Buying guide
Business card paper stocks, explained
NURO Print·May 1, 2026· 5 min
Business cards seem simple until you stand in front of a paper-stock dropdown with 7 options. Here is what each one means and when to pick it.
14PT Gloss Cover (C2S) The default. C2S means coated on both sides. Shiny, smooth, professional. The cheapest premium option. If you don't have a strong reason to pick something else, pick this.
14PT Uncoated Same thickness, no coating. Writable surface (someone can jot a note on the back). Good for cards that get handed out at networking events where people scribble.
16PT Gloss Cover (C2S) Two PT thicker than 14PT. Noticeably more rigid in the hand. About 15% more expensive. Use when card sturdiness signals brand quality (lawyers, financial advisors, premium services).
18PT One-Side Coated (C1S) The thickest standard stock. Coated front, uncoated back so you can write on the back. Best for handwritten notes (referral cards, appointment reminders).
32PT Suede Premium specialty. Velvet-like laminate. Cards feel like a luxury hotel key card. 2-3x the cost of 14PT. Pick when the card is the brand experience (architects, photographers, luxury real estate).
When 100lb Gloss Cover makes sense Not for business cards. 100lb is text weight. Use it for postcards, flyers, brochures, sell sheets.
The right stock is the one your customer feels and immediately thinks "professional." If you want to physically compare, request our free sample kit.