Best Photo Paper for Canon PIXMA PRO-200
If you’ve recently upgraded to the Canon PIXMA PRO-200, you already know its eight-color dye-based ink system produces breathtaking vibrance. However, feeding this beast the wrong “diet” of paper can lead to muddy shadows or distracting bronzing. I’ve spent dozens of hours testing various surfaces to see which fibers best hold the ChromaLife 100+ inks. While the Canon Photo Paper Pro Luster remains my top recommendation for consistency, finding the right match depends entirely on whether you’re printing family portraits or gallery-ready landscapes.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Photo Paper for Canon PIXMA PRO-200: Detailed Reviews
Canon Photo Paper Pro Luster (LU-101) View on Amazon View on B&H
There is a reason why the LU-101 is the industry standard for Canon’s PRO-series dye printers. This paper offers a beautiful pebbled texture that effectively hides fingerprints and reduces the harsh glare often found on high-gloss finishes. In my testing, the PRO-200’s gray and light gray inks render exceptionally smooth gradients on this surface, making it my “go-to” for wedding photography where skin tones are critical. The 255 gsm weight feels substantial in the hand without being so thick that it causes feed issues in the rear tray. While it doesn’t have the ultimate “punch” of a high-gloss paper, the sophisticated sheen is much better suited for framing behind glass. One minor drawback is that the drying time is slightly longer than cheaper alternatives, so I’d recommend letting your 13×19 prints sit for a few minutes before stacking them.
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Canon Photo Paper Plus Glossy II (PP-201) View on Amazon View on B&H
If you want your colors to practically jump off the page, the Photo Paper Plus Glossy II is the sweet spot of the Canon lineup. Dye-based printers like the PRO-200 excel on glossy media because the ink can fully sink into the receiving layer, resulting in a mirror-like finish that pigment printers struggle to match. At 265 gsm, it’s actually slightly heavier than the Luster paper, giving it a premium feel that belies its mid-range price. I find this paper particularly effective for night photography or high-contrast street shots where you want the deepest possible blacks (D-Max). The color gamut is noticeably wider here than on matte papers. The only caveat is that it is a magnet for fingerprints, so you’ll want to handle your prints with cotton gloves. For those who print frequently, buying this in the 50-sheet 13×19 packs offers the best price-to-performance ratio available.
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Canon Everyday Glossy (GP-501) View on Amazon View on B&H
Let’s be honest: not every print needs to be a masterpiece. When I’m testing layout designs or printing quick 4×6 snapshots for the fridge, I reach for Canon Everyday Glossy. At 210 gsm, it is noticeably thinner and more flexible than the “Pro” or “Plus” lines, which makes it feel a bit more like a traditional lab print. Surprisingly, the color reproduction remains quite accurate because it’s designed specifically for the ChromaLife 100+ ink set. You won’t get the same archival longevity or the heavy “museum” feel, but for the price of a few cups of coffee, you can get a 100-pack of 4×6 sheets. It’s the perfect choice for hobbyists who are still learning the ropes of the PRO-200 and don’t want to “waste” expensive Pro Luster on test prints. Just be aware that this paper can curl slightly in humid environments due to its lighter weight.
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Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum (PT-101) View on Amazon View on B&H
When you want the absolute pinnacle of what the PRO-200 can achieve, Pro Platinum is the answer. This is a heavy-duty, 300 gsm flagship paper that feels like a thick cardstock. It features a six-layer construction that includes a highly absorbent ink-receiving layer, which prevents ink bleed even when you’re laying down heavy amounts of dye for dark, moody images. The finish is a high-gloss that provides incredible depth; you’ll notice that shadows look deeper and highlights have a crystalline clarity that cheaper papers just can’t replicate. I find it especially stunning for wildlife photography where you want to see every detail in a bird’s feathers or the glint in an eye. It’s expensive, yes, but for a competition entry or a high-end client gift, there is no substitute. Because of its thickness, make sure to use the manual feed slot on your PRO-200 to avoid any potential head strikes.
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Red River Paper 68lb. UltraPro Satin View on Amazon View on B&H
While I usually stick to Canon brand papers for the ease of built-in profiles, Red River’s 68lb UltraPro Satin is the exception that proves the rule. This paper is a darling of the PRO-200 community because Red River provides custom ICC profiles that are specifically tuned for Canon’s dye inks. The finish sits somewhere between a luster and a semi-gloss, offering a very modern, clean look that isn’t too “bumpy.” What I love about this paper is its versatility; it’s thick enough for professional portfolios but affordable enough to use for custom greeting cards (which Red River also sells in pre-scored sizes). It has a bright white base that makes colors pop, though it does use Optical Brightening Agents (OBAs), so it might not be the choice for 100-year archival fine art. If you’re looking for an alternative to Canon’s ecosystem without sacrificing quality, this is the one.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose Photo Paper
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon Pro Luster | Pro Portraits | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Canon Glossy II | Vibrant Landscapes | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Canon Everyday | Casual Snapshots | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Canon Pro Platinum | Gallery Exhibits | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Red River Satin | Greeting Cards | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are ICC profiles and why do I need them for the PRO-200?
ICC profiles are small data files that tell your printer exactly how much of each ink color to spray onto a specific paper. Since every paper absorbs ink differently, using the correct profile ensures your print matches what you see on your calibrated monitor. For the PRO-200, Canon’s own papers have built-in profiles in the driver, but for third-party papers like Red River or Hahnemühle, you’ll need to download them from the manufacturer’s website.
Can I use Matte Fine Art paper with the PRO-200 dye inks?
Yes, but with a caveat. Dye inks often look “flatter” on matte paper compared to pigment inks because the dye penetrates deeper into the fibers. However, if you use a high-quality coated matte paper like Canon Premium Matte (PM-101), you can still get excellent results. Just be aware that the blacks won’t be as deep as they are on glossy or luster surfaces. For the best “fine art” look on a PRO-200, I recommend luster.
Does the PRO-200 handle 13×19 (A3+) size paper well?
Absolutely. The PRO-200 is designed specifically for A3+ printing. You’ll notice that larger prints really allow the eight-ink system to shine, especially in the details of the gray tones. When printing this large, I highly recommend using the manual feed slot at the back for heavier papers (like Pro Platinum) to ensure the paper path stays perfectly straight, which prevents “head strikes” or ink smearing on the edges of your large prints.
How long will prints from the PRO-200 last on Canon paper?
Canon uses ChromaLife 100+ ink technology. When paired with genuine Canon papers like Pro Luster or Pro Platinum, these prints are rated to last up to 100 years in a photo album or 30 years behind glass. While dye inks were historically less stable than pigments, modern formulations have closed the gap significantly. Just keep your prints out of direct, unfiltered sunlight to ensure they don’t fade prematurely over the decades.
Is it worth buying non-Canon brand paper?
It can be! Brands like Red River, Moab, and Hahnemühle offer textures and weights that Canon doesn’t provide. However, for beginners, I always recommend starting with Canon paper. It removes the variables of ICC profiles and feed settings, allowing you to master the printer first. Once you’re comfortable, moving to third-party papers can give your work a unique “signature” look that sets your portfolio apart from others using standard stock.
Final Verdict
For most users, the Canon Pro Luster (LU-101) is the ultimate choice; it balances professional texture with ease of use. If you’re a landscape photographer who loves “pop,” stick with the Glossy II. For those rare occasions where you need to impress a gallery or a high-end client, splurge on the Pro Platinum. No matter which you choose, remember that the PRO-200 is a precision tool—always match your software settings to your paper for the best results.