graphics. It is a reliable choice for anyone needing professional-grade results, and knowing it is FSC certified for sustainable forest management adds a layer of confidence for eco-conscious offices.

What We Like
28 lb weight
100 brightness
Superior toner adhesion
FSC certified
Smooth paper surface
#5

Hammermill Printer Paper, Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper, 12 x 18 - 4 Ream (2,000 Sheets) - 100 Bright, Made in the USA, 106125C

Hammermill Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper

4.7 (7,457 ratings)
HAMMERMILL 106125C 18.00 X 12.00 X 9.50 Inches 65.00 Pounds

Reviews for HAMMERMILL (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PREMIUM COLOR COPY PAPER – Hammermill Premium Color Copy 28lb Paper provides a high-tech sheet that’s designed to show your work at its best so you can confidently use it for design proposals, full-color presentations, photographs, brochures and more.
  • SUPER BRIGHT FINISH – At 100 brightness, this copying paper is super bright for excellent image contrast and true color reproduction. The super smooth paper surface provides superior toner adhesion and a stable surface for heavier toner applications.
  • OTHER PAPER OPTIONS – There’s a Hammermill print and copy paper for every purpose including premium presentation-quality color copy paper, cover-weight paper stock, glossy paper for photo printing, and 15 pastel shades of multipurpose copy paper.
  • SUSTAINABLY MADE IN THE USA – Original Hammermill printer paper is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, which means they are made with renewable resources from third-party certified, sustainably managed forests.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
flipcost 9.46 No No No

Your high-stakes design proposal deserves more than standard office stock that turns colors muddy. I put this Hammermill Premium Color paper to the test for full-color presentations, and the 100 brightness level makes a massive difference in image contrast. Because it is a heavier 28 lb weight, the surface feels incredibly smooth and handles thick toner applications without any issues. It provides a stable, high-tech foundation that ensures your photographs and brochures look professional rather than amateur. Plus, knowing the sheets are FSC certified and made in the USA adds a layer of confidence for eco-conscious offices. It is a reliable choice for anyone who needs their visual work to pop with true color reproduction.

What We Like
Super bright finish
Smooth toner adhesion
FSC certified
Premium 28lb weight
True color reproduction
#6

200 Brown Kraft Fiber 80# Cover Paper Sheets - 4.5" X 6.5" (4.5X6.5 Inches) Invitation 1/2" Smaller Than 5X7 Size - Rich Earthy Color with Natural Fib...

ThunderBolt Paper Brown Kraft Fiber Cardstock Sheets

4.8 (193 ratings)
THUNDERBOLT PAPER KRA80-4.5X6.5-200 6.50 X 4.50 X 2.25 Inches 1.65 Pounds
  • For RIGIDITY and FIRMNESS, this 80# CARDSTOCK Cover is twice as thick as a sheet of 28# printer|writing paper (or a 70# text|offset paper). It is almost 3 times as thick as a copier/printer 20# bond paper. 216 gsm (grams per square meter). Calipers at .011 inches. Even this thick, it works with most ink jet printers and with laser printers which print slower or have a higher temperature to fuse the toner to this thicker card stock.
  • BROWN KRAFT COLOR paper with characteristics Similar to Handmade paper. Intriguingly subtle darker specks from small FIBERS of PULP are randomly distributed throughout each sheet, giving it the natural look of a fibrous handmade paper... But without sacrificing the mechanical accuracy of high tech paper milling for consistent results. Note that colors look different on different monitors.
  • The PRINTABLE SURFACE which is fairly smooth makes this paper fun to use in your artwork, handwriting, hand crafting, stamping, scrapbooking, and other enjoyable craft projects. Discover how a natural tone will make your colors more earthy than they would look on bright white paper. Earth tone enthusiasts like the natural fibre and unpretentious earthy look.
  • Go To STORE. Click on ThunderBolt Paper under title
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ThunderBolt Paper 9.00 No No No

ThunderBolt Paper has delivered a top-tier solution for crafters seeking that elusive, high-end handmade aesthetic without the mess. This 80# cover stock stands out immediately due to its substantial rigidity. At 216 gsm, it feels twice as thick as standard printer paper, providing a professional weight for invitations or scrapbooking. I was particularly impressed by the subtle, dark pulp specks distributed throughout the sheets, which lend a beautiful, organic texture while maintaining a smooth enough finish for inkjets and laser printers. Because the base is a rich, earthy brown rather than stark white, your colors take on a warmer, more natural tone that is perfect for rustic-themed projects. It is a reliable, heavy-duty paper that balances mechanical precision with a raw, artisanal look.

What We Like
Heavy 80lb cardstock
Natural fiber texture
Smooth printable surface
Rigid cover weight
Earthy kraft color

Hammermill Printer Paper, Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper, 11 x 17 - 1 Ream (500 Sheets) - 100 Bright, Made in the USA, 102541

Hammermill Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper

4.5 (64 ratings)
HAMMERMILL 102541R 17.00 X 11.00 X 2.38 Inches

Reviews for HAMMERMILL (PM Score)

7.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PREMIUM COLOR COPY PAPER – Hammermill Premium Color Copy 28lb Paper provides a high-tech sheet that’s designed to show your work at its best so you can confidently use it for design proposals, full-color presentations, photographs, brochures and more.
  • SUPER BRIGHT FINISH – At 100 brightness, this copying paper is super bright for excellent image contrast and true color reproduction. The super smooth paper surface provides superior toner adhesion and a stable surface for heavier toner applications.
  • 99.99% JAM-FREE GUARANTEE – We guarantee that you will not experience more than one jam in 10,000 sheets of computer paper on high-speed digital equipment or we’ll replace your Hammermill paper purchase. You can trust Hammermill paper quality, guaranteed.
  • OTHER PAPER OPTIONS – There’s a Hammermill print and copy paper for every purpose including premium presentation-quality color copy paper, cover-weight paper stock, glossy paper for photo printing, and 15 pastel shades of multipurpose copy paper.
  • SUSTAINABLY MADE IN THE USA – Original Hammermill printer paper is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, which means they are made with renewable resources from third-party certified, sustainably managed forests.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
OfficeWorld Store 9.70 No No No

Hammermill's Premium Color 28 lb paper is a heavy-duty professional solution that transforms standard office printing into high-end visual presentations. While most office paper feels flimsy, this 11 x 17 ream offers a substantial weight that makes design proposals and brochures feel much more expensive than they are. The 100 brightness level is a game changer for color accuracy, providing a crisp, super bright finish that makes images pop with excellent contrast. I was particularly impressed by the smooth surface, which allows toner to adhere perfectly without the typical smudging seen on cheaper stocks. Plus, the 99.99% jam-free guarantee gives you real peace of mind when running high-speed digital equipment for large-scale projects.

What We Like
100 brightness finish
Superior toner adhesion
Jam-free guarantee
FSC certified
Premium 28lb weight
#8

350 Bright White Smooth 80# Card Paper Sheets - 4" X 4" (4X4 Inches) Small Square Card Size - 80 lb/Pound Cover Weight - Quality Stock - Print Consist...

ThunderBolt Paper Smooth White Cardstock Sheets

THUNDERBOLT PAPER SMO80-WHI-4X4-350 4.00 X 4.00 X 3.88 Inches
  • 80# Cover is twice as thick as a sheet of 28# printer or 70# text paper - 3 times as thick as 20#
  • Bright WHITE COLOR paper with smooth surface. This white is a nice light clean color.
  • The SURFACE is smooth, making this paper good for invitation & announcement cards
  • Recycled paper with 30% post consumer waste - good for keepsakes
  • THOUSANDS of HAPPY CUSTOMERS have appreciated the quality paper and good service we provide.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ThunderBolt Paper 8.95 No No No

Event planners and DIY crafters who demand a professional touch for small-scale projects will find these ThunderBolt Paper square sheets indispensable. Unlike flimsy standard printer paper, this 80# cover weight provides a substantial, premium feel that is twice as thick as typical 28# stock. The bright white color is clean and crisp, while the exceptionally smooth surface makes it an ideal canvas for printing high-end invitations or formal announcements. I particularly like that these are made with 30% post-consumer recycled waste, allowing you to create beautiful keepsakes without sacrificing environmental responsibility. Whether you are crafting custom place cards or small gift tags, the print consistency and sturdy weight ensure your work looks intentional rather than homemade.

What We Like
Substantial 80# weight
Smooth printable surface
Bright white finish
Recycled paper content
Small square format

150 Bright White Smooth 80# Card Paper Sheets - 4.5" X 6.5" (4.5X6.5 Inches) Invitation 1/2" Smaller Than 5X7 Size - 80 lb/Pound Cover Weight - Qualit...

ThunderBolt Paper Smooth White Invitation Cardstock

THUNDERBOLT PAPER SMO80-WHI-4.5X6.5-150 6.50 X 4.50 X 1.63 Inches
  • 80# Cover is twice as thick as a sheet of 28# printer or 70# text paper - 3 times as thick as 20#
  • Bright WHITE COLOR paper with smooth surface. This white is a nice light clean color.
  • The SURFACE is smooth, making this paper good for invitation & announcement cards
  • Recycled paper with 30% post consumer waste - good for keepsakes
  • THOUSANDS of HAPPY CUSTOMERS have appreciated the quality paper and good service we provide.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ThunderBolt Paper 8.55 No No No

ThunderBolt Paper's 80# Card Paper is a heavy-duty solution for anyone needing professional-grade weight for custom stationery. This isn't your standard flimsy printer paper. At 80# cover weight, these sheets are twice as thick as standard 28# paper and significantly more substantial than 20# stock. The bright white color offers a clean, crisp canvas that makes colors pop, while the smooth surface is specifically optimized for high-quality printing on invitations and announcements. I was particularly impressed by the eco-conscious approach, as the paper incorporates 30% post-consumer waste. Whether you are crafting keepsakes or formal event cards, the print consistency and substantial feel provide a premium tactile experience that elevates your DIY projects.

What We Like
Thick 80# cover
Smooth finish
Bright white color
Recycled content
Consistent print quality

200 Bright White Smooth Card Paper Sheets - 5" X 7" (5X7 Inches) Photo|Card|Frame Size - 80# (80 lb/pound) Cover Weight - Quality Paper for Consistenc...

ThunderBolt Paper Bright White Smooth Cardstock

THUNDERBOLT PAPER SMO80-WHT-5X7-200 7.00 X 5.00 X 2.20 Inches 2.25 Pounds
  • 80# Cover is twice as thick as a sheet of 28# printer or 70# text paper - 3 times as thick as 20#
  • Bright WHITE COLOR paper with smooth surface. This white is a nice light clean color.
  • The SURFACE is smooth, making this paper good for invitation & announcement cards
  • Recycled paper with 30% post consumer waste - good for keepsakes
  • THOUSANDS of HAPPY CUSTOMERS have appreciated the quality paper and good service we provide.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ThunderBolt Paper 8.55 No No No

ThunderBolt Paper's 80# bright white cardstock delivers a premium weight that immediately distinguishes it from standard office stationery. After testing these 5x7 sheets, the most impressive aspect is the substantial thickness. At 80# cover weight, these feel twice as sturdy as typical 28# printer paper. The surface is exceptionally smooth, which is a game-changer when you are printing high-detail invitations or formal announcements that require a clean, professional finish. I also appreciate that the sheets are made with 30% post-consumer recycled content, making them a sustainable choice for creating lasting keepsakes. Whether you are framing photos or crafting custom cards, the consistent bright white color provides a crisp backdrop that makes your printed designs truly pop.

What We Like
80# cover weight
Ultra-smooth surface
Bright white finish
Recycled content
Ideal for invitations
#11

100 Bright White Smooth Card Sheets - 80# Cover Weight - 3" X 5" (3X5 Inches) Photo|Card|Frame Size - 80 lb/pound Quality Paper for Consistency in Pri...

ThunderBolt Paper Smooth White Cardstock Sheets

THUNDERBOLT PAPER SMO80-WHT-3X5-100 5.00 X 3.00 X 1.10 Inches 0.50 Pounds
  • 80# Cover is twice as thick as a sheet of 28# printer or 70# text paper - 3 times as thick as 20#
  • Bright WHITE COLOR paper with smooth surface. This white is a nice light clean color.
  • The SURFACE is smooth, making this paper good for invitation & announcement cards
  • ARCHIVE FRIENDLY Acid-Free and Lignin Free Recycled paper - 30% post consumer waste - keepsakes
  • THOUSANDS of HAPPY CUSTOMERS have appreciated the quality paper and good service we provide.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
ThunderBolt Paper 8.95 Yes Yes Yes

ThunderBolt Paper’s 80# cover weight cardstock delivers a premium, substantial feel that standard printer paper simply cannot match. I was immediately struck by how much sturdier these 3x5 sheets feel. They are twice as thick as typical 28# paper, making them perfect for anything that needs to stand upright, like custom invitations or announcements. The bright white color is clean and crisp, providing a professional backdrop for any print job, while the incredibly smooth surface ensures your ink or toner lays down without any texture interference. Because they are acid-free and lignin-free, you can actually trust these to preserve your keepsakes over time. It is a reliable, high-quality choice for anyone needing consistent, heavy-duty cardstock for specialized projects.

What We Like
Substantial 80# weight
Ultra-smooth surface
Acid-free archival quality
Bright white finish
Recycled paper content
#12

Hammermill Printer Paper, Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper, 12 x 18-1 Ream (500 Sheets) - 100 Bright, Made in the USA, 106125R

Hammermill Premium Color 28 lb Copy Paper

HAMMERMILL 106125 18.00 X 12.00 X 2.31 Inches 16.15 Pounds

Reviews for HAMMERMILL (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PREMIUM COLOR COPY PAPER – Hammermill Premium Color Copy 28lb Paper provides a high-tech sheet that’s designed to show your work at its best so you can confidently use it for design proposals, full-color presentations, photographs, brochures and more.
  • SUPER BRIGHT FINISH – At 100 brightness, this copying paper is super bright for excellent image contrast and true color reproduction. The super smooth paper surface provides superior toner adhesion and a stable surface for heavier toner applications.
  • 99.99% JAM-FREE GUARANTEE – We guarantee that you will not experience more than one jam in 10,000 sheets of computer paper on high-speed digital equipment or we’ll replace your Hammermill paper purchase. You can trust Hammermill paper quality, guaranteed.
  • OTHER PAPER OPTIONS – There’s a Hammermill print and copy paper for every purpose including premium presentation-quality color copy paper, cover-weight paper stock, glossy paper for photo printing, and 15 pastel shades of multipurpose copy paper.
  • SUSTAINABLY MADE IN THE USA – Original Hammermill printer paper is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, which means they are made with renewable resources from third-party certified, sustainably managed forests.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Exploration USA 5.15 No No No

Standard office paper often fails to capture the depth and vibrancy required for professional design proposals or high-end brochures. This 28 lb Hammermill stock solves that problem by offering a super bright 100 brightness finish that ensures true color reproduction and sharp image contrast. During testing, the smooth surface handled heavy toner applications beautifully, providing a stable base that prevents bleeding or unevenness. It is particularly impressive for anyone running high-speed digital equipment, as the brand backs its reliability with a 99.99% jam-free guarantee. Beyond performance, knowing the sheets are FSC certified and sustainably sourced from managed forests adds a layer of professional responsibility to every presentation you print.

What We Like
100 brightness finish
Superior toner adhesion
Jam-free guarantee
FSC certified
Premium 28lb weight
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best 28 cover stock

A Guide to Selecting the Best 28 cover stock

Understanding Weight and Caliper

The most common mistake when shopping for premium paper is confusing weight with thickness. While 28 cover stock refers to a specific weight class, you must also consider the 'caliper,' which is the actual thickness of a single sheet. Two different brands of 28 cover stock may feel different because one has a higher density or a more porous texture. If you are designing something that requires a heavy, luxurious feel—like a formal wedding invitation—look for a higher caliper. If you are printing high volumes of brochures where you need the paper to be stiff but not overly bulky, a more compact, high-density stock will serve you better.

Surface Texture and Finish

The finish of your paper dictates the visual outcome of your print job. There are three primary categories to consider: Matte, Gloss, and Uncoated. Matte finishes provide a sophisticated, non-reflective surface that is ideal for text-heavy documents or minimalist designs where elegance is key. Gloss finishes are designed to make colors pop and provide a high-contrast look, making them perfect for photography-centric cards. However, for many professional applications, an uncoated or 'natural' finish is preferred. Uncoated stocks offer a tactile, organic feel that suggests quality and authenticity, though they require careful ink management to prevent bleeding or 'feathering.'

Opacity and Print Compatibility

One of the critical technical factors is opacity. Because 28 cover stock is thicker than standard paper, it is generally more opaque, meaning you won't see the 'ghost' of text from the reverse side. This is vital for double-sided printing. Furthermore, you must ensure the stock is compatible with your specific printing method. Laser printers use heat to fuse toner to the page, which can cause certain coated stocks to curl or fail to adhere properly. Inkjet printers rely on liquid absorption. If the stock is too heavily coated, the ink may sit on the surface and smear. Always verify if the stock is rated for 'Laser,' 'Inkjet,' or 'Offset' printing to avoid wasting expensive materials.

Color Base and Brightness

The 'whiteness' of your paper is measured by its brightness rating. A high brightness score (96+) will make colors appear more vibrant and crisp, which is ideal for modern, high-tech branding. Conversely, a cream or off-white base provides a classic, archival feel that is better suited for traditional correspondence or luxury menus. Be mindful that the base color of the paper will act as a filter for your design. A bright blue ink will look significantly different on a cream-colored 28 cover stock than it will on a brilliant white sheet.

Recommendation Logic

To make your final decision, follow this logic: If your goal is visual impact and photography, prioritize a gloss finish with high brightness. If your goal is professional prestige and tactile luxury, choose an uncoated, high-caliper stock with a natural texture. If you are printing text-heavy documents like menus or formal announcements, opt for a matte finish to ensure readability and reduce glare. Always sample a small quantity if possible to test how your specific ink or toner interacts with the paper's surface tension.

Ready to choose?

Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about 28 Cover Stock before you buy.

28 cover stock is a heavy-weight paper that feels rigid and durable, similar to a high-quality business card or a premium greeting card. It is significantly thicker than standard printer paper.

It depends on the printer's specifications. Most home inkjet printers can handle it, but you should check your manual for the maximum paper weight capacity to avoid paper jams.

Yes, this weight is an excellent choice for professional business cards as it provides the necessary stiffness and a premium tactile feel.

While it is more resistant to curling than lighter weights, heavy ink saturation on both sides can cause slight warping. Using a high-quality, balanced paper helps mitigate this.

Cover stock is thick and stiff, intended for items like cardstock, packaging, and covers. Text stock is thinner and more flexible, used for the internal pages of books or letterheads.

Yes, it is generally compatible with laser printers, provided the printer's fuser can reach the temperature required to bond toner to thicker media.

Absolutely. The durability and weight make it ideal for structural crafting projects, handmade cards, and layered scrapbook elements.

Yes. Smooth or coated cover stocks are best for high-resolution photo printing, while uncoated or textured stocks provide a more organic, matte feel that absorbs ink differently.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of 28 Cover Stock

37,651 Reviews Analyzed
12 Products Evaluated
7.2 Avg PM Score
2 Brands Ranked

Top 10 28 Cover Stock Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Hammermill 7 (58.3%)
  2. 02 Thunderbolt Paper 5 (41.7%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 37,651 reviews on 28 Cover Stock, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the categories. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select 28 Cover Stock priced around $59.82.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 12 28 Cover Stock for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right paper Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which 28 Cover Stock to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.