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Introduction
In the field of customized packaging, the choice of suitable paper materials affects the aesthetics and functionality of the final product. White cardboard, coated paper, and paperboard are the most commonly used but also the most easily confused materials, each with its unique characteristics and applications. This guide will provide a detailed introduction to their composition, thickness, characteristics, and common applications to help consumers easily identify and make informed choices.
White Cardboard
Definition
White cardboard is a thick and stiff uncoated paper made from virgin wood pulp, typically with a basis weight between 190-400 gsm.
Characteristics
White cardboard usually has a smooth, uncoated, matte surface, moderate thickness, and good stiffness, maintaining its shape while also possessing a degree of flexibility for folding. It has extremely high whiteness and uniform color distribution, enhancing print contrast and making printed text and images clearer.
Application Scenarios
It is mainly used in scenarios where cards, card boxes, envelopes, and labels require sturdiness, printability, and a certain degree of flexibility for easy folding; white cardstock will be the first choice.
Coated Paper
Definition
Coated paper has a thin coating of compound on one or both sides to create a smooth surface. The basis weight is generally between 80-300 gsm.
Characteristics
Compared to white cardstock, it is thinner and more easily bent; even high-basis-weight coated paper is easier to bend than white cardstock. The surface of coated paper is also very smooth and refined. When coated with a glossy finish, it has a very high reflective effect; when coated with a matte finish, it is very smooth and matte. The coating on the surface of coated paper ensures that ink adheres well, thus maximizing the display of printed colors.
Application Scenarios
Coated paper is mainly used for printing graphics that require displaying color and detail, such as the surfaces of magazines, product catalogs, flyers, and boxes, resulting in high-quality images.
Paperboard
Definition
Paperboard is the thickest and stiffest of the three materials (paper, paper, and paper), made by pressing multiple layers of pulp together. Its basis weight is generally 250-600+ gsm.
Characteristics
It possesses extremely strong structural integrity and usually requires creasing to fold neatly, thus exhibiting high load-bearing capacity. However, without coating, the surface is relatively rough, and the texture is clearly visible (e.g., kraft paper); even with coating, its reflectivity is still not as high as coated paper.
Application Scenarios
Paperboard is mainly used to make product packaging, shipping boxes, display racks, and book covers, primarily protecting the products through its load-bearing capacity.
Quick identification chart
| Feature | White card | Coated paper | Paperboard |
| Gsm range | 190-400 gsm | 80-300 gsm | 250-600+ gsm |
| Surface | Smooth, Uncoated | Glossy/Matte Coating | White surface, often with a gray core |
| Stiffness | Middle | Low | Excellent |
| Main uses | Packaging for cards or lightweight products | High-quality printing | Packaging of heavy products |
| Printing effect | Well | Excellent | Good |
Conclusion
While white cardboard, coated paper, and paperboard serve similar purposes, they differ significantly in thickness, stiffness, surface texture, printing effects, and application scenarios. Therefore, understanding their definitions, characteristics, and classic use cases allows for easy differentiation. Furthermore, precisely matching materials to needs ensures optimal results and saves time and costs.
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FAQ
What is the main difference between white cardboard and paperboard?
The key difference is in structure and stiffness. White cardboard is a single-ply, solid uncoated paper with good foldability, ideal for cards and folding boxes. Paperboard is multi-layered and much thicker, offering superior rigidity for heavy-duty packaging like shipping boxes and displays.
When should I choose coated paper over white cardboard?
Choose coated paper when your design requires vibrant, high-detail color printing—such as for product catalogs, magazine covers, or luxury box surfaces. Its coated surface maximizes ink adhesion and color reflection, whereas white cardboard has a matte finish better suited for elegant, understated designs.
Which material is most eco-friendly for sustainable packaging?
All three materials are recyclable and biodegradable if uncoated. For minimal environmental impact
