Cardstock vs Paper: How to Choose the Right Material for Your Print Project

Cardstock vs Paper: How to Choose the Right Material for Your Print Project

Cardstock vs Paper: What’s the Real Difference?

One of the most common questions we hear in professional printing is surprisingly simple:

“Should I use paper or cardstock?”

The answer depends on purpose, durability, perception, and cost efficiency. Choosing the wrong material can make a strong design feel cheap—or make a simple piece cost more than it needs to.

Let’s break it down clearly so you can choose with confidence.

What Is Standard Paper?

In commercial printing, “paper” usually refers to lighter-weight stocks, commonly:

  • 70 lb text

  • 80 lb text

  • 100 lb text

Best Uses for Paper

Paper is ideal when:

  • You need large quantities

  • The piece is short-term or disposable

  • Cost efficiency matters

Common paper applications:

  • Flyers and handouts

  • Menus (especially frequently updated ones)

  • Letters and inserts

  • Event programs

  • Informational brochures

Pros of Paper

✔ Lower cost per piece
✔ Easier to fold
✔ Lightweight for mailing
✔ Faster turnaround

Cons of Paper

✘ Less durable
✘ Can feel “temporary”
✘ Bends and creases easily

What Is Cardstock?

Cardstock is thicker, heavier, and more rigid than standard paper. Common cardstock weights include:

  • 12 pt

  • 14 pt

  • 16 pt (standard paperweight used by Texas Pro Print)

  • 18 pt+

Best Uses for Cardstock

Cardstock shines when:

  • You want a premium feel

  • The item will be handled often

  • Brand perception matters

Common cardstock applications:

  • Business cards

  • Postcards

  • Invitations

  • Table tents

  • Door hangers

  • Premium flyers

Pros of Cardstock

✔ Feels substantial and professional
✔ More durable
✔ Holds color beautifully
✔ Better first impression

Cons of Cardstock

✘ Higher cost
✘ Heavier for mailing
✘ Not ideal for tight folds

Cardstock vs Paper: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Paper Cardstock
Thickness Thin Thick
Durability Low–Medium High
Cost Lower Higher
Best For Mass distribution Brand impact
Perceived Value Informational Professional

When Cardstock Is Worth the Upgrade

Choose cardstock if:

  • The piece represents your brand identity

  • It’s meant to be kept, not thrown away

  • You want the recipient to remember you

This is why 4"x6" postcards on 16 pt cardstock remain one of the most effective marketing tools even in a digital world.

When Paper Is the Smarter Choice

Paper is the better option if:

  • You’re distributing hundreds or thousands

  • The message is time-sensitive

  • The content matters more than the feel

A well-designed flyer on paper can still outperform a poorly designed cardstock piece.

Final Tip: Match the Material to the Goal

The question isn’t paper vs cardstock.
It’s impact vs efficiency.

At Texas Pro Print, we help businesses choose materials based on:

  • Budget

  • Distribution method

  • Brand positioning

  • Customer behavior

If you’re unsure, we’ll guide you—before you print.