Joybuy Insights

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

A notebook can help you organise your workday, keep up with your studies, write a diary or preserve travel sketches. Yet some purchases quickly disappoint: pages that are too thin, an impractical size or a binding that gets in the way of writing. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it's better to compare concrete features rather than relying solely on the cover or marketing promises.

Common pitfalls before buying a notebook

1. Confusing the number of pages with the actual capacity

A notebook with a high page count isn't necessarily the most practical. First, check whether it's pages or sheets: one sheet usually contains two pages. The paper's density also matters. With a low grammage, ink is likely to show through, especially with a fountain pen or felt-tip.

2. Choosing a binding purely for its looks

A stitched or glued binding can give a neat finish, whereas a spiral notebook often opens more easily and lies flat. Whether you're taking notes at a desk, in a lecture hall or on public transport, ease of use sometimes matters more than design.

3. Underestimating the size

An A6 notebook slips easily into a pocket or small bag, but the writing space is limited. Conversely, an A5 notebook is better suited for meeting notes, detailed lists and journaling, while still being easy to carry. A4 size offers a comfortable surface for diagrams and drawing, but it naturally takes up more room.

The essential criteria for choosing a notebook

Size according to your use

  • A6: quick notes, lists, ideas to jot down on the go, or a compact diary.
  • A5: studies, work, everyday writing, an undated planner and a travel journal.
  • A4: drawing, diagrams, creative projects and schoolwork that needs plenty of space.
  • 17 × 22 cm or 24 × 32 cm: sizes suited to exercise books, homework and documents to keep.

Also think about the weight and the space available in your bag. A hard cover protects the pages better, but it can make the notebook heavier compared to a soft cover model.

Paper and its grammage

Grammage refers to the weight of the paper per square metre. It alone doesn't predict writing comfort, but it provides a useful benchmark:

  • 70 to 80 g/m²: suitable for pencil, ballpoint pen and everyday note-taking.
  • 90 to 100 g/m²: a comfortable compromise for writing, light drawing and some felt-tips.
  • 200 g/m²: more intended for watercolour and wet techniques, subject to checking the manufacturer's recommendations.

A ruled notebook works well for text and lessons, while squared paper makes it easier to create tables, plans and diagrams. For a sketchbook, focus on the texture, grammage and compatibility with the media you use. Even thick paper isn't necessarily designed for acrylic or watercolour.

The cover and accessories

A hard cover withstands repeated handling better and protects the pages inside a bag. A soft cover prioritises lightness. Accessories can also make a difference: an elastic closure, a ribbon bookmark, a pen loop or an inner pocket.

For professional use or a travel journal, a 180° flat opening makes writing more comfortable and consistent. For an exercise book, flaps or pockets let you keep loose sheets without needing a separate folder.

Our selection by profile

Recommended for: Beginners on a budget
Jubiluu A6 Premium PU Hardcover Pocket Notebook

Jubiluu A6 Premium PU Hardcover Pocket Notebook

Why this choice suits this profile: Its A6 size is ideal for a first notebook, for lists or for notes taken on the go and in everyday life.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its 80 sheets of 100 g/m² offset paper provide a clear benchmark, while the hard cover effectively protects the contents.

Main advantage and key features

Ribbon bookmark, elastic closure, pen loop and cream ruled pages.

Recommended for: Premium enthusiasts
MOLESKINE Patty Notebook

Moleskine Patty Notebook

Why this choice suits this profile: This Moleskine notebook combines a black cover featuring a Peanuts design with practical details for writing, journaling or collecting.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 100 g/m² ivory ruled paper, two ribbons and flat opening minimise compromises between aesthetics and ease of use.

Main advantage and key features

Expandable pocket, elastic closure, stickers and acid-free paper from FSC certified sources according to the product sheet.

Recommended for: Specific uses and heavy users
Deli Finenolo Sketchbook A4

Deli Finenolo A4 Top-Wire Bound Sketchbook

Why this choice suits this profile: Its large format is aimed at students, artists and anyone who alternates between sketches, notes and diagrams.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its 60 white A4 sheets and metal binding make it easy to use both sides and open flat.

Main advantage and key features

White paper suitable for pencil, charcoal, coloured pencil and pen; the sheet advises against very wet media.

Recommended for: Flexible planning and daily organisation
Jubiluu A5 Undated Hardcover 18-Month Planner

Jubiluu A5 Undated 18-Month Hardcover Planner

Why this choice suits this profile: This undated A5 planner lets you start at any time and structure your work, studies or personal projects.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The undated monthly and weekly pages avoid wasting pages when the planner isn't used every week.

Main advantage and key features

224 pages, 100 g/m² offset paper, hard cover, ribbon bookmark and elastic closure.

Looking for other options?

We've put together a comprehensive, real-time selection of products that meet these exacting criteria as well as European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about notebooks

Which size should I choose for everyday note-taking?

A5 size offers a particularly practical compromise between writing surface and portability. An A6 is suitable for brief notes and lists, while an A4 is more comfortable for drawings, tables and diagrams.

Which binding lasts the longest?

The lifespan depends on the quality of construction and how it's used. A hard cover protects the notebook better, a stitched binding often encourages flat opening, and a spiral binding makes it easier to turn pages. Also check that the spiral isn't likely to become misshapen in your bag.

Is 100 g/m² paper suitable for all pens?

100 g/m² paper is generally suitable for everyday writing and some felt-tips, but the result varies depending on the type of ink. With a very wet fountain pen, test a page before committing to heavy use. For watercolour, choose a sketchbook specifically designed for wet techniques.