Whether you're jotting down a brilliant idea, organising a major project, or simply keeping a journal, choosing the right notebook is essential. It's a highly personal decision. But with an overwhelming variety of sizes, paper types, and covers, how do you navigate the options? Our guide is here to help you make sense of it all and find the perfect paper companion to carry with you every day.
How to Choose the Right Notebook
Before diving into our selection, let's review the key criteria for making the right choice.
1. Size: A Matter of Portability and Space
The size of your notebook directly impacts how you'll use it.
- Pocket Size (A6): Compact and lightweight, it slips easily into any bag or pocket. It's the ideal companion for capturing ideas on the fly or managing to-do lists.
- A5 Size: The perfect all-rounder. It's large enough for comfortable note-taking in meetings or classes, yet still compact enough to fit in a backpack or a large handbag.
- Large Formats (A4 or 24x32 cm): These offer a generous writing surface, perfect for creative projects, sketching, or brainstorming sessions that require more space.
2. Cover and Features: Durability and Practicality
The cover protects your notes. A hardcover notebook offers superior durability and a stable writing surface, even without a desk. Conversely, a softcover will be lighter and more flexible.
Also, consider the details that make all the difference: a notebook with an elastic closure to keep everything secure, and one or more ribbon bookmarks to find your place at a glance.
3. The Paper: The Soul of the Notebook
The quality of the paper defines the writing experience.
- Paper Weight (GSM): A 70-80 g/m? paper is sufficient for ballpoint pens. For fountain pens or markers, choose a thicker paper of 90 g/m? or more to prevent ink from bleeding through the page.
- Page Style: A lined notebook is a classic choice for writing or keeping a personal diary. Dotted pages are highly popular for bullet journaling, providing structure with creative freedom. Finally, blank pages are the ideal canvas for drawing and sketching.
Our Recommended Notebooks
We've reviewed several models to bring you a selection that meets every need, whether you're a student, professional, or creative.
1. CLAIREFONTAINE Koverbook: The Rugged All-in-One
CLAIREFONTAINE Koverbook Stapled Notebook with Transparent Polypro Cover, Blue, 24 x 32 cm
- Why it stands out: Much more than a simple notebook, the Koverbook is an ingenious 2-in-1 system. It features an integrated, ultra-durable transparent polypropylene cover with two large flaps that double as bookmarks and pockets for loose papers.
- Advantages:
- 2-in-1 Design: No need to buy a separate cover.
- Premium Paper: Its 96 pages of Clairefontaine 90 g/m? brushed vellum paper, PEFC certified and made in France, offer unparalleled writing smoothness.
- Unbeatable Durability: The sturdy cover effectively protects the pages from daily wear and tear.
- Who is it for?: Students and professionals looking for a durable, well-designed solution for intensive use. Its large 24 x 32 cm size is ideal for those who need plenty of space for their ideas.
2. MOLESKINE Classic Pocket Notebook: The Timeless Icon
MOLESKINE Classic Pocket Notebook - Sapphire Blue, Ruled, Hard Cover
- Why it stands out: The Moleskine notebook is instantly recognizable for its clean, functional design. Its hard cover with rounded corners, elastic closure, and ribbon bookmark make it a reliable and elegant classic.
- Advantages:
- Lies Flat: It opens a full 180° for optimal writing comfort.
- Thoughtful Details: It includes an expandable inner pocket in the back, perfect for business cards or receipts.
- Quality Paper: The ivory-coloured 70 g/m? paper is acid-free and FSC certified, ensuring sustainable forest management.
- Who is it for?: Creatives, professionals, and journaling enthusiasts who want an iconic, durable, and practical notebook for daily use.
3. Jubiluu A6 Pocket Notebook: The Compact and Functional Choice
Jubiluu A6 Premium Pocket Notebook, PU Hardcover, Lined Pages - Sky Blue
- Why it stands out: This A6 notebook combines maximum portability with high-end finishes. Its PU leatherette cover adds a touch of elegance, while its built-in accessories make it incredibly practical.
- Advantages:
- Fully Equipped: It comes with a ribbon bookmark, an elastic closure, and even a pen loop.
- Thick Paper: Its 80 sheets (160 pages) are made of 100 g/m? paper, perfect for preventing ink from bleeding or ghosting.
- Excellent Value: It offers premium features in a compact format at a very accessible price point.
- Who is it for?: For people on the go who need a reliable and stylish notebook for jotting down ideas, making lists, or keeping a travel journal.
Other Options to Explore
Not convinced by the models in our selection? Looking for a specific colour or style? Many other possibilities await you.
? Explore our collection of pastel blue notebooks to discover more styles and sizes.
Your Questions, Our Answers (FAQ)
1. What paper weight should I choose for my notebook?
It all depends on your writing tools. A paper weight of 70 to 80 g/m? is sufficient for a ballpoint pen or pencil. If you're a fan of fountain pens, fine-liners, or highlighters, opt for a weight of 90 g/m? or more (like in the Koverbook or Jubiluu notebook) to minimise ghosting and prevent ink from bleeding.
2. How do I start a bullet journal?
The bullet journal (or BuJo) is a 100% customisable organisational method. To start, you need a notebook (dotted ones are often recommended, but a lined or blank notebook works just as well). Then, define your key sections: an index to find your pages, a "future log" for upcoming events, a "monthly log" for the current month, and "daily logs" for your daily tasks. The great advantage is that you can adapt it entirely to your needs.
3. A5 vs A6 Notebook: What's the size difference?
An A6 notebook measures 10.5 x 14.8 cm, about the size of a postcard. It's the ultimate pocket size. An A5 notebook, on the other hand, measures 14.8 x 21 cm (twice the size of an A6). It offers much better writing comfort while remaining very easy to carry.
