What makes a notebook good for bullet journaling
A bullet journal is used daily, filled with a mix of lists, trackers and sometimes drawings, so the notebook needs to be durable, flat when open and friendly to your pens. Big review pages list dozens of notebooks, which can be overwhelming. It is easier to decide which specifications matter to you, then shortlist a few options. If you are still at the stage of deciding what a bullet journal is, start with our overview of the best bullet journal and what to look for.
Specs that matter
Paper weight
Paper weight is given in gsm (see our paper weight explained guide for how gsm relates to pound ratings). Roughly speaking, around 80 to 100gsm is common in classic journals, and about 120 to 160gsm is common in notebooks marketed for markers and art. Heavier paper tends to show less ghosting, but weight is not the only factor. Coating, fibre and ink type all affect how a pen behaves, so two notebooks with the same gsm can feel quite different.
Paper colour and finish
Cream or ivory paper is easy on the eyes and suits fountain pens, but it slightly changes how colours look. Bright white paper makes colours look more vivid, which many people prefer for decorated spreads. Smooth paper is good for fine tips, while a little tooth helps pencil and some markers.
Page count and numbering
A notebook of around 200 pages can last many months, depending on how detailed your daily pages are. Pre-numbered pages and an index are convenient for the method. If your notebook has neither, plan time to number pages yourself, or use a notebook that leaves them blank deliberately.
Binding and cover
Look for thread-bound or otherwise lay-flat binding if you write near the gutter. Hardcovers resist bending in a bag. Elastic closures, ribbons and a back pocket are small touches that are useful in daily use.
Notebooks worth considering, by use case
Spec sheets and prices change between editions and sellers, so check the current listing before you buy. These categories reflect how reviewers commonly group options.
The classic default
Leuchtturm1917 is the best-known name here, with numbered pages, an index, ribbons and a back pocket, and an edition developed with Ryder Carroll. Earlier editions had relatively thin paper that showed ghosting with some pens, and later editions were described as improved, so check which version you are buying.
Thick paper for markers and brush pens
Archer & Olive, Scribbles That Matter and similar brands offer heavier paper, often around 160gsm, and bright white pages. These are popular with people who letter, colour or use wet markers. Heavier paper can make the notebook bulkier for the same number of pages.
Fountain-pen friendly
Rhodia and Midori MD notebooks are often recommended for fountain-pen users because of their smooth, ink-friendly paper. Our guide to the best paper for fountain pen writing explains what makes paper behave well with liquid ink. They typically have fewer pages or less built-in structure, so you may need to number pages yourself.
Budget options
Reviewers often mention affordable dot-grid notebooks from mainstream stationery brands, such as Peter Pauper Press or Paperage. They are a sensible way to try the method without much outlay. The trade-off can be more ghosting with wetter pens.
Minimalist blank-slate notebooks
Some notebooks have no printed index or page numbers at all. These suit people who want a flexible, quiet layout and do not mind building their own structure.
How to test a notebook before committing
- Open to a back page or the inside of the cover.
- Draw a line, a filled block and a few words with each pen you use. Press lightly and then more firmly.
- Check the reverse side for ghosting and the page after for bleed.
- Let one sample dry, then wipe it with a finger to check smudging.
- If you use highlighters, test one of those too.
Your pen choice affects the result as much as the paper. See our guide to the best pen for bujo for pairing ideas.
Dot grid vs other layouts
Dot grid is the usual default for bullet journals. Lined pages suit mostly text, and squared grid suits trackers and charts. Blank pages are better for sketching. If you plan to decorate seasonal spreads, a dot grid gives enough guidance without getting in the way, as you may see when planning February bullet journal ideas.
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying a very large or heavy notebook you will not carry.
- Choosing thin paper then switching to markers.
- Paying for a premium notebook before you know that you will keep the habit.
- Expecting any notebook to be completely free of ghosting with every pen.
Choosing in a minute
If you use fineliners and gel pens, a mid-weight dot-grid notebook with numbered pages is a safe choice. If you use markers or brush pens, look for thicker paper. If you use fountain pens, test the paper first. If you are unsure, buy a single moderately priced A5 dot-grid notebook and use it for a few months before upgrading.