Finding the ideal notebook can sometimes be a challenge. Whether for meeting notes, weekly planning, or creative journaling, every use has its own requirements. The A5 notebook often stands out as the perfect compromise between writing comfort and portability.
This guide is designed to give you the keys to finding the daily companion that will follow you everywhere, whether you're a professional, a student, or simply a writing enthusiast. We will review the essential criteria before presenting our top picks to help you make the right choice.
Before diving into our selection, let's go over the key points that distinguish a good notebook from the rest. Here are three essential aspects to consider.
The joy of writing depends above all on the paper. Its weight, expressed in grams per square metre (g/m? or GSM), is the main indicator of its quality. For reference, standard office paper is around 80 g/m?. For a notebook worthy of the name, 100 g/m? paper (or higher) is highly recommended. It ensures better opacity (ink doesn't show through on the other side) and a much smoother glide, whether you're using a simple ballpoint pen, a fine-liner, or a fountain pen.
The cover protects your notes, but it also defines your notebook's style. A hardcover notebook ensures better durability and a perfectly stable writing surface, even without support. It's the sensible choice for a professional notebook or a desk notebook designed to go everywhere with you.
As for the finishing touches, they make all the difference in daily use. A notebook with an elastic closure keeps everything securely in place and protects any loose papers you might slip inside. One or more ribbon bookmarks are indispensable for finding an important page in an instant.
The A5 format (14.8 x 21 cm) is undoubtedly the most versatile. Large enough for comfortable note-taking, it remains compact enough to slip into any bag. It is equally at home as a lined A5 notebook for classes as it is for journaling.
For those who make portability an absolute priority, the A6 notebook (10.5 x 14.8 cm) fits into a jacket pocket or a small handbag. Ideal for capturing ideas on the fly.
Here are a few models that caught our attention for their thoughtful design and excellent value, suited for different profiles.
Why it stands out:? This notebook combines a classic aesthetic with quality materials. Its deep green textured hardcover gives it a refined and professional look, while its cream paper is easy on the eyes and ensures excellent writing comfort.
Key features:?
Who is it for?? Professionals and students looking for a reliable, elegant, and functional desk notebook for daily use.
Why it stands out:? With its grey marble-effect fabric cover and embossed details, this notebook stands out as a truly beautiful object. It is designed for those who appreciate fine materials and want a writing medium that is out of the ordinary.
Key features:?
Who is it for?? Creatives, fans of the A5 journal, and anyone looking for a notebook that combines beauty and utility.
Why it stands out:? This A6 notebook is the champion of portability. Its PU leatherette cover is both soft and durable, and it includes a pen loop—a clever detail to ensure you're never caught unprepared.
Key features:?
Who is it for?? Nomads and active individuals who need to capture ideas, lists, and notes at any moment, without the bulk.
If these models don't quite meet your needs, or if you want to explore more colours, rulings (lined, dotted, blank...), and formats, our full collection is sure to satisfy.
Discover our complete collection of lined hardcover notebooks to find the model that's right for you.
The A5 format (14.8 x 21 cm) is the size of an A4 sheet folded in half. It is the quintessential versatile format, offering an ideal balance between writing comfort and portability. The A6 format (10.5 x 14.8 cm) is half that size. Ultra-compact, it slips into a pocket and is perfect for on-the-go note-taking.
A high GSM (like 100 g/m? paper) means the paper is thicker and more opaque. The benefits are twofold: first, ink won't bleed or ghost through the page, allowing you to use both the front and back without issue. Second, the writing experience is much smoother and more premium, a real plus if you use liquid ink pens or markers.
Absolutely. A hardcover notebook is an excellent choice for daily use, especially if you are often on the move. Its cover effectively protects the pages from folds and damage. It also serves as a stable writing surface, allowing you to take notes comfortably anywhere, even without a desk nearby.