The advantages and limitations of single-component binders are discussed and related to current trends in the paper and board industry. To prompt discussion on the question, the issue is examined in terms of both financial and technical feasibility. Capital, labor, and handling cost savings all can be anticipated using a single-component binder, but formulation latitude may be very limited. However, the approach of custom designing a copolymer for specific mill requirements in viscosity and rheology can reduce this limitation. Special emphasis is given to the importance of copolymer composition for a single-component system, comparing an SBR to a vinyl/acrylic copolymer in application performance, coating properties, and printing quality.