PickSmartly Review

Best 97 Inkjet Printer Paper in 2026

10.0 PM Score
Products Evaluated
8
Reviews Analyzed
24,390
Brands Ranked
4
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When you are printing high-stakes documents, color-heavy presentations, or professional portfolios, the quality of your ink is only half the equation. The paper serves as the foundation for every droplet of pigment, and choosing the wrong stock can lead to muddy colors, ink bleeding, or unsightly feathering. Specifically, when looking for high-performance inkjet paper, you are searching for a substrate that balances absorption rates with surface smoothness to ensure your printer's precision heads deliver crisp, vibrant results. This guide will help you navigate the technical nuances of paper weight, coating, and brightness to ensure your print jobs look professional every time.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for 97 Inkjet Printer Paper

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

Hammermill Printer Paper, Premium Inkjet & Laser Paper 24 Lb, 8.5 x 11 - 5 Ream (2,500 Sheets) - 97 Bright, Made in the USA, 166140C

Hammermill Premium Inkjet and Laser Printer Paper

4.8 (16,954 ratings)
HAMMERMILL 166140C 11.94 X 9.38 X 11.50 Inches

Reviews for HAMMERMILL (PM Score)

10.0 PM Score
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  • PREMIUM PRINTER PAPER – Hammermill Premium Inkjet & Laser 24lb Printer Paper is a versatile sheet that’s perfect for double-sided inkjet or laser printed projects. With a 97 brightness & blue-white shade, you get consistently sharp, clear images.
  • COLORLOK TECHNOLOGY – This computer paper features ColorLok Technology for colors that are 30% brighter, blacks that are 60% bolder and ink that dries 3x faster. This white copy paper will provide consistently superior results.
  • PERFECT FOR PRINTING – This multi-purpose copier paper is designed to run smoothly through all office equipment for professional results when printing newsletters, flyers, reports, memos, and more. It’s also acid-free paper to prevent yellowing over time.
  • 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

Hammermill has established itself as a gold standard for versatile office paper, and this 24lb premium stock is a standout for anyone tired of dull, smudged documents. During testing, the ColorLok Technology really proved its worth, delivering blacks that feel significantly bolder and colors that pop with much more vibrancy than standard multipurpose sheets. Because the ink dries three times faster, you can breeze through double-sided reports without worrying about messy bleed-through or damp pages. The 97 brightness provides a crisp, blue-white backdrop that makes professional flyers and memos look sharp. It runs smoothly through both inkjet and laser printers, and since it is acid-free, your important files won't turn yellow as they age. It is a reliable, sustainably sourced choice for a high-functioning workspace.

What We Like
ColorLok Technology
Fast drying ink
Acid-free longevity
97 brightness level
FSC certified
#2

Accent Opaque White Printer Paper, 8.5” x 11” 28lb Bond/70lb Text Copy Paper – 2,000 Sheets (8 Ream) – Premium Computer Paper with Smooth Finish, 97 B...

Accent Opaque White Premium Printer Paper

4.5 (1,752 ratings)
ACCENT 109363C 17.75 X 11.75 X 11.00 Inches 55.00 Pounds

Reviews for ACCENT (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
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  • PREMIUM PRINTER PAPER – At 97 bright white, our Accent Opaque 28lb Bond/70lb Text White Copy Paper is brighter than most printer & copying papers. It has a smooth, level surface that results in consistently crisp, vibrant prints with minimal show-through.
  • FOR EVERYDAY PROJECTS – This multipurpose white paper is ideal for black and white/color printing, documents, flyers, school projects, booklets, newsletters & more. It’s guaranteed to run on small and large offset presses, copiers & inkjet/laser printers.
  • SUSTAINABLY SOURCED – Accent papers are 100% made in the USA and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. When you buy Accent printer paper, you are helping replant forests and support sustainable forestry jobs for landowners in America.
  • HIGH-QUALITY PRINT PERFORMANCE – This smooth paper features quick ink-drying characteristics for brighter colors and bolder blacks, as well as bleed-free double-sided prints. This computer paper is acid-free to prevent yellowing over time.
  • PAIRS WELL WITH OTHER ACCENT PAPER – For a consistent look to your project, pair this 28lb copier paper with Accent cardstock paper. Look for our complete line of text weight and cover weight papers in super smooth, smooth and vellum finishes.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Limited Papers® 9.74 No No No

Most people assume all white paper is created equal until they try to print a high-stakes presentation on thin, grayish stock. Accent Opaque changes that dynamic by delivering a 97 bright white finish that actually makes colors pop and blacks look deep. Since this is a 28lb bond paper, it feels noticeably more substantial than your standard copier paper, providing a smooth surface that prevents ink from bleeding or showing through on the flip side. It handles everything from inkjet to laser printers without a hitch, making it a reliable workhorse for newsletters or school projects. I particularly like that it is acid-free, so your important documents won't turn brittle or yellow over time. It is a professional-grade choice for anyone tired of flimsy, dull office supplies.

What We Like
97 bright white
Smooth matte finish
Quick ink-drying
Acid-free longevity
FSC certified

Accent Opaque White Printer Paper, 11” x 17” 40lb Bond/100lb Text Copy Paper – 250 Sheets (1 Ream) – Premium Smooth Finish Computer Paper, 97 Bright,...

Accent Opaque White Premium Printer Paper

4.5 (1,752 ratings)
ACCENT 188081R 17.00 X 11.00 X 1.90 Inches

Reviews for ACCENT (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
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  • PREMIUM PRINTER PAPER – At 97 bright white, our Accent Opaque 40lb Bond/100lb Text White Copy Paper is brighter than most printer/copying papers. It has a smooth, level surface that results in consistently crisp, vibrant prints with minimal show-through.
  • SUSTAINABLY SOURCED – Accent papers are 100% made in the USA and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. When you buy Accent printer paper, you are helping replant forests and support sustainable forestry jobs for landowners in America.
  • HIGH-QUALITY PRINT PERFORMANCE – This smooth paper features quick ink-drying characteristics for brighter colors and bolder blacks, as well as bleed-free double-sided prints. This computer paper is acid-free to prevent yellowing over time.
  • PAIRS WELL WITH OTHER ACCENT PAPER – For a consistent look to your project, pair this 40lb copier paper with Accent cardstock paper. Look for our complete line of text weight and cover weight papers in super smooth, smooth and vellum finishes.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Limited Papers® 9.74 No No No

Accent Opaque White Printer Paper delivers a striking 97 bright white finish that immediately elevates standard document printing. I found that the smooth, level surface is a game-changer for anyone tired of muddy colors or ink bleeding through to the other side. Because this 148gsm paper features quick ink-drying characteristics, your blacks stay bold and your colors remain vibrant without the typical smudge factor. It is an acid-free option, so you won't have to worry about your important reports turning yellow over time. Plus, knowing it is FSC certified and made in the USA adds a layer of confidence for the eco-conscious professional. If you need to maintain a cohesive look for large projects, this text weight paper pairs seamlessly with the rest of the Accent cardstock line.

What We Like
97 bright white
Quick ink-drying
Acid-free longevity
FSC certified
Smooth finish

Accent Opaque White Printer Paper, 8.5” x 11” 28lb Bond/70lb Text Copy Paper – 500 Sheets (1 Ream) – Premium Computer Paper with Smooth Finish, 97 Bri...

Accent Opaque Premium White Printer Paper

4.5 (1,768 ratings)
ACCENT 109363R 11.00 X 8.50 X 2.25 Inches 6.76 Pounds

Reviews for ACCENT (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PREMIUM PRINTER PAPER – At 97 bright white, our Accent Opaque 28lb Bond/70lb Text White Copy Paper is brighter than most printer & copying papers. It has a smooth, level surface that results in consistently crisp, vibrant prints with minimal show-through.
  • SUSTAINABLY SOURCED – Accent papers are 100% made in the USA and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. When you buy Accent printer paper, you are helping replant forests and support sustainable forestry jobs for landowners in America.
  • HIGH-QUALITY PRINT PERFORMANCE – This smooth paper features quick ink-drying characteristics for brighter colors and bolder blacks, as well as bleed-free double-sided prints. This computer paper is acid-free to prevent yellowing over time.
  • PAIRS WELL WITH OTHER ACCENT PAPER – For a consistent look to your project, pair this 28lb copier paper with Accent cardstock paper. Look for our complete line of text weight and cover weight papers in super smooth, smooth and vellum finishes.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Does your current office paper make your professional documents look dull or washed out? I found that the Accent Opaque White paper significantly elevates the standard for everyday printing by offering a 97 bright white finish that truly pops. Because it sits at a heavier 28lb bond weight, it feels much more substantial than your typical copier paper, providing a smooth surface that prevents ink from bleeding. I was particularly impressed by the quick-drying characteristics, which keep colors vibrant and blacks bold without the dreaded show-through on double-sided pages. Plus, knowing it is acid-free and FSC certified means your important reports won't yellow over time and you're supporting sustainable forestry in the USA. It is a reliable, high-performance choice for anyone needing consistent, crisp results.

What We Like
97 bright white
Quick ink-drying
Acid-free formula
FSC certified
Smooth finish

Accent Opaque White Printer Paper, 12” x 18” 20lb Bond/50lb Text Copy Paper – 2,500 Sheets (5 Reams) – Premium Computer Paper with Smooth Finish, 97 B...

Accent Opaque White Premium Printer Paper

4.5 (1,759 ratings)
ACCENT 188082C 18.25 X 12.25 X 10.30 Inches 56.81 Pounds

Reviews for ACCENT (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • PREMIUM PRINTER PAPER – At 97 bright white, our Accent Opaque 20lb Bond/50lb Text White Copy Paper is brighter than most printer & copying papers. It has a smooth, level surface that results in consistently crisp, vibrant prints with minimal show-through.
  • SUSTAINABLY SOURCED – Accent papers are 100% made in the USA and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. When you buy Accent printer paper, you are helping replant forests and support sustainable forestry jobs for landowners in America.
  • HIGH-QUALITY PRINT PERFORMANCE – This smooth paper features quick ink-drying characteristics for brighter colors and bolder blacks, as well as bleed-free double-sided prints. This computer paper is acid-free to prevent yellowing over time.
  • PAIRS WELL WITH OTHER ACCENT PAPER – For a consistent look to your project, pair this 20lb copier paper with Accent cardstock paper. Look for our complete line of text weight and cover weight papers in super smooth, smooth and vellum finishes.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Professional print shops and high-volume creative studios require this specific 12” x 18” paper to bridge the gap between standard office sheets and high-end presentation stock. I found that the 97 bright white finish makes a massive difference in color accuracy, producing much bolder blacks and more vibrant tones than your average copier paper. Because the surface is so smooth, the ink dries rapidly, which effectively eliminates smudging and allows for confident double-sided printing without bleed-through. It is also an excellent choice for long-term archiving since the acid-free composition prevents that dreaded yellowing over time. Plus, knowing it is FSC certified and made in the USA adds a layer of professional responsibility to every project you run through your machines.

What We Like
97 bright white
Quick ink-drying
Acid-free composition
Smooth finish
FSC certified
#6

Accent Opaque Cream Printer Paper, 8.5” x 11” 24lb Bond/60lb Text Copy Paper – 5,000 Sheets (10 Ream) – Premium Computer Paper with Smooth Finish – 97...

Accent Opaque Cream Premium Printer Paper

4.6 (310 ratings)
ACCENT 188123C 17.25 X 11.25 X 11.00 Inches 59.06 Pounds

Reviews for ACCENT (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
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  • PREMIUM PRINTER PAPER – Our Accent Opaque 24lb Bond/60lb Text Cream Copy Paper has a warm white color. It’s off-white copying paper that has a smooth, level surface that results in consistently crisp, vibrant prints with minimal show-through.
  • FOR EVERYDAY PROJECTS – This multipurpose cream paper is ideal for black and white/color printing, documents, flyers, school projects, booklets, newsletters & more. It’s guaranteed to run on small and large offset presses, copiers & inkjet/laser printers.
  • SUSTAINABLY SOURCED – Accent papers are 100% made in the USA and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. When you buy Accent printer paper, you are helping replant forests and support sustainable forestry jobs for landowners in America.
  • HIGH-QUALITY PRINT PERFORMANCE – This smooth paper features quick ink-drying characteristics for brighter colors and bolder blacks, as well as bleed-free double-sided prints. This computer paper is acid-free to prevent yellowing over time.
  • PAIRS WELL WITH OTHER ACCENT PAPER – For a consistent look to your project, pair this 24lb copier paper with Accent cardstock paper. Look for our complete line of text weight and cover weight papers in super smooth, smooth and vellum finishes.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
American Shop 9.91 No No No

Standard bright white paper often feels clinical and harsh, but Accent Opaque Cream brings a sophisticated warmth to your printed documents. During my testing, I found the 24lb weight provides a substantial, premium feel that standard copier paper lacks. The smooth surface is a standout, allowing ink to dry quickly for bold blacks and vibrant colors without the messy bleed-through often seen in thinner stocks. Whether you are running a high-volume laser printer or a small offset press, this acid-free paper maintains its elegant off-white tone without yellowing over time. It is a professional-grade choice for newsletters or booklets where you want a polished, intentional aesthetic rather than a basic office look.

What We Like
Warm white tone
Smooth surface finish
Quick ink drying
Acid-free longevity
FSC certified

Astrobrights® Printer & Copy Paper, 8.5" x 11", 28lb/105gsm, 97 Brightness, White, 5 reams of 300 sheets per ream, 1,500 sheets per carton (91738-01)

Astrobrights Premium White Printer and Copy Paper

4.5 (95 ratings)
ASTROBRIGHTS 91738-01 11.00 X 8.50 X 0.01 Inches 0.23 Pounds

Reviews for ASTROBRIGHTS (PM Score)

9.3 PM Score
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  • ASTRO WHITE PAPER: The smooth texture and crisp astro white color of our 28 lb. paper produces high resolution images and prints for attention-getting and professional documents
  • LETTER SIZE CARDSTOCK: This 8.5" x 11" astro white paper comes in a pack of 300, so you always have enough on hand
  • IDEAL FOR EVERYDAY PROJECTS This smooth paper is ideal for documents, flyers, brochures, calligraphy hand lettering, and crafting!
  • PRINTER COMPATIBLE: Works well with printers including inkjet and laser for jam-free every day printing. Plus, it's crafted to be lignin and acid-free for long-lasting results.
  • UNIVERSAL USES: You will be amazed at everything you can do with this paper featuring a clean, 97 brightness smooth finish that makes text, photos, and graphics pop
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

After weeks of use in a high-volume office environment, the superior weight of this Astrobrights paper has become a noticeable difference in our daily output. Unlike standard thin copier paper, this 28lb stock feels substantial and professional, providing a smooth texture that handles everything from high-resolution graphics to delicate calligraphy without curling. The 97 brightness level ensures that text and photos truly pop against the crisp white background. I was particularly impressed by the jam-free performance. Whether I am running a quick batch of flyers through the inkjet or a heavy run of brochures on the laser printer, it remains reliable. Because it is acid-free and lignin-free, I feel confident that our important documents will remain pristine for years to come.

What We Like
Premium 28lb weight
High 97 brightness
Jam-free printing
Acid-free longevity
Smooth professional finish
#8

HP Printer Paper | 8.5 x 11 Paper | ColorPrinting 24 lb | 5 Ream Case - 2500 Sheets | 97 Bright | Made in USA - FSC Certified | 202000C

HP ColorPrinting 24lb Premium Office Paper

HP PAPERS 202000 11.63 X 9.25 X 11.75 Inches 24.00 Pounds

Reviews for HP PAPERS (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
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  • MADE IN USA - HP Papers is sourced from renewable forest resources and has achieved production with 0% deforestation in North America. See images.
  • OPTIMIZED FOR HP TECHNOLOGY - All HP Papers provide premium performance on HP equipment, as well as on all other printer and copier equipment. 100% satisfaction . See images.
  • AN EXTRA BRIGHT, WHITE PAPER WHEN YOU NEED TO PRINT FULL-COLOR GRAPHICS AND TEXT - HP ColorPrinting24 is thicker (24lb), brighter (97 bright) and whiter (163 whiteness) than ordinary printing papers and is optimized for full-color printing in all inkjet and laser printers and copiers.
  • CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE - HP ColorPrinting24 printer paper is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified and contributes toward satisfying credit MR1 under LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). See images.
  • COLORLOK TECHNOLOGY PRINTING PAPER - Colorlok technology provides more vivid colors, bolder blacks and faster drying. See images.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
FASTTRACK TRADER'S 9.11 No No No

Most people treat printer paper as a disposable commodity, but the weight and brightness of your stock can actually dictate the professional quality of your final documents. I found that this 24 lb HP ColorPrinting paper makes a massive difference when moving beyond simple text. The 97 bright rating and high whiteness level provide a striking backdrop for full-color graphics, preventing that dull, grayish look common in standard office reams. Thanks to the integrated Colorlok technology, colors pop with much more vibrancy and blacks appear significantly bolder, all while drying faster to prevent smudging. It feels substantial in the hand and performs flawlessly in both inkjet and laser printers, making it a reliable choice for high-stakes presentations.

What We Like
Vivid Colorlok technology
Extra bright white
Thicker 24lb weight
FSC certified sustainable
Made in USA
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best 97 inkjet printer paper

A Guide to Selecting the Best 97 inkjet printer paper

Understanding Paper Weight and GSM

The most immediate difference you will notice between various paper stocks is the weight, often measured in grams per square meter (GSM). For standard office documents, a lighter weight is sufficient, but for inkjet printing, weight plays a crucial role in how the paper handles moisture. Inkjet printers work by spraying liquid droplets onto the page. If the paper is too thin, the saturation of the ink can cause the sheet to curl or ripple, a phenomenon known as 'cockling.' For professional-grade documents, aim for a weight of at least 100 GSM. If you are printing photographs or heavy graphics, you should look toward premium stocks exceeding 200 GSM, which provide the structural integrity needed to support heavy ink loads without warping.

Coating vs. Uncoated Finishes

One of the most critical decision factors in the inkjet category is the presence of a specialized coating. Standard uncoated paper is porous, meaning the ink soaks deep into the fibers. While this is fine for text, it often results in 'feathering,' where the ink spreads outward, making edges look fuzzy. To achieve sharp lines and deep color saturation, look for 'coated' papers. Coated papers feature a chemical layer that keeps the ink sitting on the surface for a fraction of a second longer, allowing it to dry more evenly and stay localized. This results in much higher color accuracy and prevents the 'washed out' look common in cheaper multipurpose papers. Depending on your project, you may choose a matte coating for a sophisticated, non-reflective look, or a glossy coating for high-impact photography.

Brightness and Whiteness Levels

Brightness is a technical measurement of how much light a paper reflects. In the world of inkjet printing, brightness is not just about aesthetics. It is about color perception. A paper with a high brightness rating (typically 96 or higher) will make colors pop and ensure that blacks appear deep and true. If you use a duller, yellowish paper, your blues may look green and your reds may look muddy. When selecting paper for marketing materials or visual presentations, always check the brightness specifications to ensure the substrate provides the neutral background necessary for accurate color reproduction.

Texture and Smoothness

The texture of the paper, often referred to as the 'tooth,' affects how the ink interacts with the surface. For fine art prints or high-end photography, a slight texture can add a premium, tactile feel. However, for technical drawings or high-resolution graphics, a smooth or 'ultra-smooth' finish is preferred. A smoother surface allows the printer head to glide more consistently and prevents the ink from settling into microscopic valleys, which can cause inconsistent color density. Always match the texture to the intended use: smooth for precision and detail, textured for artistic character.

Recommendation Logic

To make the final selection, follow this logic: If you are printing text-heavy reports, prioritize a high-brightness, uncoated paper around 90-100 GSM to save costs while maintaining readability. If you are producing client-facing presentations, move to a coated matte paper of 120 GSM or higher to prevent curling and enhance color depth. For anything involving photography or high-gloss imagery, skip the standard office stocks entirely and invest in heavy-weight, high-gloss coated paper to ensure maximum pigment density and professional-grade finish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about 97 Inkjet Printer Paper before you buy.

Brightness refers to the amount of light reflected off the paper. A 97 rating ensures a crisp, white background that makes colors pop and improves the contrast of text, preventing the 'yellowish' tint seen in lower-quality stocks.

High-quality inkjet paper is specifically engineered with a micro-porous coating that absorbs liquid ink instantly. This prevents bleeding and smudging, provided you allow a few seconds for the ink to set.

While 97 brightness paper is excellent for professional documents and vibrant color graphics, true photographic printing usually requires specialized coated photo paper to achieve a glossy or matte finish.

Yes, brightness and weight are universal metrics. As long as the paper is designed for inkjet technology, it will work seamlessly across all major printer manufacturers.

For standard documents, a weight of 20lb to 24lb is ideal. If you are printing heavy graphics or marketing materials, look for a slightly heavier stock to prevent the paper from curling due to moisture absorption.

Indirectly, yes. Because a brighter white background provides better contrast, you may find you need less ink to achieve legible, sharp text compared to printing on duller, off-white paper.

Paper jams are often caused by poor quality or inconsistent thickness. High-quality 97 brightness paper is manufactured with precise edges and uniform weight to ensure smooth feeding through printer rollers.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of 97 Inkjet Printer Paper

24,390 Reviews Analyzed
8 Products Evaluated
8.5 Avg PM Score
4 Brands Ranked

Top 10 97 Inkjet Printer Paper Brands on Amazon

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

  1. 01 Accent 5 (62.5%)
  2. 02 Astrobrights 1 (12.5%)
  3. 03 Hammermill 1 (12.5%)
  4. 04 Hp Papers 1 (12.5%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 24,390 reviews on 97 Inkjet Printer Paper, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the electronics. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select 97 Inkjet Printer Paper priced around $88.04.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 8 97 Inkjet Printer Paper 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 97 Inkjet Printer Paper to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.