A good notebook can make a big difference, whether it is used for journaling, a diary, planning or creative projects. The right combination of paper, size, binding and layout makes both writing more enjoyable and working creatively easier.
If you are looking for a new notebook, you can also view our selection of Notebooks and journals.
In this guide, we go through the most important things you should consider when choosing a notebook.
When looking for a notebook, you quickly discover that there are many different types. Some are perfect for journaling and creative projects, while others are better for a diary, planning, or study notes.
Several factors affect how good a notebook is to work in. Paper quality, binding, size and layout all play a part in the writing experience and how pens and markers behave on the paper.
What are you going to use your notebook for?
The first question is what the notebook is going to be used for. Different purposes often require different types of paper and layout.
Typical applications can be:
Journaling
diary
Bullet journal
planners and planning
study notes
creative projects.
If you work very creatively with pens, markers or stickers, the paper quality is extra important.
Paper quality and GSM
The thickness of the paper is one of the most important factors in a notebook. It is usually measured in GSM, which stands for grams per square metre.
The higher the GSM, the thicker the paper typically is. Thinner paper can be fine for everyday writing, while thicker paper often works better for pens with a lot of ink.
If you want to understand paper thickness better, you can read our guide to GSM stands for grams per square metre..
Many journaling enthusiasts prefer paper around 100 to 160 GSM because it provides a good balance between writing comfort and a limited risk of ink bleeding through the page.
If you want to explore notebooks by paper thickness, you can also check out these pages:
Different paper weights are suited to different types of use. 80–100 GSM is often seen in lighter notebooks for everyday writing. 120 GSM provides slightly more robust paper for daily use, while 140–160 GSM is typically better if you work a lot with gel pens, brush pens or other pens with more ink.
Avoid ghosting and bleed-through
When writing in a notebook, you can sometimes experience issues with ink.
Ghosting means that you can see a shadow of the text through the paper. Bleed-through means that the ink actually soaks through the page.
If you want to understand the difference better, you can read our guides to:
Layout in notebooks
Notebooks are available with several different types of layout. The choice depends on how you prefer to write.
The most common layout types are:
Dot grid is especially popular for bullet journals because the dots provide structure without dominating the page visually.
Hardcover or softcover
When choosing a notebook, it can also be an advantage to consider the cover.
Hardcover notebooks are sturdier and keep their shape better in a bag. Softcover books are often lighter and more flexible.
Hardback is often chosen for journaling and diary writing because the book lies flatter when you are writing.
Which pens would you like to use?
The type of pen you use also affects which notebook works best.
Pens bleed different amounts of ink. Fineliners and gel pens often work well in most notebooks, while brush pens and markers may require thicker paper.
If you want to find the right type of pen, you can read our guide to the best pens for journaling.
Size of the notebook
Notebooks come in many sizes, and the choice depends on how you use it.
Some popular sizes are:
A5 for journaling and diaries
A6 for brief notes
larger formats for creative projects.
A5 is one of the most popular sizes because it provides plenty of space for writing without taking up too much room in your bag.
Popular notebooks for journaling
If you are looking for a high-quality notebook, there are several brands that are popular among journaling enthusiasts.
Examples are:
These notebooks are known for good paper quality and solid binding, making them suitable for both writing, journaling and creative projects.
How to find the right notebook
Ultimately, the best notebook is the one that suits your way of working. Many people find their favourite by trying different paper types, sizes and layouts.
Once you have tried a few different notebooks, it becomes easier to feel which type suits your projects best.
Frequently asked questions about notebooks
Which notebook is best for journaling?
Many prefer a notebook with a dot grid and paper of around 100 to 160 GSM, as it provides a good balance between structure and paper quality.
Are hardback or paperback books best?
Hardback is often more robust, while softback can be lighter and more flexible.
Which paper is best for pens and markers?
Thicker paper normally works better for pens that release a lot of ink.
Which size notebook should you choose?
A5 is one of the most popular sizes because it works well for journaling, diary-keeping and planning.
