As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more.
Best Glossy and Matte Photo Papers for Inkjet Printers (2026)
Whether you’re printing framed gifts, market prints to sell, or photo albums for family, paper choice determines how colors, detail and durability come through. This guide tests top glossy inkjet photo papers on thickness (gsm/weight and stiffness), color reproduction, and overall value for gift printing and small-market sales. Products were selected for consistent positive feedback on print quality and durability, a range of price tiers, and documented compatibility with inkjet dye inks. Read on to find the best option for vivid color, sturdy prints, or budget-friendly double-sided projects.
Quick Answer
For balanced thickness, color pop and value the Koala Glossy Inkjet Photo Paper (ASIN: B07QBZ4S83) is the best overall pick. If you need a low-cost double-sided option, Koala Double Side Thin (B0F633KS73) is the best budget choice.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
Select 2-3 products to compare side-by-side
| Compare | Product | HomeOfficePilot Score | Price Tier | Key Feature | Best For | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Koala Glossy 13x19 180gsm
|
Mid-Range | 180gsm (48lb) glossy sheets | Balanced color and value for gifts | Check Price | ||
Uinkit Glossy 13x19
|
Mid-Range | Instant-dry ultra-gloss coating | High-gloss display prints | Check Price | ||
HP Premium Plus 8.5x11
|
Budget | Gallery-quality glossy with quick dry | Consistent small-format prints | Check Price | ||
Koala Ultra Premium 72lb
|
Premium | Thick 72lb (waterproof) RC coating | Studio-grade prints and markets | Check Price | ||
A-SUB High Gloss 66lb
|
Premium | Broad color gamut and longevity | Fine art and gallery prints | Check Price | ||
Koala Double-Side 120gsm
|
Budget | Double-sided glossy, 120gsm | Magazines, DIY books, budget gifts | Check Price |
1. Koala Glossy Inkjet Photo Paper 13X19 Inches 48lb 100 Sheets Professional Glossy Photographic Paper Compatible with Inkjet Printer Use DYE INK 180GSM
A mid-range all-rounder that delivers vibrant color and good stiffness for framed gifts and posters. Customers praise its print quality and value, though opinions vary on exact gloss level and perceived thickness.
Key Specs
- Size: 13 x 19 inches
- Count: 100 sheets
- Weight: 180gsm (48lb)
- Ink: Optimized for dye ink and inkjet printers
- Finish: Single-sided glossy, fast-dry coating
Pros
- Strong color reproduction and good detail
- Good value for the sheet count
- Fast-drying, low-smear formulation
Cons
- Some users find gloss level inconsistent
- Mixed feedback on perceived thickness
Best For: Balanced color and value for gifts
Check Latest Price on Amazon2. Uinkit Glossy Photo Paper 13x19inches100 Sheets 180Gsm 48lbs Professional Glossy Photographic Paper Compatible with Inkjet Printer Use DYE INK 180GSM
Uinkit emphasizes a pro-store look with an ultra-gloss finish and quick-dry surface that prevents fingerprints. It performs well in printers and offers strong value, though some buyers report occasional color shifts and ink smearing.
Key Specs
- Size: 13 x 19 inches
- Count: 100 sheets
- Weight: 180gsm (48lb)
- Finish: Instant-dry glossy surface
- Ink: Inkjet dye ink only
Pros
- Pro-level glossy look for gallery-style prints
- Quick-drying surface resists fingerprints
- Good value for large packs
Cons
- Some mixed results on color accuracy
- Occasional reports of ink smear
Best For: High-gloss display prints
Check Latest Price on Amazon3. HP Premium Plus Photo Paper - Designed for HP Inkjet Printers, Glossy, 8.5x11 in, 50 sheets - (Pack of 1), (CR664A) White
A reliable mass-market option that prints crisp, color-accurate photos on 8.5x11 sheets. It’s quick-drying and sustainably sourced, making it a solid choice for everyday gift printing, though some users note printer compatibility can vary.
Key Specs
- Size: 8.5 x 11 inches
- Count: 50 sheets
- Finish: High-gloss, quick-dry
- Sustainability: FSC-certified, recyclable
- Designed for: HP inkjet printers
Pros
- Consistent color accuracy and gloss
- Quick-dry, handles well right from printer
- Sustainably sourced paper option
Cons
- Smudge resistance varies by printer
- Some compatibility quirks with non-HP models
Best For: Consistent small-format prints
Check Latest Price on Amazon4. Koala Ultra Premium Photo Paper 13x19 In Glossy Photo Printer Paper for Inkjet Printer Water Resistant 50 Sheets 72lb
This premium resin-coated paper focuses on stiffness and color saturation for gallery-quality prints and market sales. It dries quickly and resists smudging, though some buyers note curled edges on delivery and higher cost per sheet.
Key Specs
- Size: 13 x 19 inches
- Count: 50 sheets
- Weight: 72lb (approx thicker than 180gsm)
- Finish: High-gloss, microporous RC coating
- Feature: Water-resistant layer
Pros
- Excellent color saturation and sharpness
- Thick, stiff feel suitable for framing
- Water-resistant surface extends longevity
Cons
- Higher price tier per sheet
- Some reports of curvature on arrival
Best For: Studio-grade prints and markets
Check Latest Price on Amazon5. A-SUB Premium Photo Paper High Glossy 13x19 Inch 66lb for Inkjet Printers 50 Sheets, Single Sided
A-SUB aims at photographers and artists who need broad color gamut and fade resistance. The paper is praised for clarity and weight, making it good for sales and keepsakes, though buyers sometimes debate perceived thickness.
Key Specs
- Size: 13 x 19 inches
- Count: 50 sheets
- Weight: 66lb
- Finish: High-gloss, resin-coated
- Compatibility: Inkjet printers only
Pros
- Outstanding color gradation and gamut
- Prints stay vivid and resist fading
- Professional clarity for gallery use
Cons
- Perceived thickness varies among users
- Premium cost for larger runs
Best For: Fine art and gallery prints
Check Latest Price on Amazon6. Koala Double Side Thin Glossy Photo Paper 13x19 Inches 120gsm 100 Sheets Compatible with Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink 32LB
A budget-friendly double-sided glossy paper that’s great for magazines, pamphlets and two-sided photo projects. It offers solid print quality for the price, but the thinner 120gsm stock means less stiffness and mixed durability reports.
Key Specs
- Size: 13 x 19 inches
- Count: 100 sheets
- Weight: 120gsm (approx 32lb)
- Finish: Double-sided glossy
- Ink: Designed for dye ink, inkjet printers
Pros
- Good value for two-sided projects
- Produces vivid color for the price
- Large sheet count for bulk printing
Cons
- Thin stock lacks stiffness for framing
- Durability and smear resistance are mixed
Best For: Magazines, DIY books, budget gifts
Check Latest Price on AmazonWhich One Should You Choose?
If you want balanced color, thickness and affordability → Koala Glossy Inkjet Photo Paper (B07QBZ4S83). If budget is tight or you need two-sided prints for booklets → Koala Double Side Thin (B0F633KS73). If premium, stiff, water-resistant prints matter for gallery sales and framed gifts → Koala Ultra Premium (B089QCX7F8).
Best for Specific Scenarios
- Framed wedding prints: Koala Ultra Premium because its thicker RC coating and water resistance give a gallery look and longevity.
- Bulk party favors or DIY photo books: Koala Double Side Thin because double-sided printing and large sheet counts keep costs down.
- Balanced gifts and market prints: Koala Glossy because it pairs strong color reproduction with mid-range thickness and value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does glossy photo paper work with every inkjet printer?
Most glossy photo papers are formulated for inkjet dye inks and many pigment inks, but performance varies. Check the product notes for recommended ink types and run a print profile test to confirm color and drying behavior on your specific printer.
How important is gsm or lb when choosing photo paper?
Very. Higher gsm/lb means thicker, stiffer sheets that present better in frames and feel more durable—important for gifts and market sales. Lower gsm is fine for two-sided booklets or budget prints but often needs mounting for premium presentation.
Can I print two-sided photos on glossy paper?
Yes, but you need paper specifically coated for double-sided printing. Double-sided glossy papers tend to be thinner, so expect less stiffness; if you need both sides glossy and sturdy, consider printing on single-sided premium paper and mounting back-to-back or using a thicker substrate.
How We Selected These Products
Our recommendations are based on data-driven analysis: we evaluated 29748+ products across 4825+ brands using a composite scoring system that weighs rating (40%), review volume (30%), price value (20%), and demand signals (10%). Every product is ranked by data, not opinions.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure.
HomeOfficePilot Score is our editorial ranking based on a composite analysis of product quality, value, and verified customer sentiment. Click through to Amazon for current pricing, availability, and live customer reviews.