Duplex Board
Duplex board is the economical workhorse of everyday cartons. It has two visibly different sides: a coated, printable top (usually white) and a back that is either grey (grey-back duplex) or white (white-back duplex). It typically contains recycled fibre, which is what keeps its cost well below FBB and SBS.
At a glance
- Type
- Two-layer coated board, often recycled
- Top surface
- Coated white, good print
- Back
- Grey (grey-back) or white (white-back)
- GSM range
- 220 – 400 GSM
- Relative cost
- Lowest of the common cartonboards
- Good on the coated front
In more detail
For price-sensitive, high-volume cartons such as soaps, biscuits, hardware and mass FMCG, duplex delivers a clean printed front at the lowest cost. LeRoy Print Packs runs duplex where the brief calls for value over premium hand-feel.
Strengths
- Most economical cartonboard for high-volume, price-sensitive work
- Coated white top gives a clean, well-printed front
- White-back option when the inside/back also needs to look clean
- Widely available and cost-stable
Things to consider
- Not as bright or premium as FBB/SBS; recycled fibre
- Grey back is visible inside the carton
- Check suitability before direct food contact (grade-dependent)
Best for
Economical, high-volume cartons: soaps, biscuits, stationery, hardware, and mass FMCG where cost per carton is the priority.
Common questions
What is the difference between grey-back and white-back duplex?
Grey-back duplex has a grey (recycled) reverse and is the cheapest option, fine when the inside of the carton isn't seen. White-back duplex has a white reverse for a cleaner look inside or on the back panel, at a small premium. Both share the same coated white printable front.
Is duplex board cheaper than FBB?
Yes. Duplex is the most economical of the common cartonboards because it typically uses recycled fibre and a simpler two-layer construction. FBB and SBS cost more but offer better whiteness, stiffness-to-weight, and premium feel.
Can duplex board be used for food packaging?
It depends on the grade. Some food-grade duplex boards exist, but standard recycled duplex is better suited to non-food or secondary packaging. For direct food contact we generally recommend FBB or SBS. Tell us the application and we'll specify appropriately.
Related materials
Products made with it
Written by LeRoy Print Packs, a printing and packaging manufacturer making cartons, corrugated boxes and labels in-house. Get a quote