A5 Notebooks: A Guide to Finding the Right One

Even in our digital-first world, nothing beats the pleasure of writing on high-quality paper. Whether you're organising your day, jotting down meeting notes, sketching an idea, or keeping a journal, the A5 notebook is the perfect size: large enough to be comfortable, yet small enough to slip into any bag. But with a sea of options available, how do you make the right choice?

Don't worry, we're here to help you cut through the noise. Here's our guide to finding the perfect A5 notebook for you, without all the unnecessary marketing jargon.

Essential Criteria for Choosing Your A5 Notebook

Before we dive into our top picks, let's review a few key points that will help you narrow down the options.

1. Paper Weight: The Devil is in the Details

Paper weight, measured in grams per square meter (g/m?), determines the paper's thickness and opacity. It's a crucial factor for your writing experience.

• 80 g/m?: This is the standard weight found in many office supplies. It's lightweight and perfect for quick notes with a ballpoint pen or pencil. Be aware that with more liquid inks, some slight show-through on the other side of the page may occur.
• 100 g/m? or higher: Here, we're moving into premium territory. The thicker, more substantial paper offers an exceptionally smooth writing surface. It significantly reduces the risk of ink showing through ("ghosting") or bleeding, making it the ideal partner for fountain pens, fine-liners, and highlighters.

2. The Cover: Durability vs. Portability

The cover type isn't just about aesthetics; it also determines your notebook's durability and usability.

• The Hardcover Notebook: Sturdy and solid, it protects your notes from daily wear and tear and provides a stable writing surface, even without a desk nearby. The sensible choice for a personal diary or a notebook you want to keep for a long time.
• The Softcover: Lighter and more flexible, it slips into any bag without adding extra weight. These notebooks are often more budget-friendly, making them an excellent option for a set of notebooks for school or professional use.

3. Binding and Use Case: A Solution for Every Need

The way the pages are bound makes all the difference in how you use it. A stitched or sewn binding, for example, ensures the notebook lays perfectly flat when open—a real advantage for writing across the entire page without obstruction. For those who love to stay organised, an undated planner offers complete freedom, allowing you to start planning at any time of the year without wasting pages.

Our Recommended A5 Notebooks

Here are a few models that caught our eye with their thoughtful design and features, tailored for different uses.

1. The Elegant Choice: Floral Hardcover A5 Notebook

What makes it special: This model makes no compromises between style, with its beautiful botanical prints, and quality. Its hardcover protects your writing, while its thick paper promises a delightful writing experience.

Highlights:

• Durable hardcover with artistic patterns.
• Ivory lined paper at 100?g/m? (96 sheets).
• Thoughtful features: ribbon bookmark and elastic closure.
• Available in 10 unique botanical designs.

Who is it for? For those looking for a beautiful object for daily notes, journaling, or as a gift. Its thick paper will delight fountain pen enthusiasts.

2. The Practical Pick: Set of 3 Softcover A5 Notebooks

What makes it stand out: Sold as a set of three, this bundle champions versatility and value for money. Lightweight and with a stitched binding, it's the ultimate travel-friendly companion.

Highlights:

• An economical set of 3 with varied cover designs (pastels, florals, etc.).
• Stitched binding for a lay-flat opening and optimal writing comfort.
• Cream lined paper at 80?g/m? (50 sheets per notebook).
• Feather-light format, easy to carry.

Who is it for? Perfect for students or professionals juggling multiple subjects or projects. A smart, budget-friendly solution for anyone who prioritises lightness and flexibility.

3. The Organiser's Choice: Undated A5 Planner (18-Month)

The concept: This undated planner frees you from the constraints of a traditional calendar. With its 18-month structure, you can start whenever you want! Its sturdy design and high-quality paper make it a reliable ally for long-term organisation.

Highlights:

• Undated 18-month structure for complete freedom.
• Ivory lined paper at 100?g/m? (112 sheets).
• Functional layouts with monthly and weekly views.
• Hardcover available in 10 colours to match any style.

Who is it for? For anyone who loves to plan their goals and track their projects over the long term—whether for work, studies, or personal development—without the pressure of a fixed calendar.

Not Quite Your Style?

Didn't find the perfect match in our selection? No problem, there are plenty of other options out there. Whether you prefer dot grid pages, minimalist designs, or vibrant colours, you're sure to find a notebook that's right for you.

??Explore our full collection of beautiful A5 notebooks to find the design and functionality that suits you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What's the difference between 80?g/m? and 100?g/m? paper?

80?g/m? paper is the standard: it's thinner and lighter, perfect for everyday note-taking. 100?g/m? paper is thicker, feels more premium, and is significantly more opaque. It's the preferred choice if you use a fountain pen or markers, as it prevents ink from bleeding through the page.

Why choose an A5 notebook over other sizes?

The A5 size (14.8 x 21 cm) is the ideal compromise. It offers a comfortable writing area, much larger than a pocket-sized A6, while remaining compact enough to slip into a bag—unlike the A4 format, which is often too bulky for on-the-go use.

Is a hardcover notebook always the best choice?

Not necessarily. A hardcover is synonymous with durability and protection. It's the top choice for a notebook you want to keep for a long time. On the other hand, a softcover is lighter and more flexible, a real plus for those on the move who want to lighten their bag. It all depends on your priority: sturdiness or portability.