The difference between a paper cassette and a bypass tray
Quick definition
The paper cassette is the main drawer-style paper supply that holds 250-500 sheets of standard paper for routine printing. The bypass tray is a smaller fold-down or pull-out tray on the side of the device for occasional non-standard media — heavier stocks, envelopes, labels, transparencies, and one-off custom paper sizes.
What each is for
| Feed source | Typical use |
|---|---|
| Paper cassette (main drawer) | Standard 75-90 gsm A4 or A3 paper for daily print volume |
| Bypass tray | Heavier stocks, envelopes, labels, custom sizes, one-off jobs |
| Multi-purpose tray (some devices) | Combines bypass function with larger capacity (50-100 sheets) |
| Large capacity tray (LCT) | Extra-large capacity (1,500-4,000 sheets) for high-volume mono runs |
Why the distinction matters
The paper cassette uses a separator pad and feed roller designed for standard paper. Feeding non-standard media through the cassette can damage the feed assembly, produce jams, or skew the printed image. The bypass tray uses a straighter paper path with lower roller pressure suited to thicker, heavier, or non-standard stocks. Always feed envelopes, labels, cardstock, and similar specialty media through the bypass — never through the main cassette.
Capacity and physical differences
Paper cassettes typically hold 250-500 sheets of standard paper and load by pulling the drawer out, placing the paper stack inside, and pushing the drawer back. Bypass trays typically hold 50-100 sheets and load by folding the tray down or pulling it out and placing paper directly on it. Cassettes feed automatically as part of the device's normal operation; bypass trays often require operator selection in the print dialog to use.