Choosing the right photo enlarging paper can make as much difference as your enlarger settings. Surface finish, base type, and contrast response all affect the final print.
This roundup focuses on 10 Ilford options across resin-coated and fiber-based papers, so you can match your paper to portrait, landscape, or exhibition-style black-and-white printing.
Best 10 Photo Enlarging Paper Picks for 2026
Classic Contrast Control
Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe 8x10 Glossy
- 8x10 glossy RC paper
- Variable-contrast black-and-white printing
- 25-sheet pack
Best For: Darkroom printers wanting strong contrast control and a glossy finish
Pocket-Sized Darkroom Pick
Ilford Multigrade IV 5x7 Pearl 25 Sheets
- Compact 5x7 enlarging paper
- Pearl finish for a softer look
- 25-sheet black-and-white pack
Best For: Smaller black-and-white enlargements with a pearl surface
Versatile Pearl Finish
Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe 8x10 Pearl
- 8x10 pearl-surface RC paper
- Works with Multigrade filters
- Tray or machine processing
Best For: Users who want flexible processing and a pearl finish
Glossy Starter Pack
Ilford Multigrade IV 5x7 Glossy 25 Sheets
- 5x7 glossy enlarging paper
- Resin-coated black-and-white pack
- 25 sheets per box
Best For: Smaller glossy black-and-white enlargements
Premium Pearl Enlarging Pick
Ilford Multigrade V RC Deluxe Pearl 8x10, 25 Sheets
- Variable contrast black-and-white paper
- Pearl finish with sharp detail
- 8x10 sheets designed for enlarging
Best For: Darkroom enlargements with contrast control and a refined pearl finish
Traditional Fiber-Base Choice
Ilford Multigrade FB Classic Matte 11x14, 10 Sheets
- Fiber-based paper for classic darkroom use
- Matte finish for low-reflection prints
- Large 11x14 sheets for bigger enlargements
Best For: Traditional black-and-white enlargements with a matte look
Best Bulk Pearl Pack
Ilford Multigrade V RC Deluxe Pearl 8x10, 50 Sheets
- 50-sheet pack for extended darkroom use
- Pearl surface with neutral base tint
- 190gsm resin-coated paper for enlarging
Best For: Black-and-white enlargements when you want more sheets per pack
Classic Fiber-Based VC Enlarging Paper
Ilford Multigrade IV FB 8x10 100 Sheets
- Fiber-based black-and-white enlarging paper
- Glossy surface with variable contrast
- 100-sheet pack for darkroom printing
Best For: Darkroom printers wanting a classic fiber-based glossy paper
Large-Format RC Glossy Sheet Pack
Ilford Multigrade V RC 11x14 10 Sheets
- 11x14 size for larger enlargements
- Resin-coated black-and-white paper
- Glossy finish in a 10-sheet pack
Best For: Large black-and-white prints on resin-coated glossy paper
Pearl RC Variable-Contrast Paper
Ilford Multigrade IV RC 8x10 25 Sheets
- 8x10 resin-coated black-and-white paper
- Pearl surface for a balanced finish
- 25-sheet pack for moderate printing
Best For: Users wanting a smaller-pack RC enlarging paper with pearl finish
Classic Contrast Control – Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe 8×10 Glossy
If you want photo enlarging paper for traditional black-and-white printing, this Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe sheet pack is built for strong tonal control. The glossy 8×10 format and resin-coated base are aimed at prints with sparkling whites, rich blacks, and a wide tonal range.
Best For: Darkroom printers who want a glossy 8×10 RC paper for variable-contrast black-and-white enlargements.
Pros:
- Resin-coated base for durable handling in the darkroom
- Glossy surface supports sparkling whites and rich blacks
- Variable-contrast paper with a wide tonal range
- 25-sheet pack in a standard 8×10 size
Cons:
- Glossy finish may not suit every aesthetic
- Not water resistant
- Designed for black-and-white enlarging, not general color printing
This is a straightforward choice if your priority is tonal flexibility and a classic glossy print look. The 8×10 size also makes it practical for consistent darkroom work.
Pocket-Sized Darkroom Pick – Ilford Multigrade IV 5×7 Pearl 25 Sheets
This photo enlarging paper is a compact 5×7 Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe pack with a pearl surface, making it a practical option when you want smaller prints and a softer finish. The resin-coated construction and multigrade design are suited to black-and-white darkroom work with flexible tonal results.
Best For: Printing smaller black-and-white enlargements with a pearl finish in a 5×7 format.
Pros:
- 5×7 size is useful for smaller enlargements
- Pearl surface offers a less glossy look than full gloss
- Multigrade black-and-white paper for tonal control
- 25 sheets per pack
Cons:
- Smaller sheet size limits larger print work
- Not water resistant
- Surface is limited to pearl/glossy-satin style options
If you need a smaller-format enlarging paper with a balanced finish, this pack keeps the workflow simple. It makes most sense for printers who value a pearl surface and compact output over larger sheet sizes.
Versatile Pearl Finish – Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe 8×10 Pearl
Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe Resin Coated VC Paper, 8x10-Inches, 25-Pack (Pearl)
Check Price On AmazonFor buyers comparing photo enlarging paper options, this Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe 8×10 pack stands out for its pearl surface and machine-or-tray processing flexibility. It uses a resin-coated base, bright base tint, and is designed for use with all brands of Multigrade filters.
Best For: Darkroom users who want an 8×10 pearl-surface paper that works with Multigrade filters and different processing methods.
Pros:
- Pearl surface for a less reflective print look
- Compatible with all brands of Multigrade filters
- Can be processed in machine or trays
- 8×10 25-pack format
Cons:
- Not water resistant
- Limited to black-and-white enlarging use
- Pearl finish may not be ideal if you want a high-gloss look
This is a practical all-rounder if you want flexibility in both processing and contrast control. The pearl finish gives it a different presentation than glossy sheets while keeping the same classic RC paper workflow.
Glossy Starter Pack – Ilford Multigrade IV 5×7 Glossy 25 Sheets
If your priority is a glossy look in a smaller format, this Ilford 5×7 multigrade sheet pack is a simple photo enlarging paper option for black-and-white printing. It uses a resin-coated base and glossy surface, which is well suited to prints where you want a brighter, more reflective presentation.
Best For: Black-and-white enlargements in 5×7 size when you want a glossy surface.
Pros:
- Glossy finish for a bright print appearance
- 5×7 format works well for smaller enlargements
- Resin-coated base for darkroom handling
- 25-sheet pack keeps it straightforward for testing or regular use
Cons:
- Small format may not suit larger prints
- Not water resistant
- Glossy surface may not appeal to users wanting a softer finish
This pack is best viewed as a compact, glossy option for standard black-and-white enlarging tasks. It keeps the workflow familiar while giving you the reflective surface many printers look for.
Premium Pearl Enlarging Pick – Ilford Multigrade V RC Deluxe Pearl 8×10, 25 Sheets
If you want photo enlarging paper for black-and-white darkroom work, this Ilford Multigrade V RC Deluxe sheet is built for consistent enlargements with strong tonal range. The 8×10 size, pearl surface, and resin-coated base aim to deliver crisp detail, controlled contrast, and a finish that handles display well.
Best For: Darkroom printers who want a pearl-surface enlarging paper with contrast control and a stable 8×10 format.
Pros:
- Variable contrast design offers flexible control over image mood and tonal balance.
- Pearl surface helps reduce glare and fingerprints while keeping a refined look.
- 190gsm resin-coated base supports sharp detail and professional-style enlargements.
- Listed as ideal for enlarging in an 8×10 format.
Cons:
- Only 25 sheets per pack, so it is not the most economical bulk option.
- Not water resistant, according to the supplied details.
- Made specifically for black-and-white printing rather than general color use.
This is a practical choice if you want a photo enlarging paper that emphasizes sharpness, contrast flexibility, and a clean pearl finish. It is especially well suited to photographers who value predictable darkroom results on a smaller sheet count.
Traditional Fiber-Base Choice – Ilford Multigrade FB Classic Matte 11×14, 10 Sheets
This photo enlarging paper is aimed at black-and-white darkroom work where a fiber-based sheet and matte surface are preferred. The larger 11×14 size gives you room for bigger prints, while the fiber base is a classic choice for photographers who want a traditional enlarging workflow.
Best For: Photographers who prefer a traditional fiber-based matte enlarging paper in a larger 11×14 format.
Pros:
- Fiber-based construction suits classic darkroom printmaking preferences.
- Matte surface reduces reflections for a subdued presentation.
- 11×14 sheet size works well for larger enlargements.
- Brand-supplied as Ilford Multigrade FB Classic enlarging paper.
Cons:
- Only 10 sheets per pack, so supply is limited.
- Listed brightness is 1, which may not suit every workflow.
- Not water resistant, based on the provided details.
If you want a more traditional paper feel and a matte final look, this Ilford sheet is a straightforward enlarging option. The smaller pack size makes it better for focused printing sessions than for high-volume use.
Best Bulk Pearl Pack – Ilford Multigrade V RC Deluxe Pearl 8×10, 50 Sheets
Ilford Multigrade V RC Deluxe Pearl Surface Black & White Photo Paper, 190gsm, 8x10, 50 Sheets
Check Price On AmazonFor buyers looking for photo enlarging paper with more room to print, this Ilford Multigrade V RC Deluxe pack offers 50 sheets in an 8×10 format. The resin-coated, pearl-surface paper is designed for black-and-white printing with a neutral base tint and a grade range suited to enlarging work.
Best For: Darkroom users who want a larger pack of 8×10 pearl enlarging paper for black-and-white prints.
Pros:
- 50-sheet pack provides more prints per purchase.
- 190gsm resin-coated base supports a stable, medium-weight feel.
- Pearl surface and neutral base tint are well suited to black-and-white enlargements.
- Grade 3 or 4 designation gives some flexibility for print contrast.
Cons:
- 8×10 size may be limiting if you need larger final prints.
- Not water resistant, per the supplied specs.
- Designed for black-and-white use rather than color printing.
This pack is the most practical pick if you want a longer-lasting supply of enlarging paper without changing the paper type. It keeps the same pearl finish and RC build as the smaller version, but in a more print-friendly quantity.
Classic Fiber-Based VC Enlarging Paper – Ilford Multigrade IV FB 8×10 100 Sheets
If you want photo enlarging paper with a traditional darkroom feel, this Ilford Multigrade IV FB fiber-based sheet pack is built for black-and-white enlargements. The 8×10 size and glossy surface suit photographers looking for a classic look, while the multigrade contrast response gives flexibility when printing different negatives.
Best For: Darkroom printers who want a fiber-based black-and-white enlarging paper with a glossy finish and 100-sheet supply.
Pros:
- Fiber-based paper base for a traditional enlarging paper feel
- Variable-contrast multigrade design for black-and-white printing
- Glossy surface for a classic print appearance
- 100-sheet count offers a large working supply
Cons:
- Only available in 8×10 sheet size
- Not water resistant
This pack makes sense if you want a larger quantity of fiber-based photo enlarging paper and prefer the look and handling of classic glossy darkroom prints. It is a focused choice for black-and-white work rather than general photo printing.
Large-Format RC Glossy Sheet Pack – Ilford Multigrade V RC 11×14 10 Sheets
This photo enlarging paper is aimed at printers who want a larger 11×14 format and a glossy black-and-white finish. The resin-coated base should appeal to users who prefer an RC paper in a small 10-sheet pack, especially when working on selected enlargements rather than high-volume printing.
Best For: Photographers who want 11×14 resin-coated black-and-white enlarging paper with a glossy surface for larger prints.
Pros:
- Large 11×14 sheet size for bigger enlargements
- Resin-coated base for a different handling style than fiber-based paper
- Glossy surface for a polished black-and-white look
- Compact 10-sheet pack for targeted use
Cons:
- Only 10 sheets per pack
- Not water resistant
If your workflow calls for larger prints and you do not need a high sheet count, this is a straightforward RC option. It is best when the priority is size and a glossy finish over bulk quantity.
Pearl RC Variable-Contrast Paper – Ilford Multigrade IV RC 8×10 25 Sheets
For photographers comparing photo enlarging paper options, this Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe pack offers an 8×10 resin-coated sheet with a pearl surface. Its variable-contrast multigrade build makes it a practical black-and-white darkroom paper when you want a finish that sits between glossy and matte.
Best For: Darkroom users who want 8×10 resin-coated black-and-white enlarging paper with a pearl surface and a smaller pack size.
Pros:
- Variable-contrast multigrade paper for black-and-white enlargements
- Pearl surface for a balanced print finish
- Resin-coated base for RC-style handling
- 25-sheet pack for moderate use
Cons:
- Smaller sheet count than the 100-sheet option
- Only available in 8×10 size
- Not water resistant
This is a sensible middle-ground choice if you want the flexibility of multigrade paper without committing to a large box. The pearl surface and RC base make it a versatile option for everyday darkroom printing.
How We Picked the Best Photo Enlarging Paper
We selected papers that are widely used for traditional black-and-white darkroom printing, with a balance of RC and FB constructions, multiple surface finishes, and practical sheet counts. We also favored options that make sense for beginners and experienced printers alike, from smaller test packs to larger working formats.
Quick Comparison
In general, resin-coated papers dry faster, handle more easily, and are better for everyday printing and proofing. Fiber-based papers usually reward patience with a more classic look and a deeper tonal feel, making them better suited to final exhibition prints. Glossy surfaces tend to boost contrast and punch, while pearl and matte finishes can soften reflections and help prints feel more controlled.
Key Buying Factors for Photo Enlarging Paper
Surface Finish
Pick glossy if you want maximum density and crisp detail. Choose pearl for a balanced look with reduced glare. Matte is useful when you want a subdued presentation or less reflective display under lights.
Paper Base
RC Photo Enlarging Paper is the easiest route for most users because it is durable and simpler to process. FB paper takes longer to wash and dry, but many printers prefer its traditional feel and fine tonal separation.
Size and Sheet Count
Smaller 5×7 packs are ideal for testing exposure, contrast filters, and composition. 8×10 is the most versatile standard size for contact sheets, proofs, and finished prints. Larger formats like 11×14 are better when you already know your exposure targets and want presentation-ready output.
Contrast and Workflow
Variable-contrast paper gives you flexibility with filtration, which is especially useful if you print a range of negatives. If you mostly work with consistent negatives or want a simpler process, choose a paper surface and format that matches your regular workflow.
Who Should Buy Which Photo Enlarging Paper?
Beginners usually do best with RC pearl or glossy papers in 8×10 or 5×7 sizes because they are straightforward and forgiving. If you print frequently and want speed, RC Deluxe options are the practical choice. If you are chasing a more traditional fine-art result, fiber-based matte or glossy paper is worth the extra time and care. For anyone building a darkroom setup around dependable Photo Enlarging Paper, the best pick is the one that matches your contrast needs, drying preferences, and final presentation style.