OCB vs RAW Rolling Papers — Which Brand Is Better?



OCB and RAW are the two most discussed rolling paper brands in the world. They’re both in the premium tier, both use natural materials, and they’re frequently stocked side by side in every head shop. If you’ve been using one and wondering about the other, this head-to-head covers everything you need to make the decision.

Brand Overviews

OCB (Odet-Cascadec-Bolloré) is a French company making rolling papers since 1918. OCB is famous for its ultra-thin rice papers — specifically OCB X-Pert — which are among the thinnest machine-rollable papers available. Their papers tend to have a more neutral taste than RAW.

RAW was founded in 2005 as an all-natural, unbleached alternative to processed white papers. RAW uses an unbleached hemp/fibre blend with a distinctive criss-cross watermark pattern that helps prevent runs. Now the top-selling rolling paper brand in the USA.

Head-to-Head Breakdown

Thickness — Winner: OCB X-Pert

OCB X-Pert is routinely cited as one of the thinnest rolling papers available — thin enough to see your fingers through when held up to light. RAW Classic is medium-thin; RAW Black is closer to OCB X-Pert in thickness. If pure thinness is your priority, OCB X-Pert wins.

Burn Rate — Winner: Tie

OCB X-Pert burns very slowly because thin paper combusts less per unit time. RAW Classic burns at a medium-slow pace because the unbleached fibre is denser. Both burn slower than cheap bleached papers.

Taste — Winner: OCB (neutral) or RAW (earthy character)

OCB papers have minimal flavour impact — designed to let the contents come through without adding taste. RAW papers have a mild earthy, hemp-like undertone from the unbleached fibre. If you want pure contents flavour, OCB is cleaner. If you enjoy the light earthy note, RAW is perfectly pleasant.

Gum Strip — Winner: RAW

RAW uses Arabic gum, consistently rated as one of the stickiest, most reliable gum strips in rolling papers. RAW’s gum strip re-adheres if you press it down while still wet — a minor but noticeable advantage for experienced rollers.

Rolling Ease — Winner: RAW Classic (beginners); OCB X-Pert (experienced)

RAW Classic’s medium thickness is more forgiving for beginners — it doesn’t tear as easily as ultra-thin papers. If you’re new to rolling, RAW Classic is the more beginner-friendly option.

Value — Winner: OCB (slight edge)

Both brands are priced similarly at $2–4 per booklet. OCB X-Pert packs tend to have more papers per pack (50 sheets vs RAW’s typical 32), giving OCB a slight value advantage per sheet.

Full Comparison Table

Which Brand Should You Buy?

Choose OCB if: You want the thinnest possible paper, prefer a near-neutral taste, are comfortable rolling with thinner papers, or want more papers per pack for the money.

Choose RAW if: You want unbleached all-natural papers, prefer slightly thicker papers that are easier to handle, want the best gum strip reliability, or are a beginner (RAW Classic specifically).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is OCB or RAW more popular?

RAW is the best-selling rolling paper brand in the USA. OCB is more popular in Europe, particularly France, Spain, and the UK where it has a longer history. Both are globally recognised premium brands.

Can I use OCB X-Pert papers in a rolling machine?

Yes — OCB X-Pert works in standard belt-style rolling machines. Insert the ultra-thin paper slowly and apply gentle pressure through the machine to avoid tearing.

Are OCB papers bleached white?

OCB X-Pert is white but uses a chlorine-free bleaching process. OCB Organic Hemp is unbleached (natural brown). RAW papers are also unbleached. Both brands avoid chlorine in their manufacturing.

Which has a bigger selection — OCB or RAW?

RAW has the larger product range — Classic, Organic Hemp, Black, Connoisseur, multiple sizes, cones, and accessories. OCB has a narrower lineup focused on X-Pert, Premium, and Organic Hemp.

Final Thoughts

Both brands are genuinely excellent and significantly better than cheap supermarket papers. For beginners or anyone who wants reliable all-natural papers: RAW Classic. For experienced rollers who want the thinnest possible paper and cleanest burn: OCB X-Pert. It’s not a question of which brand is better — it’s a question of which paper fits your rolling style.

Prices listed are approximate and may vary by retailer. Always check current pricing before purchasing. The Smokery Hub is not responsible for third-party product availability or pricing changes.

Blaze Jax

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