GSM vs Caliper FAQ

What is the difference between GSM and caliper?

GSM measures paper weight. Caliper measures paper thickness.

A paper’s GSM tells you how much it weighs.

A paper’s caliper tells you how thick it is.

Two papers can both be 120gsm and still feel very different because one may be bulkier than the other.

Example

120gsm Nice Art Silk

  • Lower caliper
  • More compact

120gsm Arena Extra White

  • Higher caliper
  • More substantial feel

Why It Matters

  • Packaging
  • Book spine calculations
  • Folding performance
  • Premium feel

Related Questions

  • What is caliper?
  • What GSM should I use?
  • How thick is 300gsm paper?