Joybuy Insights

Notebook or notepad: how to choose the right format, paper and binding

A notebook or notepad can accompany you to classes, help you prepare for a meeting, organise a personal journal or provide space for sketches. However, an unsuitable choice quickly becomes apparent: pages that are too thin, a format that is awkward to slip into a bag or a cover that becomes misshapen after a few weeks.

Before you let the design win you over, it is therefore worth checking the features that really matter. Here are the key criteria to consider, followed by a selection designed for different uses in France.

Common pitfalls before buying

1. Choosing based on design alone

An attractive cover catches the eye, but says nothing about the quality of the paper or the strength of the binding. A hardback cover offers better protection for the pages, while a softcover is generally lighter and less bulky. The right choice mainly depends on how you carry it and how often you use it.

2. Confusing the number of pages with the amount of paper

Product descriptions sometimes state the number of pages and sometimes the number of sheets. A sheet has two sides, whereas a page generally refers to a single usable side. This distinction matters when comparing two notebooks on an equivalent basis.

3. Underestimating pen compatibility

Thin paper may be perfectly suitable for a pencil or ballpoint pen, but allow more ink from a fountain pen or felt-tip pen to show through on the reverse. For comfortable everyday writing, the paper’s weight, texture and shade matter far more than simple claims such as “premium” or “superior quality”.

Technical criteria to check

Format: A5, A4 or large notebook

  • A5 notebook — approximately 14.8 × 21 cm : easy to carry, it is suitable for journalling, lists, meetings and personal notes.
  • A4 notebook — approximately 21 × 29.7 cm : better suited to lessons, diagrams, documents and extensive note-taking.
  • Intermediate format — such as 21 × 31.8 cm : practical for tables, plans and large documents, without exactly matching the A4 format.

For a handbag or student backpack, A5 is a good compromise. At the office, in the classroom or when drawing, a larger format provides more space.

Paper weight and type

80 g/m² paper is generally suitable for taking notes with a pencil or standard pen. At 100 g/m², paper is denser and usually allows less ink to show through on the reverse, although this does not guarantee compatibility with every marker.

For drawing, 120 g/m² paper is better able to withstand repeated corrections and dry techniques. Clairefontaine paper is often distinguished by its very smooth surface, while fine-grain paper provides more texture for pencil, pastel or charcoal. Also look for acid-free, pH-neutral or PEFC/FSC certification claims : these refer to specific characteristics of the paper and its sourcing.

Binding and lay-flat opening

  • Spiral-bound notebook : the pages turn easily and the notebook can lie completely flat. This is a real advantage for lessons, sketches and continuous note-taking.
  • Sewn binding : it often provides a pleasant opening while retaining a simple, understated look.
  • Staple-bound notebook : lightweight and affordable, it is mainly suitable for school exercise books and notepads.
  • Micro-perforated sheets : these allow you to tear out a page neatly when you need to hand over a document.

An elastic closure, bookmark or inner pocket can be useful, but these small accessories cannot make up for binding that is unsuitable for the intended use.

Our selection by user profile

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
Jubiluu A5 Softcover 3-Pack Stitch Notebook

Jubiluu A5 Softcover 3-Pack Stitch Notebook

Why this choice suits this profile : This pack of three A5 notebooks lets you keep classwork, work and personal notes separate without having to make multiple purchases.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack size and price are clearly stated, with 50 sheets of 80 g/m² lined paper per notebook.

Main benefit and key features

Pack of three notebooks, sewn binding and advertised lay-flat opening.

Recommended for : Premium notebook enthusiasts
MOLESKINE Casa Batlló Large Ruled Notebook

MOLESKINE Casa Batlló Large Ruled Notebook

Why this choice suits this profile : This large lined notebook combines a hardback cover inspired by Casa Batlló with thoughtful details for journalling and professional writing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify 100 g/m² ivory lined paper, an elastic closure, a bookmark and an inner pocket.

Main benefit and key features

Acid-free paper, hardback cover and advertised 180° lay-flat opening.

Recommended for : Specific uses and intensive users
CLAIREFONTAINE Zap Book R.I. A4

CLAIREFONTAINE Zap Book R.I. A4

Why this choice suits this profile : With its A4 format and 160 sheets, this notebook is suitable for large volumes of notes, rough work and everyday drawing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the number of sheets, the 80 g/m² paper weight and the spiral binding along the long edge.

Main benefit and key features

100% recycled, acid-free and pH-neutral paper, with a surface advertised as flat.

Recommended for : Artists and drawing enthusiasts
Clairefontaine Cray'ON R.I. Pad A4

Clairefontaine Cray'ON R.I. Pad A4

Why this choice suits this profile : This A4 drawing pad is designed for dry techniques, sketches, charcoal, pastels and coloured pencils.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details mention 120 g/m² acid-free paper, with one lightly textured side and one smooth side.

Main benefit and key features

Surface designed for repeated corrections and advertised PEFC certification.

Looking for more options ?

We have brought together a complete selection, updated in real time, of products that meet these demanding criteria as well as European safety regulations.

How long can you expect a notebook to last ?

A notebook’s lifespan depends on the paper weight, binding, storage conditions and frequency of use. A hardback cover protects the pages better in a bag, while a spiral binding withstands repeated handling without putting strain on the notebook’s spine. Keep it away from moisture and heat, particularly if the cover is printed or if some accessories are made from paper or fabric.

Notebook and notepad FAQ

Which format should you choose for school and the office ?

A5 is suitable for short notes, meetings and everyday carrying. For lessons, tables, mind maps and documents that require plenty of writing space, an A4 notebook or a format close to A4 will be more comfortable.

What paper weight should you choose for writing with a fountain pen ?

At 100 g/m², paper is generally denser than 70 or 80 g/m² paper. It is still best to check the manufacturer’s information and choose paper that is compatible with the ink you use. For drawing, 120 g/m² is better suited to dry techniques and repeated corrections.

Is a lined or blank notebook better for journalling ?

A lined notebook structures your writing and makes it easier to lay out paragraphs. A blank notebook offers more freedom to combine text, sketches, collages and diagrams. When giving a notebook as a gift, it therefore depends on the recipient’s habits : organised writing, drawing or creative journalling.