Part of our Grinders & Accessories Guide series
RAW, Elements, and OCB are the three most popular premium rolling paper brands. Each has loyal fans and distinct characteristics. Here's how they compare.
Brand Overview
RAW
Founded by Josh Kesselman, RAW has become synonymous with quality rolling papers. Based in Spain, known for unbleached, natural products.
- Founded: 2005
- Headquarters: Spain (production in Alcoy)
- Philosophy: Natural, unrefined, chemical-free
Elements
Also owned by HBI (RAW's parent company), Elements focuses on ultra-thin rice papers designed for the purest experience.
- Founded: 1994
- Material: Rice with sugar gum
- Philosophy: Ultra-thin, minimal ash
OCB
French company with over 100 years of history, known for premium quality and European craftsmanship.
- Founded: 1918
- Headquarters: France
- Philosophy: French quality, diverse options
Material Comparison
| Brand/Line | Material | Bleached? | Thickness |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAW Classic | Unrefined hemp/flax | No | Thin |
| RAW Organic | Organic hemp | No | Thin |
| RAW Black | Hemp/flax | No | Ultra-thin |
| Elements | Rice | No | Ultra-thin |
| Elements Red | Hemp | No | Thin |
| OCB Organic | Organic hemp | No | Thin |
| OCB Virgin | Unbleached | No | Thin |
| OCB Premium | Flax | Yes (minimal) | Medium |
Burn Quality
RAW
- Even, consistent burn
- Medium-slow burn rate
- Minimal canoeing with proper roll
- RAW Black burns slowest in the line
Elements
- Very slow burn (rice paper)
- Produces almost no ash
- Clean, even burn
- May go out if not puffed regularly
OCB
- Consistent, reliable burn
- Medium burn rate (varies by line)
- Good airflow
- French cut for even burning
Best burn: Elements (slowest), RAW Black (close second)
Taste Impact
RAW
- Slight earthy/natural taste
- Less interference than wood pulp papers
- Organic line is even cleaner
Elements
- Most neutral taste
- Rice paper adds minimal flavor
- Purest smoking experience
OCB
- Clean, subtle taste
- Hemp lines are slightly more noticeable
- Premium line is very clean
Best for taste: Elements (most neutral)
Rolling Ease
RAW
- Good grip, moderate stickiness
- Forgiving for beginners
- Classic is easiest, Black is more difficult
Elements
- Slippery (rice paper)
- Requires more skill
- Not ideal for beginners
- Gum strip works well
OCB
- Easy to roll
- Good paper texture
- Reliable gum strip
- Beginner-friendly
Easiest to roll: OCB (most forgiving) > RAW > Elements
Price Comparison
Prices for 1 1/4 size packs (approximate):
| Brand/Line | Booklet Price | Leaves per Pack |
|---|---|---|
| RAW Classic | $2-3 | 50 |
| RAW Organic | $2.50-3.50 | 50 |
| RAW Black | $3-4 | 50 |
| Elements | $2.50-3.50 | 50 |
| OCB Organic | $2.50-3.50 | 50 |
| OCB Virgin | $2.50-3.50 | 50 |
All three brands are similarly priced at the premium tier. RAW Classic offers the best value.
Product Range
RAW
Largest product range:
- Multiple paper lines
- Pre-rolled cones
- Trays, tips, accessories
- Extensive ecosystem
Elements
Focused but complete:
- Rice papers (main line)
- Hemp papers (Red)
- Cones and tips
- More limited accessories
OCB
European range:
- Multiple paper lines
- Filters and tips
- Limited US accessories
- Some unique options
Who Should Choose Each?
Choose RAW If:
- You want natural, unrefined papers
- You're a beginner (start with Classic)
- You like having many product options
- You want widely available papers
Choose Elements If:
- Taste purity is your top priority
- You want the slowest burn
- You have rolling experience
- You prefer ultra-thin papers
Choose OCB If:
- You want reliable, easy rolling
- You appreciate European craftsmanship
- You want clean burn with easy technique
- You're looking for variety
Our Verdict
Best Overall: RAW - widest selection, consistent quality, great value
Best for Taste: Elements - ultra-thin rice paper, neutral taste
Best for Beginners: OCB or RAW Classic - forgiving and easy to roll
Best Slow Burn: Elements or RAW Black - both excellent
Honestly, you can't go wrong with any of these brands. They're all premium quality, and preference often comes down to personal experience.