Coated vs Uncoated Paper: How to Pick the Right One for Your Project

When it comes to printed materials, choosing the right paper matters just as much as good design or quality printing. The paper you select influences colour vibrancy, texture, readability, impression, and the overall feel of your brand.

One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Should I use coated or uncoated paper?”

Both options have their strengths — and knowing the difference helps you make a smarter, more impactful choice for your next marketing or print project.

What Is Coated Paper?

Coated paper is treated with a smooth surface coating (typically clay) that improves brightness and makes colours appear more vibrant.

Key Characteristics

• Smooth, polished, or glossy surface
• High colour intensity and clarity
• Excellent for detailed images and photography
• Usually available in gloss, silk, matte, or satin finishes

Best For

• Brochures & catalogues
• Product sheets
• High-impact posters
• Magazines & lifestyle publications
• Marketing collateral that needs strong visual appeal

If your design contains rich visuals, graphics, or photography, coated paper helps them stand out. The finish also gives your project a more premium, refined touch.

What Is Uncoated Paper?

Uncoated paper has no surface coating. The natural fibres are exposed, giving it a soft, tactile feel that absorbs ink more easily.

Key Characteristics

• Natural, warm look and feel
• More textured — perfect for writing or stamping
• Softer colours due to ink absorption
• Excellent readability
• Often used for environmentally conscious brands

Best For

• Stationery & letterheads
• Business cards
• Books & manuals
• Certificates
• Minimalist or elegant print designs
• Sustainable branding projects

Uncoated paper feels natural, soft, and authentic — perfect for brands that want to convey trust, craft, or professionalism.

Which One Should You Use?

Here’s a quick guide based on your project type:

• Brand Brochure → Coated for strong imagery
• Luxury Packaging → Coated or Uncoated for a premium tactile feel
• Retail Flyers → Coated for cost-effective vibrancy
• Book Text Pages → Uncoated for comfort, readability and writability
• Posters → Coated for maximum visual clarity

If you’re unsure, think about the experience you want your audience to feel — sleek and polished, or soft and natural?

Choosing from OVOL Singapore’s Paper Range

Whether your project needs coated or uncoated paper, OVOL Singapore offers a wide selection across premium brands, digital-print materials, sustainable options, and specialty ranges.

• For coated options → Venus, 9Lives Silk, Astropack, Stardream and other premium grades.
• For uncoated options → Green Forest, Recyco, and other sustainable sourced papers.

If you need help selecting the right material, contact our team here to get recommendation on the best paper based on printing method, finishing, and budget.