“24 lb” describes the paper’s basis weight in the U.S. system. It’s the weight of 500 parent sheets (before they’re cut to letter or legal size) in a specific category, such as copy or bond paper.

• What it measures: 500 parent sheets’ weight, not a single sheet.
• Typical parent size: For bond/copy paper, commonly 17 x 22 inches.
• Feel: 24 lb is thicker and stiffer than standard 20 lb.
• Global reference: Many 24 lb papers also list gsm, often around 89 gsm.

Knowing this can help you pick the right feel and durability for projects like double-sided prints, handouts, or flyers.

These numbers come from different paper categories, so they aren’t directly interchangeable.

• 24 lb typically refers to bond/copy paper basis weight.
• 60 lb often refers to text/book paper basis weight.
• Because the parent sheet sizes differ by category, the two can feel similar in thickness.
• Best comparison: Check gsm for a universal measure; 24 lb bond is often around 89 gsm, which is close to many 60 lb text stocks.

When you’re comparing options online, rely on gsm and the intended use (laser, inkjet, or both) to choose the best match for your project.

Pick 24 lb when you want a sturdier, more premium feel than everyday 20 lb copy paper.

• Duplex printing: Extra heft can help reduce show-through on two-sided pages.
• Color graphics: Heavier sheets can help pages lay flatter and look crisper.
• Handouts/resumes: A firmer sheet can feel more professional.
• Mailers/forms: Added durability may hold up better to handling.

For large, routine print runs, 20 lb is often sufficient and may feed a bit faster in some devices. Check your printer or copier guide for recommended paper weights and adjust the media setting as needed.

The name comes from how paper is weighed before it’s cut down to smaller sizes.

• Basis weight: It’s the weight of 500 parent sheets in a given category.
• Bond/copy paper: Parent size is commonly 17 x 22 inches.
• Different categories: Cover, text, and bond use different parent sizes, so 24 lb cover isn’t the same thickness as 24 lb bond.
• Compare across types: Look for the gsm value alongside the lb rating for a universal comparison.

This system gives a quick shorthand for thickness and stiffness across various paper types.

24 lb paper works well in many home and office printers, and a few simple steps can help it run more smoothly.

• Select the appropriate media type (plain, heavy, or thick) in your print settings.
• Load a smaller stack, fan the edges, and avoid overfilling the tray.
• Store sheets flat in a dry place and keep the wrap sealed until you’re ready to use them.
• If available, use a straight-through manual feed for thicker stocks.
• Match the paper to your printer technology (laser or inkjet) for better image quality.

Settings and results can vary by device, so check your printer guide for supported weight ranges.