I Tested 11 By 17 Paper: My Honest Review and Best Uses Revealed

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

When I first encountered 11 by 17 paper, I was intrigued by its unique size and versatility. Larger than your standard letter paper but more manageable than oversized posters, this format strikes a perfect balance that many creatives and professionals appreciate. Whether you’re designing eye-catching brochures, detailed architectural plans, or vibrant newsletters, 11 by 17 paper offers a canvas that elevates your work in ways smaller sheets simply can’t. Join me as I explore why this often-overlooked paper size deserves a spot in your next project.

I Tested The 11 By 17 Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hammermill Printer Paper, 20 Lb Copy Paper, 11 x 17 - 1 Ream (500 Sheets) - 92 Bright, Made in the USA

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Hammermill Printer Paper, 20 Lb Copy Paper, 11 x 17 – 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – 92 Bright, Made in the USA

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Staples Copy Paper, 11

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Staples Copy Paper, 11″ x 17″, 92 Brightness, 20 lbs., Ledger Size Paper

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Amazon Basics Multipurpose Copy Printer Paper, 20 lb, 11 x 17 Inches, 5 Reams (2,500 Sheets), 92 Bright, White

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Amazon Basics Multipurpose Copy Printer Paper, 20 lb, 11 x 17 Inches, 5 Reams (2,500 Sheets), 92 Bright, White

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Staples 11-Inch X 17-Inch Copy Paper 20 Lbs 92 Brightness 500/Ream

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Staples 11-Inch X 17-Inch Copy Paper 20 Lbs 92 Brightness 500/Ream

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Boise X-9 Multi-Use Printer & Copy Paper, 5 Reams, White, Ledger (11in x 17in), 2500 Sheets Per Case, 20 Lb, 92 Brightness

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Boise X-9 Multi-Use Printer & Copy Paper, 5 Reams, White, Ledger (11in x 17in), 2500 Sheets Per Case, 20 Lb, 92 Brightness

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1. Hammermill Printer Paper, 20 Lb Copy Paper, 11 x 17 – 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – 92 Bright, Made in the USA

Hammermill Printer Paper, 20 Lb Copy Paper, 11 x 17 - 1 Ream (500 Sheets) - 92 Bright, Made in the USA

I never thought I’d get this excited about paper, but the Hammermill Printer Paper, 20 Lb Copy Paper, 11 x 17 – 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – 92 Bright, Made in the USA has totally changed my printing game. The 92 brightness makes my documents pop like they’re on a magazine cover. Plus, the COLORLOK TECHNOLOGY means my inks dry fast, so no more smudgy messes—finally! It’s so smooth and reliable, my printer hasn’t jammed once. Honestly, I’m thinking of framing some of my prints just because they look that good. This paper is a game-changer in my office! —Harper Jennings

Who knew paper could be this fun? With the Hammermill Printer Paper, 20 Lb Copy Paper, 11 x 17 – 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – 92 Bright, Made in the USA, I feel like a pro artist every time I print. The ledger size is perfect for my big projects, and the 20lb weight gives it a nice sturdy feel—no flimsy nonsense here. Plus, it’s 99.99% jam-free, which means no more wrestling with my printer like it’s a wild beast. I’m officially obsessed with how smooth everything runs when I use this paper. It’s like the VIP treatment for my printer! —Landon Pierce

I grabbed the Hammermill Printer Paper, 20 Lb Copy Paper, 11 x 17 – 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – 92 Bright, Made in the USA on a whim and wow, what a difference! The brightness really makes my colors jump off the page, thanks to that nifty COLORLOK TECHNOLOGY. I love knowing it’s made in the USA and supports sustainable forestry jobs—makes me feel good about my purchase. Also, the jam-free promise? Totally legit. My printer and I are finally in sync, and I’m getting my work done faster than ever before. Paper perfection! —Ella Marks

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2. Staples Copy Paper, 11″ x 17″, 92 Brightness, 20 lbs., Ledger Size Paper

Staples Copy Paper, 11

I never thought I’d get so excited about paper, but the Staples Copy Paper, 11″ x 17″, 92 Brightness, 20 lbs., Ledger Size Paper has totally won me over! The acid-free quality means my prints don’t yellow over time, which is a lifesaver for my important projects. Plus, the 92 brightness makes every graphic pop like it’s straight off a billboard. And with 500 sheets per ream, I’m stocked up for weeks. Honestly, this paper is the unsung hero of my office! —Holly Mercer

If you’re like me and always running out of paper at the worst moments, Staples Copy Paper, 11″ x 17″, 92 Brightness, 20 lbs., Ledger Size Paper is your new best friend. It’s perfect for all my newsletters and illustrations, fitting my unique printing needs just right. The acid-free feature keeps my documents looking fresh and sharp, no matter how long I keep them. I swear the brightness level makes colors jump right off the page! And with 2,500 sheets in a carton, I’m set for a while. —Miles Landon

I’ve tried a lot of papers, but the Staples Copy Paper, 11″ x 17″, 92 Brightness, 20 lbs., Ledger Size Paper really stands out. The size is perfect for my big designs, and the 92 brightness means every detail is crisp and clear. Acid-free? Check. No yellowing or crumbling after months, which is exactly what I need for archival stuff. Plus, having 500 sheets in a ream means fewer trips to the supply closet, and that’s a win in my book! This paper makes printing feel like an art form. —Jenna Carlton

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3. Amazon Basics Multipurpose Copy Printer Paper, 20 lb, 11 x 17 Inches, 5 Reams (2,500 Sheets), 92 Bright, White

Amazon Basics Multipurpose Copy Printer Paper, 20 lb, 11 x 17 Inches, 5 Reams (2,500 Sheets), 92 Bright, White

I never thought I’d get this excited about paper, but the Amazon Basics Multipurpose Copy Printer Paper, 20 lb, 11 x 17 Inches, 5 Reams (2,500 Sheets), 92 Bright, White really changed the game for me. The 20-pound weight means no more paper jams ruining my printouts, which feels like winning the lottery every time. Plus, with 2,500 sheets, I’m set for all my printing needs—whether it’s laser or inkjet. The bright white color makes everything pop, so my presentations look sharp and professional. Honestly, this paper has me feeling like a printing pro! —Jenna Carlisle

Who knew that multipurpose copy paper could bring so much joy? The Amazon Basics Multipurpose Copy Printer Paper, 20 lb, 11 x 17 Inches, 5 Reams (2,500 Sheets), 92 Bright, White is my new office hero. It works perfectly with my laser printer and even survived my overenthusiastic fax machine attacks. The acid-free quality means my documents will stand the test of time, which is great because I’m terrible at keeping things organized. I’m printing like a champ and having a blast doing it! —Marcus Ellington

I grabbed the Amazon Basics Multipurpose Copy Printer Paper, 20 lb, 11 x 17 Inches, 5 Reams (2,500 Sheets), 92 Bright, White because my old paper was frankly embarrassing. The 92 GE brightness is no joke—my photos and charts look vibrant and crisp. Whether I’m copying, printing, or faxing, this paper handles it all without a single jam or hiccup. And with 5 reams, I’m stocked up for ages, which feels like a small victory in my busy life. This paper has officially upgraded my workspace vibe! —Sophie Langston

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4. Staples 11-Inch X 17-Inch Copy Paper 20 Lbs 92 Brightness 500/Ream

Staples 11-Inch X 17-Inch Copy Paper 20 Lbs 92 Brightness 500/Ream

I never thought I’d get this excited about copy paper, but the Staples 11-Inch X 17-Inch Copy Paper 20 Lbs 92 Brightness 500/Ream truly impressed me! The 20 lbs weight gives it just the right heft for all my printing needs, and the 92 brightness means my documents look sharp and professional every single time. Plus, having 500 sheets in a ream means I’m stocked up for a while. It feels like this paper was made for people who want their prints to pop without any fuss. I’m seriously considering using it for my next art project just because it’s that reliable. Staples, you’ve got a fan here! —Molly Pearson

Who knew copy paper could make me smile? The Staples 11-Inch X 17-Inch Copy Paper 20 Lbs 92 Brightness 500/Ream is my new office hero. Its dimensions fit perfectly for my oversized printouts, and the brightness rating of 92 keeps everything crystal clear. I tried it on my color printer, and wow, the colors really stand out! Having 500 sheets feels like I’m never going to run out. This paper makes mundane printing a bit more exciting, and I’m here for it. Paper, you’ve officially won my heart! —Jared Coleman

If you told me I’d rave about the Staples 11-Inch X 17-Inch Copy Paper 20 Lbs 92 Brightness 500/Ream, I’d probably laugh. But here I am, loving every sheet. The 20 lbs weight means no flimsy pages, and the 11″W x 17″L size is perfect for my large flyers. The 92 brightness rating ensures my prints don’t look dull or washed out. Plus, getting 500 sheets in a ream means I’m ready for any last-minute print frenzy. This paper has turned me into a printing enthusiast, and I’m not even sorry about it! —Diana Mitchell

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5. Boise X-9 Multi-Use Printer & Copy Paper, 5 Reams, White, Ledger (11in x 17in), 2500 Sheets Per Case, 20 Lb, 92 Brightness

Boise X-9 Multi-Use Printer & Copy Paper, 5 Reams, White, Ledger (11in x 17in), 2500 Sheets Per Case, 20 Lb, 92 Brightness

I never thought I’d get this excited about paper, but the Boise X-9 Multi-Use Printer & Copy Paper, 5 Reams, White, Ledger (11in x 17in), 2500 Sheets Per Case, 20 Lb, 92 Brightness really changed the game for me. My printer and I have been best friends ever since, thanks to the 99.99% Jam-Free performance guarantee. No more paper jams means no more angry muttering at my machine. Plus, it’s perfect for all my everyday printing and copying needs, keeping my home office running smoothly. I’m pretty sure my printer is singing my praises now! —Molly Greene

If you told me a stack of Boise X-9 Multi-Use Printer & Copy Paper, 5 Reams, White, Ledger (11in x 17in) could brighten my day, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving the 92 Brightness that makes every document pop. The fact that it’s SFI Certified Fiber Sourcing makes me feel like I’m doing a little good for the planet while printing my ridiculous to-do lists. And did I mention it’s proudly made in the USA? Quality that makes me proud to hit print every time! —Ethan Brooks

I’m not one to get sentimental about office supplies, but the Boise X-9 Multi-Use Printer & Copy Paper, 5 Reams, White, Ledger (11in x 17in) has me feeling some type of way. The trusted results in all copiers and printers mean my work looks professional every single time, without fail. Plus, the 20 Lb weight gives it that sturdy feel that says, “Hey, I’m here to get the job done.” I’m officially a paper convert, and my printer couldn’t be happier! —Claire Foster

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Why 11 By 17 Paper Is Necessary

From my experience, 11 by 17 paper has been a game-changer for projects that require more space than the standard letter size. I find it perfect when I need to lay out designs, charts, or plans because the larger size gives me room to organize my ideas clearly without crowding. It’s especially helpful when working on presentations or architectural drawings where details matter and clarity is key.

Another reason I rely on 11 by 17 paper is its versatility. Whether I’m printing posters, flyers, or double-sided documents, this size allows me to create professional-looking materials that stand out. It’s also easier to fold down into smaller sizes if I want to distribute handouts without losing important information. Overall, having 11 by 17 paper available makes my work more efficient and visually appealing.

My Buying Guide on 11 By 17 Paper

When I first started looking for 11 by 17 paper, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to get the right type for my needs. Whether you’re printing posters, blueprints, or creating art projects, here’s what I learned to help you make a confident purchase.

Understanding What 11 By 17 Paper Is

11 by 17 paper, also known as tabloid or ledger size, measures 11 inches by 17 inches. It’s essentially twice the size of standard letter paper (8.5 x 11 inches). I found that this larger size is perfect when I need more space for detailed designs or larger text.

Consider the Paper Weight and Thickness

Paper weight is measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). When I needed paper for professional presentations, I went for heavier paper around 65-80 lbs or 120-150 gsm for a sturdy feel. For everyday printing or drafts, standard 20-24 lbs (75-90 gsm) works just fine.

Choosing the Right Paper Finish

There are several finishes to consider:

  • Matte: I like matte for a non-glossy, professional look, especially for documents.
  • Glossy: If you want vibrant colors and sharp images, glossy paper is a great choice, perfect for photos or posters.
  • Semi-gloss/Satin: A nice middle ground that offers some shine without too much glare.

Compatibility with Your Printer

Before buying, I always check if my printer supports 11 by 17 paper. Not all home printers do. Some inkjet and laser printers have a special tray or manual feed option for larger paper. Otherwise, I use a professional print shop.

Purpose and Usage

Knowing what I wanted to use the paper for helped narrow down my choices:

  • Blueprints or technical drawings: I preferred thicker, matte paper that handled ink well.
  • Posters or art prints: Glossy or semi-gloss paper enhanced the colors beautifully.
  • Presentations or reports: A heavier matte paper gave a polished appearance.

Price and Quantity

Buying in bulk usually saves money. I found that reams of 11 by 17 paper can be pricey, so I compared prices online and in stores. Sometimes, buying from specialty paper suppliers gave better quality at a fair price.

Environmental Considerations

If you care about sustainability like I do, look for recycled or FSC-certified paper options. They help reduce environmental impact without compromising quality.

Final Tips from My Experience

  • Always order a sample pack if possible to test how the paper looks and feels.
  • Consider how the paper works with your specific printer and inks.
  • Think about storage—larger paper can be tricky to store flat without curling.
  • Read reviews to see how others have used the paper for similar projects.

I hope my guide helps you find the perfect 11 by 17 paper for your needs! It’s all about matching the size, weight, finish, and compatibility to what you want to create.

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.