Ilford MULTIGRADE RC Deluxe vs FB Classic: Which Paper to Print On

Quick answer

Choose Ilford MULTIGRADE RC Deluxe (Pearl) if you want fast, consistent prints with minimal washing and drying time. Choose Ilford MULTIGRADE FB Classic (Glossy) if you prioritize archival fiber-based prints and a traditional darkroom workflow, and you are willing to handle longer processing and careful drying.

RC vs fiber: workflow and handling differences

RC (resin-coated) paper like MULTIGRADE RC Deluxe has a polyethylene layer on both sides of the paper base, which limits chemical absorption. This shortens wash times and allows faster drying, often with less curl. Fiber-based paper like MULTIGRADE FB Classic is uncoated paper, so it absorbs more chemistry and requires longer washing and controlled drying to prevent curl or surface damage.

For high-volume printing or quick proofing, RC paper saves time. For exhibition prints or long-term archival storage, fiber paper is the traditional choice because it lacks the plastic layer and is considered more stable over time. However, fiber paper demands more attention to washing and drying, and it may curl if dried improperly.

Surface: pearl vs glossy and how it affects your image

The Ilford MULTIGRADE RC Deluxe listed here has a pearl surface, which is slightly textured and reduces glare compared to glossy. Pearl is forgiving of minor surface imperfections and works well for prints that will be handled or displayed under glass. The Ilford MULTIGRADE FB Classic listed here has a glossy surface, which delivers deeper blacks and higher contrast, but it can show fingerprints and reflections more readily.

Your choice of surface also affects toning and spotting. Glossy fiber paper often responds well to toners and gives a classic darkroom look, while pearl RC paper is less prone to showing retouching marks. Consider how the final print will be viewed: pearl for casual handling or low-glare display, glossy for maximum depth and traditional fiber aesthetics.

Cost and quantity: what you get for the price

Both papers come in 11 x 14-inch sheets, 10 sheets per pack. The RC Deluxe pack is priced at $25.52 (compared to a $35.95 comparison price), while the FB Classic pack is $33.24 (compared to $47.49). The lower upfront cost of RC Deluxe makes it a more economical choice for practice, proofing, or high-volume work. FB Classic costs more per sheet, but that reflects the fiber base and traditional manufacturing.

If you are learning to print or experimenting with different exposures, RC paper’s lower cost and faster processing let you iterate quickly. For final prints or limited editions, the higher cost of FB Classic may be justified by its archival qualities and distinct look. Keep in mind that both papers are available at a discount from the comparison price, but the absolute savings are higher on the FB Classic pack.

Trade-offs to weigh

• Processing time: RC Deluxe develops faster and washes in minutes, while FB Classic requires longer fixing and washing (often 30+ minutes) and controlled drying to prevent curl. If your darkroom sessions are short or shared, RC saves significant time.
• Archival expectations: FB Classic is fiber-based and generally preferred for archival prints, but it demands proper washing and storage to realize that potential. RC Deluxe is resin-coated and not considered archival by traditional standards. For prints intended to last generations, fiber is the safer bet—if you can commit to the process.
• Surface and handling: Pearl RC is more forgiving of fingerprints and minor scratches, while glossy FB shows marks easily but offers greater depth and tone separation. Choose pearl for high-touch or low-maintenance display; choose glossy for maximum impact in framed exhibition prints.

Product facts

• Ilford MULTIGRADE RC Deluxe Paper (Pearl, 11 x 14″, 10 Sheets): Pearl surface, 11 x 14 inches, 10 sheets, catalog price $25.52 (comparison price $35.95). The pearl texture reduces glare and hides minor handling marks, making it practical for prints that will be frequently handled or displayed under glass.

  

• Ilford Multigrade FB Classic Paper (Glossy, 11 x 14″, 10 Sheets): Glossy surface, 11 x 14 inches, 10 sheets, catalog price $33.24 (comparison price $47.49). The glossy fiber surface yields deeper blacks and a classic darkroom look, but requires more careful handling to avoid fingerprints and surface damage.

  

Which paper fits your darkroom?

Best for

• Beginners and students learning darkroom printing who need fast feedback and low cost per print.
• High-volume proofing or contact sheet printing where speed and convenience matter.
• Prints that will be handled frequently or displayed under glass where glare reduction is helpful.

Not for

• Archival or exhibition prints where fiber-based paper is expected.
• Photographers who prefer a glossy surface for maximum black density.
• Anyone unwilling to manage longer wash times and careful drying.