Best Photo Paper for Canon PIXMA TS9520
The Canon PIXMA TS9520 is a rare beast in the printing world, blending wide-format 11×17 capability with a specialized five-ink system that’s a dream for crafters and photographers alike. However, I’ve seen too many stunning shots ruined by using generic, low-grade paper that causes ink pooling or dull colors. To truly unlock this printer’s potential, you need media that respects its ChromaLife100+ ink technology. After testing dozens of finishes, Canon’s Photo Paper Plus Glossy II remains my definitive top recommendation for professional results.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Photo Paper for Canon PIXMA TS9520: Detailed Reviews
Canon Photo Paper Plus Glossy II View on Amazon View on B&H
If you want your prints to look like they came from a professional lab, the Canon Photo Paper Plus Glossy II (PP-201) is the gold standard for the TS9520. Since the TS9520 uses a five-ink system with a dedicated pigment black for text and dye-based colors for photos, this paper is specifically engineered to absorb those dye inks deeply while maintaining a crisp surface. I find the 265 g/m² weight gives it a substantial, premium feel in the hand that lighter papers just can’t match. The color reproduction is exceptionally accurate, particularly in the warm tones and deep blues that the PIXMA series is known for. It also features a multi-layer coating that accelerates drying time, which is crucial when you’re printing 11×17 posters. The only downside is the price per sheet for larger sizes, but for portfolio-worthy work, it’s worth every penny.
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Canon Photo Paper Plus Semi-Gloss View on Amazon View on B&H
I’ve always preferred semi-gloss or “satin” finishes for portraits because they don’t show fingerprints as easily as high-gloss papers. The Canon SG-201 Semi-Gloss is the perfect companion for the TS9520 when you’re printing 12×12 scrapbook pages or framed family photos. It provides a sophisticated, velvety texture that drastically reduces glare under studio lights or bright windows. With a weight of 260 g/m², it’s nearly as thick as the Glossy II, ensuring that your prints don’t curl at the edges. One thing you’ll notice is how well it handles skin tones; the slight texture helps soften transitions and hides minor digital noise. While it doesn’t offer the absolute highest “pop” for high-contrast landscapes, it is much more versatile for everyday display and handled media. It’s a smart buy for those who want a professional look without the distracting reflections of a mirror-like finish.
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Canon Glossy Photo Paper GP-701 View on Amazon View on B&H
For those times when you just need to print off fifty 4×6 snapshots from a birthday party or a quick project for the kids, using “Pro” paper is a waste of money. The GP-701 “Everyday Use” paper is Canon’s answer to the budget-conscious printer owner. At 210 g/m², it is noticeably thinner than the Plus Glossy II, but it still features the essential coatings needed for the TS9520’s inks to adhere without smearing. I often use this paper for proofing my 11×17 layouts before committing to a more expensive sheet. While the blacks aren’t quite as deep and the colors aren’t as punchy as higher-tier options, it still outperforms third-party “store brand” papers because the printer’s internal firmware is literally tuned for this specific media. It’s an honest, reliable choice for high-volume printing where archival longevity isn’t the primary concern.
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Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum View on Amazon View on B&H
When you have a photo that truly captures a “once-in-a-lifetime” moment, you need Pro Platinum (PT-101). This is Canon’s flagship photo paper, and it feels like a heavy cardstock in the hand. At 300 g/m², it is about as thick as the TS9520 can safely feed through its rear tray without jamming. The “Platinum” name comes from the six-layer structure designed to maximize the D-max (maximum density) of your blacks. On the TS9520, this creates an incredible sense of depth and contrast that mimics the look of traditional darkroom prints. It is highly resistant to fading and atmospheric pollutants, making it the best choice for photos that will be framed without UV-protective glass. You’ll notice a distinct “shimmer” to the highlights that cheaper papers simply cannot replicate. It’s expensive, yes, but for your absolute best shots, nothing else comes close.
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Canon Matte Photo Paper View on Amazon View on B&H
The TS9520 is a favorite for scrapbookers because it can handle 12×12 cardstock and specialty papers. The Canon MP-101 Matte Photo Paper is an essential part of that workflow. Unlike glossy papers, this matte surface has zero reflection, making it ideal for art prints and greeting cards where you might want to write a personal message on the surface. Because the TS9520 uses a dedicated pigment black ink, text on this matte paper is incredibly sharp—sharper, in fact, than on glossy media. I find this paper particularly effective for black and white photography where you want a moody, artistic look. It’s a thinner 170 g/m², so it’s easy to fold for cards or cut for elaborate scrapbook layouts. It’s a niche product compared to glossy papers, but it’s the best at what it does.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose Photo Paper for the TS9520
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon Plus Glossy II | Standard Photography | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Canon Semi-Gloss | Portraits/Display | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Canon GP-701 | Everyday Snapshots | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Canon Pro Platinum | Gallery/Fine Art | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Canon Matte MP-101 | Crafts/Cards | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use non-Canon paper in my TS9520?
Yes, you can use third-party papers like Epson or HP, but you may notice slight color shifts. This is because the TS9520 has built-in color profiles (ICC profiles) specifically calibrated for Canon’s chemical coatings. If you use other brands, you might need to manually adjust your color settings in the print dialog to avoid overly saturated or “muddy” results.
What is the thickest paper the TS9520 can handle?
The TS9520 can officially handle paper up to 300 g/m² through the rear tray. I strongly recommend against using the bottom cassette for heavy photo paper, as the tight “U-turn” the paper must make can cause jams or roller marks on the glossy surface. Always use the rear flat-feed tray for anything thicker than standard office paper.
Is the TS9520 good for 12×12 scrapbooking paper?
Absolutely. It is one of the few consumer printers that natively supports 12×12 inch borderless printing. When buying 12×12 paper, make sure it is specifically labeled for “Inkjet” use. Laser-specific paper or generic cardstock may not absorb the dye-based inks correctly, resulting in a blurry image that never fully dries.
Does the “Glossy II” paper really last 100 years?
When used with Canon’s ChromaLife100+ inks (like those in the TS9520), prints are rated to last up to 100 years in an archival-quality album. If displayed behind glass, they can last up to 30 years without significant fading. This is why I always suggest sticking with the official media for photos you intend to pass down to family.
Why do my prints look dark on matte paper?
Matte paper doesn’t reflect light like glossy paper, so the perceived contrast is lower. Additionally, the TS9520 uses more of its pigment black ink on matte surfaces. To fix this, I usually bump the brightness up by about 10% in the editing software before hitting print to compensate for the natural absorption of the matte finish.
Final Verdict
To get the best from your Canon PIXMA TS9520, matching the paper to your specific project is key. If you are printing large 11×17 landscapes, the Plus Glossy II is undeniably the king of color and depth. For those focused on scrapbooking or portraits, the Semi-Gloss or Matte options provide a sophisticated texture that handles light and fingerprints much better. Don’t let cheap, generic paper bottleneck your high-end printer—investing in the right media makes all the difference.