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The A5 notebook, measuring approximately 148 × 210 mm, lends itself to a wide range of uses: lecture notes, meetings, remote work, journaling, daily to-do lists or sketching. Easy to slip into a bag, it offers more space than a pocket notebook without becoming bulky.
But a pretty design alone isn't enough to make the right choice. An attractive cover can hide paper that's too thin, an impractical binding or a limited number of pages. Here are the criteria to consider before placing your order, followed by a selection of models suited to different needs.
A product advertised as having 80 sheets typically contains 160 pages, since each sheet has two sides. It's worth keeping this difference in mind when comparing an A5 notebook, a student exercise book or a pack of A5 notebooks.
Always take the time to check:
A pack of four 60-sheet exercise books doesn't offer the same volume as a 192-page notebook, even if both products are in A5 format.
The grammage refers to the weight of the paper per square metre. 70 gsm paper works perfectly well for notes taken with a ballpoint pen or pencil, but some felt-tip pens are more likely to show through. With 80 gsm, you get a common compromise for school, the office or an A5 diary. 100 gsm provides a denser surface, pleasant with light highlighters and certain liquid-ink pens.
However, bear in mind that a high grammage alone doesn't guarantee no show-through. The result also depends on the ink used, the nib width and the pressure applied to the paper.
Spiral binding allows you to turn pages quickly and lay the notebook completely flat. It's particularly practical for classes, lists and jotting down notes on the go. On the downside, it can take up more room in a narrow bag.
A stitched or glued binding gives a more classic look. A hard cover protects the pages better inside a bag and is ideal for a work notebook or as a gift. Lighter, a soft cover makes it easier to carry around, especially if you're using several notebooks at once.
For classes and meetings, a lined A5 notebook helps keep your handwriting neat and your notes easy to read later. For an A5 diary, it all depends on how much freedom you want. Lined pages remain ideal for writing, while blank pages are better suited to collages, diagrams and free compositions.
For drawing, a standard notebook isn't always up to the job. The CLAIREFONTAINE Paint'ON A5 pad, with 250 gsm paper, is designed for several dry and wet techniques. Its different grain textures cater to various needs, although heavily loaded wet techniques may require fixing or an appropriate support.
The A5 format is standardised at around 14.8 × 21 cm. It fits into a school bag, a work briefcase or sits easily on a desk at home. To choose the right capacity, start with how you'll use it:
An undated 18-month planner lets you start at any time, without leaving blank pages before the purchase date. It can also serve as an A5 planner for work, studies or family organisation.
An elastic closure stops the notebook from opening in your bag. A ribbon bookmark lets you quickly find a particular note or week. These accessories are practical, but they also add a few elements that could be affected by moisture or rough handling.
Why this choice suits this profile: Four separate notebooks let you organise school subjects, personal lists or work projects without having to buy multiple different references.
The number of sheets and pages is stated for each notebook, making it easy to compare with a student exercise book sold individually.
A5 format, lined pages, spiral binding and a pack of four notebooks with 70 gsm paper.
Why this choice suits this profile: Its decorated hard cover, cream lined paper and accessories make it a pleasant everyday companion or a lovely notebook to give as a gift.
The specifications detail the format, 96 sheets, 100 gsm paper, ribbon bookmark and elastic closure.
192 pages, cream offset 100 gsm paper, hard cover, elastic closure and integrated bookmark.
Why this choice suits this profile: Freelancers, remote workers and students can start organising whenever they like, then switch between monthly views, weekly views and note pages.
The undated design avoids wasting pages when the planner is bought or picked up partway through the year.
224 pages, lined 100 gsm paper, hard cover, elastic closure, bookmark and monthly and weekly sections.
Why this choice suits this profile: This pad is aimed at those looking for a thick surface for pencil, felt-tip pen, ink, gouache or acrylic.
The 250 gsm weight is clearly stated and distinguishes this pad from a writing notebook at 70 or 80 gsm.
20 cellulose sheets, two grain textures and stated compatibility with several dry and wet media.
We've put together a comprehensive, real-time updated selection of products that meet these selection criteria and comply with European safety regulations.
The term "A5 notebook" can refer to models with very different bindings and covers. A spiral A5 exercise book is generally designed to lie flat and allow you to turn pages quickly. The choice should therefore depend less on the product name and more on its binding, capacity and intended use.
For everyday note-taking, 70 to 80 gsm is sufficient with a ballpoint pen or pencil. If you use felt-tip pens, highlighters or a more fluid ink, 100 gsm paper will offer a more comfortable surface. For drawing and certain wet techniques, it's best to look at 250 gsm pads.
Store it in a dry place, avoid forcing the spiral and don't bend the cover excessively. For decorated hardcover models, a dry cloth is usually enough for maintenance. Notebooks with an elastic closure or ribbon should be kept away from moisture and heat sources.