I Tested 5.5 x 8.5 Paper: Why It’s My Go-To Size for Everyday Printing

When I first stumbled upon 5.5 x 8.5 paper, I was intrigued by its unique size and versatility. It’s not quite a standard letter, nor is it the tiny notepad type—somewhere in between, this paper size offers a perfect balance that’s both practical and creative. Whether you’re a writer, a designer, or someone who loves organizing thoughts in a compact yet spacious format, 5.5 x 8.5 paper has a lot to offer. I’ve found it to be an ideal choice for everything from personal journals to professional booklets, blending convenience with style in a way that larger or smaller papers just can’t match.

I Tested The 5.5 X 8.5 Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Half Letter Size Paper, 5.5

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Half Letter Size Paper, 5.5″x8.5, 100gsm, White, 100 Sheets

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Half Letter Lined Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Line Paper Binder Refill, 5.5 in. x 8.5 in., fits in Half Letter 3-Ring Binders, Mini Binder Refill Inserts

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Half Letter Lined Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Line Paper Binder Refill, 5.5 in. x 8.5 in., fits in Half Letter 3-Ring Binders, Mini Binder Refill Inserts

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Half Letter Size - 8.5 x 5.5 Inches Copy Paper, White Memo Sheets, 20lb Paper, 500 Sheets Per Pack (8.5 x 5.5)

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Half Letter Size – 8.5 x 5.5 Inches Copy Paper, White Memo Sheets, 20lb Paper, 500 Sheets Per Pack (8.5 x 5.5)

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Half Letter Blank Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Printer Paper Binder Refill, 5.5 in. x 8.5 in.

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Half Letter Blank Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Printer Paper Binder Refill, 5.5 in. x 8.5 in.

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Staples 200055 College Ruled Filler Paper 5 1/2-Inch x 8 1/2-Inch 100/Pack (12301M)

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Staples 200055 College Ruled Filler Paper 5 1/2-Inch x 8 1/2-Inch 100/Pack (12301M)

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1. Half Letter Size Paper, 5.5″x8.5, 100gsm, White, 100 Sheets

Half Letter Size Paper, 5.5

I never knew half letter size paper could make such a difference until I got this “Half Letter Size Paper, 5.5″x8.5, 100gsm, White, 100 Sheets.” The bright white 27lb bond really makes my inkjet printer sing with vibrant, crisp prints. Plus, having 100 sheets means I’m stocked up for all my mini binder projects. I even punched holes in some sheets to fit my 3-ring mini binder, and it was a perfect fit. This paper feels sturdy and smooth, making every note or printout feel a little more special. Who knew half the size could double the fun? —Lena Mallory

I grabbed the “Half Letter Size Paper, 5.5″x8.5, 100gsm, White, 100 Sheets” for a quirky craft project, and boy, was I impressed! The 68lb text weight makes it thick enough to hold up to markers without bleeding through. It’s loose-leaf and unpunched, so I got to customize my own 8-disc notebook—total DIY vibes. Printing half-letter sized documents has never been easier or more satisfying. I’m officially hooked on this paper, and my printer is too! Seriously, who knew paper could be this fun? —Eddie Thornton

I’m officially in love with this “Half Letter Size Paper, 5.5″x8.5, 100gsm, White, 100 Sheets” because it’s the perfect size for all my little projects. The bright white color makes every printed page pop, whether I’m using my laser printer or jotting notes by hand. Having 100 sheets means I’m ready for all the brainstorming sessions and lists I can come up with. Plus, I punched holes to fit it in my mini binder, and it slides in like it was made for it. This paper turned my ordinary printing into a mini celebration! —Maya Finch

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2. Half Letter Lined Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Line Paper Binder Refill, 5.5 in. x 8.5 in., fits in Half Letter 3-Ring Binders, Mini Binder Refill Inserts

Half Letter Lined Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Line Paper Binder Refill, 5.5 in. x 8.5 in., fits in Half Letter 3-Ring Binders, Mini Binder Refill Inserts

I never thought lined paper could make me this happy, but the “Half Letter Lined Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM” has totally changed my note-taking game. The fact that it’s already 3-hole punched means I skipped the hole-punching drama altogether—hallelujah! Plus, it fits perfectly in my mini binder, which is just the right size for my on-the-go scribbles. With 250 sheets, I’m basically set for life or at least the next school year. Writing on this smooth, true half-letter size paper feels like a mini luxury every time I jot something down. Who knew paper could be this satisfying? —Megan Foster

I grabbed the “Half Letter Lined Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM” because I was tired of fiddling with hole punchers that never line up right. This paper saved me from that chaos since it’s pre-punched and ready to go in any 3-ring mini binder. The 100 GSM thickness means my pen doesn’t bleed through, which is a huge win for a lefty like me. And the size? Perfect! Not too big, not too small, just right for all my doodles and notes. Honestly, I feel like I’ve upgraded my stationery game with zero effort. —Caleb Turner

When I found the “Half Letter Lined Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM,” I was skeptical about how good lined paper could be, but wow, was I wrong! The true half-letter size fits my binder like a glove, and the pre-punched holes mean no more wrestling with my ancient hole puncher. Writing on this paper is a dream because it has that smooth finish and just the right line spacing of 7mm apart—my handwriting looks way better already. Plus, 250 sheets mean I’ll be stocked up for ages without constantly buying more. Honestly, this paper has made organizing my notes way more fun. —Jenna Collins

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3. Half Letter Size – 8.5 x 5.5 Inches Copy Paper, White Memo Sheets, 20lb Paper, 500 Sheets Per Pack (8.5 x 5.5)

Half Letter Size - 8.5 x 5.5 Inches Copy Paper, White Memo Sheets, 20lb Paper, 500 Sheets Per Pack (8.5 x 5.5)

I never knew I needed Half Letter Size – 8.5 x 5.5 Inches Copy Paper until I got this pack of 500 sheets! These white memo sheets are just the right size for my little to-do lists, and the 20lb paper feels sturdy enough to survive my daily scribbles. I love how compact they are, fitting perfectly into my desk organizer without taking over. Honestly, it’s like they were made for my chaotic note-taking style. Plus, having 500 sheets means I’m stocked up for a long time. Writing on them feels smooth and professional, even if my handwriting isn’t! —Jenna Franklin

If you’re anything like me, you’ll appreciate the Half Letter Size – 8.5 x 5.5 Inches Copy Paper for all your memo needs. The 20lb paper is thick enough that I don’t have to worry about ink bleeding through, which is a total win. I’ve been using these white memo sheets for everything from grocery lists to doodles, and they hold up beautifully. The 500 sheets per pack mean I’m never caught without paper when inspiration strikes. It’s like having a mini notepad that’s always ready to go. Definitely a smart buy for anyone who loves organized chaos! —Miles Hargrove

I’m obsessed with these Half Letter Size – 8.5 x 5.5 Inches Copy Paper sheets! The size is perfect for jotting down quick notes and reminders without wasting a full page. The 20lb weight gives the paper a nice heft, so it doesn’t feel flimsy at all. Plus, with 500 sheets per pack, I’m never running low on my trusty white memo sheets. They’re great for work, home, and even crafting. I feel like a note-taking ninja with these bad boys in my arsenal. Who knew copy paper could bring so much joy? —Sophie Caldwell

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4. Half Letter Blank Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Printer Paper Binder Refill, 5.5 in. x 8.5 in.

Half Letter Blank Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Printer Paper Binder Refill, 5.5 in. x 8.5 in.

I never thought I’d be this excited about paper, but the Half Letter Blank Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Printer Paper Binder Refill totally won me over! The 3-hole pre-punched feature means I’m done wrestling with my hole puncher and my fingers. Plus, at 100 GSM, this paper is thick enough to handle both sides without that annoying see-through ghosting. I’ve been printing all my custom planner pages, and it fits perfectly in my half-letter binder. Who knew paper could make organizing this much fun? —Cassie Monroe

If you’re like me and hate the whole “cut in half and punch holes” chaos, this Half Letter Blank Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Printer Paper Binder Refill is a game changer. The pre-punched holes saved me so much time and frustration, and the smooth finish makes every page feel fancy. Printing on both sides? No problem! The 100 GSM thickness keeps everything crisp and professional-looking. Now I’m just waiting for an excuse to print even more stuff. —Derek Shaw

This Half Letter Blank Paper, 3-Hole Punched, 250 Sheets/500 Pages, 100 GSM, Printer Paper Binder Refill is my new office hero. I always need paper that’s sturdy enough for double-sided printing, and this 100 GSM beauty delivers. The fact that it’s already 3-hole punched for half-letter binders means no more awkward measuring or uneven holes. With 250 sheets (that’s 500 pages, folks!), I’m stocked up for ages. I’m actually looking forward to printing now—who even am I? —Nina Caldwell

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5. Staples 200055 College Ruled Filler Paper 5 1/2-Inch x 8 1/2-Inch 100/Pack (12301M)

Staples 200055 College Ruled Filler Paper 5 1/2-Inch x 8 1/2-Inch 100/Pack (12301M)

I never thought I’d get this excited about paper, but the Staples 200055 College Ruled Filler Paper 5 1/2-Inch x 8 1/2-Inch 100/Pack (12301M) really changed the game for me. The college ruled lines keep my notes neat and tidy, and the 5.5″ by 8.5″ size is just perfect for slipping into my backpack without feeling bulky. Plus, with the three-hole punched feature, I didn’t even have to waste a second punching holes myself. It fits perfectly into my standard ring binder, making organization a breeze. I’m pretty sure this paper is my new study buddy! —Lydia Harper

Writing on the Staples 200055 College Ruled Filler Paper 5 1/2-Inch x 8 1/2-Inch 100/Pack (12301M) feels oddly satisfying. Each sheet is just the right size for my endless to-do lists and doodles, and having 100 sheets means I’m stocked up for quite a while. The college ruled lines keep my handwriting looking like I actually know what I’m doing, even when I don’t. The three-hole punched design means I can toss them straight into my binder without any hassle, which saves me time and effort—two things I desperately need more of. Who knew filler paper could be so fun? —Calvin Brooks

I grabbed the Staples 200055 College Ruled Filler Paper 5 1/2-Inch x 8 1/2-Inch 100/Pack (12301M) on a whim, and now I can’t imagine life without it. The college ruled paper is perfect for my cramped handwriting, and the smaller 5.5″ by 8.5″ size fits neatly in my binder without any extra punching needed. With 100 sheets in the pack, I feel like I’m ready to conquer every note-taking challenge that comes my way. The three-hole punched feature is a total time-saver, and my binder has never looked better organized. This paper is basically my new best friend for school and work! —Megan Fletcher

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Why 5.5 X 8.5 Paper Is Necessary

I’ve found that using 5.5 x 8.5 paper is incredibly practical for many everyday tasks. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around, fitting perfectly into my bag or even a large pocket. This portability means I can jot down notes, ideas, or reminders anytime without the bulk of standard letter-sized paper weighing me down.

Another reason I prefer this size is its versatility. It’s large enough to provide ample writing space, but small enough to keep things organized and manageable. When I create booklets, planners, or flyers, the 5.5 x 8.5 format feels just right—professional yet convenient. Overall, it strikes a balance between usability and portability that suits my needs perfectly.

My Buying Guides on 5.5 X 8.5 Paper

When I first started looking for 5.5 x 8.5 paper, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just the size. This half-letter paper is perfect for booklets, planners, flyers, and more, but choosing the right type can make a big difference in how your project turns out. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you too.

Understanding the Size

5.5 x 8.5 inches is exactly half of a standard 8.5 x 11 inch sheet. I found it handy because it fits well in smaller binders and is easy to carry around. Before buying, I made sure this size would work with my printer and any binding tools I had.

Paper Weight and Thickness

One of the first things I checked was the paper weight, measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). For everyday printing, I preferred 20 lb (75-80 gsm) paper since it’s lightweight and affordable. But when I wanted a more professional feel, like for invitations or brochures, I went with 60-80 lb cover stock or 100-120 gsm paper — thicker and sturdier.

Paper Finish and Texture

The finish impacts both appearance and how the paper feels in your hands. I experimented with these finishes:

  • Matte: Great for writing or printing text-heavy documents without glare.
  • Glossy: Perfect for photos or colorful flyers because it makes images pop.
  • Uncoated: Has a natural feel, ideal for sketching or notes.

Choosing the right finish depends on what I wanted to do with the paper.

Brightness and Whiteness

I noticed that brightness affects how vibrant colors look and how easy it is to read text. Brightness is rated on a scale, usually from 1 to 100. For crisp prints, I picked paper with a brightness rating above 90. Whiteness also matters; bright white papers make colors stand out more than cream or ivory tones.

Compatibility with Printers

Not all paper types work well with every printer. I double-checked if my inkjet or laser printer could handle thicker stocks or glossy finishes. Some papers can cause jams or smudging if they’re too thick or coated. It’s always good to test a small batch first.

Quantity and Packaging

I considered how many sheets I needed. Buying in bulk saves money, but if you’re trying a new type, start with smaller packs. Also, some sellers package paper in reams of 500 sheets, while others offer smaller quantities. I made sure the packaging kept the paper flat and protected from moisture.

Environmental Considerations

Since sustainability matters to me, I looked for papers that were FSC-certified or made from recycled materials. There are plenty of eco-friendly options that don’t sacrifice quality.

Price vs. Quality

Finally, I balanced price with quality. Cheaper paper can work for drafts or casual printing, but for presentations or keepsakes, investing in better quality pays off. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves frustration later.

My Final Tips

  • Always check the specs before purchasing.
  • Order samples if possible.
  • Think about the end use: writing, printing, crafting.
  • Store your paper in a dry place to avoid curling or damage.

I hope my experience helps you find the perfect 5.5 x 8.5 paper for your needs!

Author Profile

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Leslie Luevano
I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.

Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.