14pt vs 16pt Cardstock: What’s the Difference?

Cardstock thickness affects how a printed piece feels, how durable it is, and how it represents your brand. Two common options are 14pt and 16pt cardstock. Both are suitable for professional printing, but they create slightly different impressions.

Use this guide to choose the right cardstock for business cards, postcards, invitations, thank-you cards, and other printed materials.

Quick Answer

14pt cardstock is a sturdy, practical option for everyday printing. It works well for standard business cards, postcards, appointment cards, loyalty cards, and general marketing pieces.

16pt cardstock is thicker and feels more substantial. It is often used for premium business cards, invitations, postcards, and printed pieces where hand feel and presentation matter more.

What Does “pt” Mean?

“pt” stands for point, a unit used to describe paper thickness. One point equals 0.001 inch.

That means:

• 14pt cardstock is about 0.014 inch thick.

• 16pt cardstock is about 0.016 inch thick.

The difference may sound small, but it can be noticeable when holding the card, especially with smaller printed products like business cards.

14pt Cardstock

14pt cardstock is a common choice for professional printed materials. It feels firm without being too thick and works well for many everyday uses.

Best for:

• Standard business cards

• Postcards

• Appointment cards

• Loyalty cards

• Promotional cards

• High-volume marketing orders

Choose 14pt if you want a reliable cardstock option that balances quality, cost, and practicality.

16pt Cardstock

16pt cardstock has a thicker, more substantial feel. It can make printed pieces feel more durable, polished, and premium.

Best for:

• Premium business cards

• Invitations

• Thank-you cards

• Brand cards

• Event cards

• Postcards with a stronger hand feel

Choose 16pt if the piece will be handed directly to customers, clients, or guests and you want it to feel more memorable.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose 14pt cardstock if:

• You need everyday business cards or postcards

• You are ordering a larger quantity

• The piece will be widely distributed

• You want a professional but practical option

• Budget and efficiency matter

Choose 16pt cardstock if:

• You want a thicker hand feel

• The card is used for premium introductions

• Your design is simple, refined, or high-end

• Durability and presentation matter more

• You want a stronger first impression

For mailed products, also check size, weight, thickness limits, and mailing requirements before choosing a heavier stock.

Design and Finish Notes

Both 14pt and 16pt cardstock can work well with full-color printing, logos, photos, and clean typography.

For better results:

• Use high-resolution images

• Keep small text readable

• Leave important content inside the safe area

• Choose matte or uncoated paper if the card needs to be written on

• Review product options carefully if using coatings or special finishes

The cardstock thickness should support how the piece will be used, not just make it feel heavier.

Before You Order

Before choosing between 14pt and 16pt cardstock, check:

• Will this piece be used every day or for premium presentation?

• Does it need to be mailed?

• Does it need to be written on?

• Is hand feel important to the brand experience?

• Is the order for high-volume distribution or direct client presentation?

For most standard uses, 14pt cardstock is a solid choice. For a thicker, more premium feel, 16pt cardstock may be the better option.