10 Best Inkjet Photo Papers 2025 in the United States

The Canon ZINK Photo Paper Pack is a solid choice for users looking to print small, high-quality photos. With a glossy finish, this paper enhances image vibrancy, making colors pop, which is particularly appealing for casual photographers and those wanting to create fun prints for scrapbooks or displays. The 2 x 3 inch size is convenient for mobile printing applications, especially with compatible Canon printers.

However, there are some factors to consider. The paper weight of only 20 gsm means it's quite lightweight, which might make it feel less premium compared to heavier photo papers. While it dries quickly, the brightness rating is relatively low at 1 candela, which might affect the richness of colors under certain lighting conditions. The opacity isn't specified, so users might want to verify how this paper performs against thicker papers, especially for creative projects.

Additionally, while the archival quality is not explicitly mentioned, this paper is more geared towards casual use rather than serious photographic work due to its specialized size and lightweight design. The Canon ZINK Photo Paper Pack is ideal for those looking for a quick and easy photo printing solution with vibrant results, perfect for personal projects or events. However, if you're aiming for professional-grade prints or archival-quality materials, you might want to explore other heavier and more opaque options.

Canon Ink Photo Paper Plus Glossy II is a well-regarded choice for anyone looking to print high-quality photos at home. Its glossy finish allows for vibrant and rich colors, making your images pop and closely resemble traditional photographs. With a weight of 70 gsm and a brightness rating of 92 lumens, this paper provides a professional feel, enhancing the visual appeal of your prints.

One of the standout features is its compatibility with all inkjet printers, which means you won’t have to worry about finding a specific printer model to use this paper. The single-sided design, complete with a Canon watermark on the back, ensures that your prints maintain a clean and polished look. The drying time may vary depending on the ink used and the environment. Additionally, while the paper has good opacity, it may not be the best choice for double-sided printing due to the glossy finish on one side.

The archival quality is decent, but if you're looking for long-term preservation of your prints, consider using additional protective measures like storage in photo albums or frames to avoid fading. If you’re seeking a reliable inkjet photo paper that delivers beautiful, glossy prints, the Canon Ink Photo Paper Plus Glossy II is a solid option. It's particularly well-suited for family photos, event memories, and any project where image quality is paramount. Just be mindful of the print handling and storage to ensure your photos last.

The HP Advanced Photo Paper, Glossy, 8.5x11 in, 50 sheets (Q7853A) is designed to produce high-quality photo prints with a glossy finish, making it ideal for those who want their photos to have vibrant and intense colors. The glossy finish adds a professional touch and enhances the visual appeal of your prints. With a paper weight of 20 lbs, it is thick enough to withstand repeated handling without easily getting damaged, which is great for sharing photos with friends and family. The brightness rating of 90 lumens ensures that your photos will have good contrast and clarity, though it may not be the brightest available.

One of the standout features is the quick-dry capability, allowing you to frame and handle your prints almost immediately without worrying about smudging. Additionally, this paper is acid-free and offers archival quality, meaning your photos will resist fading and stay vibrant for generations when used with Original HP Ink. It is also eco-friendly, being recyclable and FSC-certified, which is a nice bonus for environmentally conscious users.

However, it's worth noting that this paper is best suited for use with HP's Instant Ink service for cost efficiency, and the brightness level may not be sufficient for professional photographers seeking the highest luminosity. This photo paper is an excellent choice for home users who want to create and share beautiful, long-lasting photo prints easily.