What Is GSM in Paper Weight?

When choosing paper cups or ice cream cups¹, GSM² is one number that makes a big difference—but bigger is not always better.

GSM² means grams per square meter³. It measures paper weight, thickness, and stiffness. The right GSM² depends on cup size, product type, and budget.

In my years of working with cafés, dessert shops, and food brands, I’ve seen that GSM² choice can decide both cost control and user comfort.

200GSM⁴M](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)%%%FOOTNOTE_REF_2%%% vs 300GSM⁵M](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)%%%FOOTNOTE_REF_2%%% — Which is Better?

This is one of the most common customer questions.

200GSM⁴M](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)%%%FOOTNOTE_REF_2%%% works well for small to medium cups, while 300GSM⁵M](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)%%%FOOTNOTE_REF_2%%% is better for large cups, cold drinks, and ice cream bowls that need more strength.

4M" />² vs 300GSM⁵M](2](https://papercupshkl.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/GSM2.png">https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)²](https://papercupshkl.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/GSM2.png "200GSM⁴M](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)%%%FOOTNOTE_REF_2%%% vs 300GSM⁵M](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)%%%FOOTNOTE_REF_2%%%")

💡 In my projects, a 12oz latte usually uses 230GSM², while a 16oz cold bubble tea performs best at 300GSM⁵M](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)%%%FOOTNOTE_REF_2%%%. Going too high wastes money without adding value.

What GSM² Means Good Quality?

Some think "heavier means better"—but true quality is more than weight.

Good quality paper cups use food-grade pulp⁶, proper coating, and well-formed structure, regardless of GSM².

2 paper cup quality" title="Good [GSM](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)² paper cup quality" />

Paper quality depends on three main points:

• Pulp type: Virgin wood pulp or bamboo pulp for food safety.
• Coating: PE for water resistance, PLA for composting, water-based for new green markets.
• Forming: Double wall for insulation, thick rolled rim for lid fit, and leak-proof seams.

I once reviewed two 300GSM⁵M](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)%%%FOOTNOTE_REF_2%%% cups—one buckled easily because the forming process was poor. Weight alone couldn’t save bad manufacturing.

Are Paper Cups Compostable?

This question is linked to eco laws and brand image.

A paper cup’s compostability depends on its coating, not its GSM².

Types of coatings:

• PE coating⁷: Blocks water/oil well but not compostable; needs special recycling.
• PLA coating⁸: Plant-based, compostable in industrial facilities.
• Water-based coating: Breaks down faster, works in advanced eco markets.

More brands now choose PLA paper to meet plastic bans. In my factory, we supply both PLA-coated and PE-coated cups to suit market rules and price points.

How to Choose GSM² for Ice Cream Cups?

Ice cream cups face different challenges than coffee cups.

For ice cream, the GSM² must resist freezing temperatures, spoon pressure, and heavy toppings.

Key factors:

• Cup size and height—taller cups bend more easily.
• Food texture—solid chunks and sauces need stronger walls.
• Brand image—thicker paper can feel more premium and print colors better.

A gelato client of mine upgraded from 280GSM² to 320GSM² for their 12oz double-scoop cups. Customers stopped complaining about cups getting soggy, and the brand’s print looked sharper.

Conclusion

GSM² tells us paper weight, but good cups depend on quality pulp, the right coating, and proper structure. Choosing the right GSM² saves costs, improves performance, and supports your brand. For ice cream cups¹, start at 300GSM⁵M](https://www.instantprint.co.uk/printspiration/print-design-tips/what-is-gsm-and-how-do-you-choose-which-one-you-need)%%%FOOTNOTE_REF_2%%% to keep shape and quality.