Joybuy Insights

Notebooks: how to choose the right size, paper and binding

A notebook can be used for taking notes in class, preparing for a meeting, keeping a diary or jotting down travel ideas. Yet when it comes to buying one, people often focus on the cover or the price tag. The result? Pages that are too thin, an impractical size, or a binding that becomes annoying after a few weeks.

The Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer’s selection is based on concrete criteria: dimensions, paper weight, type of binding and genuinely useful accessories.

Common pitfalls before buying a notebook

1. Confusing the number of pages with the number of sheets

A product advertised as having 160 pages usually contains 80 sheets printed on both sides. This distinction matters if you’re looking for a notebook to write in every day or a school exercise book that will last several months. When both figures are given, always check them.

2. Relying solely on a phrase like “thick paper”

Paper weight is a more reliable benchmark. 70 gsm paper is fine for notes taken with a ballpoint pen or pencil, while 100 gsm paper offers more comfort for extended writing and generally reduces ink show-through. That doesn’t guarantee compatibility with all felt-tip pens and fountain pens, though.

3. Overlooking the binding and portability

A hardcover notebook protects the pages better in a bag, but can be less flexible to handle. A spiral-bound notebook opens flat easily, whereas a stitched or glued binding keeps a more compact shape. For everyday use on the go, an elastic closure, a bookmark and a pen loop help prevent dog-eared pages and endless rummaging at the bottom of your bag.

The criteria to check when choosing a notebook

Size: A6, A5 or large exercise book

  • A6 notebook: approximately 10.5 × 14.8 cm. It slips easily into a pocket or small bag and is ideal for lists, quick ideas and notes taken on the move.
  • A5 notebook: approximately 14.8 × 21 cm. It offers a good balance between writing surface and portability, whether for keeping a journal, studying or taking notes at the office.
  • Large school format: an exercise book measuring 17 × 22 cm or 24 × 32 cm is better suited to exercises, homework and documents that need a large writing area.

If you write a lot or add diagrams, an A5 or larger size will be more comfortable. For occasional notes, a small notebook is easier to carry around.

Paper and page ruling

A lined exercise book encourages neat, consistent handwriting. French-ruled (Seyès) paper matches French school habits, while wide-ruled lines suit younger pupils or those who prefer more space. A 5 × 5 grid is handy for tables, plans and technical sketches.

For a writing notebook used every day, look at the paper’s weight, shade and texture. An ivory or off-white shade can reduce glare, while smooth paper helps the pen glide across the page. Compare these features on a like-for-like basis, without turning a technical specification into a promise of universal compatibility.

Cover and accessories

A hard cover is good for carrying around and for taking notes without a table. A soft cover makes the notebook lighter and can be pleasant for a travel journal. Accessories aren’t just decorative:

  • the bookmark helps you find the last page you used;
  • the elastic closure keeps the notebook shut;
  • the pen loop stops you from hunting for a separate pen;
  • an inner pocket lets you store loose sheets or tickets.

The right choice therefore depends on your habits, far more than on a simple style statement.

Our selection based on your profile

Recommended for: Budget-conscious beginners
Deli Spiral Notebook A5 4-Pack

Deli Spiral Notebook, A5, Pack of 4

Why this choice suits this profile: This pack of four A5 notebooks lets you separate subjects, projects or personal notes without having to buy them individually.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of notebooks is clearly stated: four, each with 60 sheets and 120 pages. The spiral binding makes it easy to flip through.

Main advantage and key features

A5 size, ruled pages and a pack of four for school, the office or keeping a journal.

Recommended for: Premium enthusiasts
MOLESKINE Patty Notebook

MOLESKINE Patty Notebook

Why this choice suits this profile: With its Peanuts design, hard cover and thoughtfully designed storage features, this notebook is aimed at those who want to combine the pleasure of writing with a beautiful object to give as a gift.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page specifies 100 gsm ivory ruled paper, two bookmarks, an elastic closure and a 180° lay-flat opening.

Main advantage and key features

Matte black hard cover, expandable inner pocket, stickers and acid-free FSC-certified paper according to the product page.

Recommended for: Specific uses and heavy users
Jubiluu A5 Hardcover Spiral Lined Notebook

Jubiluu A5 Hardcover Spiral Lined Notebook

Why this choice suits this profile: This A5 spiral-bound notebook is ideal for frequent note-taking, professional projects and studies that require you to regularly revisit your notes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page states a hard cover, twin-wire binding and 96 sheets of 100 gsm ivory ruled paper, with an elastic closure.

Main advantage and key features

Flexible opening, 148 × 210 mm size and paper described as limiting ink bleed-through.

Recommended for: Pupils and subject organisation
OXFORD Pack of 3 Easybook Oceanis

OXFORD Pack of 3 Easybook Oceanis

Why this choice suits this profile: The 17 × 22 cm size and French-ruled (Seyès) paper meet the common requirements of school exercise books in France.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack contains three clearly identified exercise books, each with 96 pages and French-ruled (Seyès) paper suitable for exercises and homework.

Main advantage and key features

Three exercise books, stapled binding and a size compatible with ring binders and school bags.

Looking for other options?

We’ve put together a comprehensive, real-time updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about notebooks

What size should I choose for everyday note-taking?

The A5 notebook suits most uses: classes, meetings, keeping a journal and personal organisation. The A6 size is easier to carry, but offers less space for tables or longer pieces of writing.

Is 100 gsm paper necessary?

Not always. It’s worth considering if you write regularly, use a liquid ink pen or want to reduce show-through. For quick lists in pencil or ballpoint, a lighter paper may be sufficient.

How long can a notebook last?

The lifespan depends on the number of pages used, how often you write and the conditions it’s carried in. A hard cover, suitable binding and storing it away from moisture can help limit wear and tear. For heavy use, focus on comparing the number of sheets, the strength of the binding and how easily it opens flat.