If you’ve ever spent hours in an office—printing reports, presentations, or even last-minute assignments—you’ll know one thing: not all A4 copy paper is the same.
Like many Australians, I used to grab the cheapest ream I could find at Officeworks or Coles without thinking twice. But after years of bulk ordering, I realised that small details—like whether the paper is 70gsm or 80gsm—can completely change the experience (and the cost).
So let’s break it down: which is the best choice for students, businesses, and home offices across Sydney, NSW, and beyond?
What Does GSM Really Mean?
GSM = grams per square metre, basically the thickness and density of the paper.
- 70gsm → lighter, thinner, cheaper
- 80gsm → heavier, stronger, premium feel
Simple? Yes. But the effect on your printing, budget, and eco-impact is much bigger than it seems.
Print Quality & First Impressions
If you’re printing CVs, business proposals, or client handouts, 80gsm wins every time. It:
- Absorbs ink better
- Prevents show-through on double-sided prints
- Feels professional in your hands
70gsm? Perfectly fine for internal notes, drafts, and bulk study material. Just don’t expect the same sharpness when presenting to clients.
Handling & Durability
- 80gsm → fewer jams, resists curling, ideal for double-sided jobs.
- 70gsm → lighter and easier to carry, but can wrinkle or tear faster.
Pro tip: If you’re printing hundreds of pages for exams, meetings, or training manuals, the lighter weight of 70gsm actually makes filing and transporting much easier.
The Cost Factor – Where Aussies Save the Most
For students, startups, or anyone on a tight budget, 70gsm is usually 10–15% cheaper. Over thousands of sheets, that’s serious savings.
👉 Example: On Jazico.com.au, buying bulk cartons of 70gsm A4 copy paper can save small businesses hundreds of dollars per year compared to 80gsm.
But if your reputation depends on presentation, the extra cents for 80gsm are worth it.
Eco-Friendly Considerations
- 70gsm → uses less raw material, lighter shipping weight = lower carbon footprint.
- 80gsm → more brands now FSC-certified and offering recycled options.
So if sustainability matters, check the packaging. Both can be eco-friendly, depending on brand.
Printer Compatibility
Most modern printers in Australia are optimised for 80gsm—especially for duplex (double-sided) printing. That said, 70gsm still works fine if you tweak your settings.
- Office Laser Printers → 80gsm recommended
- Home Printers / Drafts → 70gsm is perfectly fine
Best Use Cases at a Glance
| Use Case | Recommended GSM |
|---|---|
| Professional Proposals & CVs | 80gsm |
| Client Presentations | 80gsm |
| School Assignments | 70gsm |
| Bulk Internal Printing | 70gsm |
| Double-Sided Reports | 80gsm preferred |
| Budget-Saving Needs | 70gsm |
Where to Find the Cheapest Copy Paper in Australia
Big chains like Officeworks and Kmart stock both, but if you want the absolute cheapest bulk copy paper in Sydney & NSW, online is king.
👉 That’s where Jazico.com.au comes in.
- Bulk discounts on 70gsm & 80gsm A4 cartons
- Trusted brands like Reflex, Double A, and PaperOne
- Fast delivery across Sydney & NSW
- Eco-friendly options available
Why I Recommend Jazico
As someone who’s tested dozens of suppliers, Jazico has quickly become my go-to for copy paper in Australia:
✅ Cheapest prices (consistently undercutting major chains)
✅ Friendly Aussie support (they sorted an order mix-up for me in minutes)
✅ Fast shipping (especially across NSW and Sydney metro)
✅ One-stop shop (grab your diaries, planners, and toners in the same order)
FAQs – Copy Paper in Australia
Q1: What’s the difference between 70gsm and 80gsm paper?
👉 70gsm is lighter and cheaper, 80gsm is stronger and more professional.
Q2: Is 70gsm bad for my printer?
👉 Not at all. It works fine for drafts and internal use. Just expect more jams if double-siding a lot.
Q3: Where’s the cheapest place to buy A4 copy paper in Sydney?
👉 Online bulk suppliers like Jazico.com.au, with delivery direct to your door.
Q4: Which paper is better for schools and universities?
👉 70gsm for bulk exam sheets, 80gsm for important reports.
Q5: Can I get eco-friendly bulk paper in Australia?
👉 Yes. Brands like Reflex and Double A offer FSC-certified options stocked at Jazico.
Final Verdict
- Choose 80gsm if you want quality, professionalism, and smooth printing.
- Choose 70gsm if you’re chasing savings and printing in bulk.
But whatever you choose, Jazico.com.au makes it easy to get the cheapest copy paper in Australia—delivered fast, eco-friendly, and at bulk rates.
📦 Ready to stock up?
Shop A4 Copy Paper at Jazico.com.au today – cheapest prices, bulk deals, and Sydney’s fastest delivery.
Which A4 Copy Paper Is Cheapest in Australia – 70gsm or 80gsm?