Choosing the perfect notebook can be overwhelming with so many sizes and options. But have no fear, dear reader! This handy guide breaks down the most popular notebook dimensions to match your needs. Whether you're an artist, writer, student or anyone who relies on the versatile notebook, read on.
I'll reveal the sizes that best fit your pursuit - from compact pockets to expansive landscapes. Discover which dimensions suit diary writing or drafting projects. Or simply find that Goldilocks "just right" notebook to spark joy in your daily scribblings.
What will you use your new notebook for? Sketching cartoons? Logging travel journals? Drafting short stories? Let your imagination guide you to the ideal notebook size for your creative adventures!
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right notebook size is key. Here's the 411:
- Card Book (2.16" x 3.54"): Tiny but mighty for jotting quick notes.
- Passport (3.54" x 4.92"): Compact travel journaling companion.
- Pocket (3.5" x 5.5"): Fits in your pocket, perfect for daily to-do lists and doodles.
- A6 (4.13" x 5.83"): Journaling on-the-go just got easier.
- B6 (5.03" x 7.1"): A versatile all-rounder for notes, sketches, and writing.
- A5 (5.7" x 8.26"): The crowd favorite for everyday note-taking and scribing.
- B5 (7.48" x 9.84"): Composition book vibes for all your creative writing projects.
- A4 (8.3" x 11.7"): The office standard for when you mean business.
Check out our article for details on popular leather notebooks from Moleskine, Leuchtturm1917, Midori, and more — complete with a handy size chart.
The Rundown
NOTEBOOK SIZES COMPARISON
People use different notebook sizes for several purposes. Travelers' notebook sizes are different from field notes sizes. Additionally, standard journal sizes are different from bullet journal notebook sizes. Spiral notebook sizes are usually used based on the standard A- series and Japanese notebook sizes. If you intend to purchase the most appropriate notebook type, this notebook sizes comparison is best for you.
Paper size dictates the notebook size. However, the notebook sizes chart differs from one country to another. For instance, the US notebook size follows the ANSI standard notebook sizes. The US notebook paper sizes are mostly designed in the "letter" and "ledger" or "tablet" sizes. There are other notebook paper dimensions used in other countries. The notebook sizes A4, A5, and A6 are used in notebooks and planners.
Apart from the US notebook sizes, there are also the Japanese notebook sizes. The B5 notebook size is the most produced in Japan. Some Japanese manufacturers, such as Apica Co., Limited, have begun exporting notebooks to other countries. Apica notebook sizes range from the B5 size to pocket notebook sizes. Popular brands like Rhodia, Tul, Archer and Olive, and Moleskine also have different notebook sizes.
Here are some of the common notebook sizes picked from the notebook sizes chart.
OUR TOP COLLECTIONS
Check out our popular post: Notebook vs Journal - What's the Difference?
Card Book Is The Most Portable Notebook
Card book notebooks are one of the small notebook sizes. It measures 55 × 90 mm (2.16 × 3.54 in). They are perfect for pockets, pen cases, and purses. These pocket notebook sizes are easy to carry about. It is handy and can be used to take down notes before transferring them to larger notebooks. You can use the card book for making quick lists or jotting simple notes.
B7 (Passport) is the General Size of a Passport
B7 paper-sized notebooks are usually called "passport notebooks." Their standard size in millimeters is 90 × 125 mm, and the notebook sizes in inches are around 3.54 × 4.92 inches.
In its passport notebook size, you can carry it around in the pockets of shirts or pants. You can also use your passport notebook as a diary or a travel journal.
Pocket Notebook Does Not Have an American Or International Standard Size
At 90 × 140 mm (3.5 × 5.5 in), the pocket notebook is the size of a 3 × 5 flashcard. Pocket notebook sizes have become increasingly popular with manufacturers. It results from the demand for a pocket-sized notebook with more space than the standard passport notebook.
The notebook size is perfect for taking down daily to-do lists or making quick sketches. Although the pocket notebook is too large for a shirt pocket, it fits comfortably in a pant or suit jacket pocket.
A6 Notebook Is the Best Size for Journaling
Journal sizes give you enough space to write, and you can keep it easily.
Business owners can use it to take meeting notes, create to-do lists, and keep track of appointments. In millimeters, the A6 notebook size is 105 × 148 mm.
B6 Is the Perfect Size for A Wide Range of Writing Tasks
The B6 notebook size is the most suitable size for your writing activity. The notebook size in inches is 5.03 × 7.1 and in millimeters is 128 × 182 mm.
You can use it to keep appointments, take notes at work, record class notes, sketch designs, and write down thoughts. Asides from this, it fits perfectly into the pocket of your pants.
A5 Notebook Is Very Good for Your Everyday Use
A5 notebook size can serve the same purposes as your B6 notebook. You can easily use the A5 notebook size as a school or work notebook.
It can also be used for writing short stories or step-by-step written projects, including planning and organizing. You can use it to take notes or jot down ideas from research. Notebook sizes for A5 are 145 × 210 mm and 5.70 × 8.26 inches.
More about a5 notebook size
Portability:
However, perhaps one of the most outstanding features of the A5 notebook, and one that outweighs all the others, is its size. With its tiny dimensions of 5.8 inches by 8.3 inches (148mm x 210mm), the A5 notebook is ridiculously portable and easy to carry with you. It fits in your bag, and it will even fit in your jacket pocket. Carry one around with you, and it will be close at hand for your next brilliant idea, the next scribble of an absorbing thought, or the next thing you want to sketch while you’re sitting down at the coffee shop.
Variety of Formats:
There are A5 notebooks in so many formats! If you want letter-size pages, you’ve got them. While many prefer lined pages for writing, you can also get grid pages, blank pages, dot-grid pages, or pages set up for writing in commonly used foreign languages. If you like high-quality, smooth, thin paper, Tomoe River Notebooks are pretty low-priced and quite popular. If you like leather, there are beautiful leather-bound A5 notebooks. If you want more paper for your writing, you’ll find 400-page versions. If you like your notebook to feel substantial in your hands, you might go for a top-bound pad or a slim stitch-bound book.
Practicality:
The second virtue of A5 notebooks is their versatility. What kind of activities can you do in an A5 notebook? Virtually anything: journaling, note-taking, sketching, planning tasks, and a lot more. Granted, A5 pages are half the layouts, and worksheets that require more space won’t be intimidating or cramped. Whether you’re a university student or a business professional, an artist or an amateur, an employee or a freelancer – an A5 notebook can become a powerful instrument to help you accomplish your tasks.
Comparison to Other Sizes:
Presently, A5 notebooks stand out as a rule of thumb among the other common sizes because they seem to occupy the golden mean. A5 notebooks appear slightly larger than B6 but much smaller than A4. This configuration offers the benefit of sufficient space for writing without compromising portability. Given these options, A5 notebooks are a preferred choice among notebook users because they provide a size that is just right. If you find B6 notebooks to be too small and A4 notebooks too big, then A5 is likely for you.
Popular Usage:
Whether used in school, the office, or for personal enjoyment, A5 notebooks are a popular item found everywhere. Students enjoy carrying around an A5 notebook during all their classes. At the office, individuals use A5 notebooks during meetings or brainstorming sessions with colleagues. A5 notebooks also make great journals for people to express their personal opinions and thoughts. You can even use the family fireplace for journaling or writing poems. The reason for the popularity of the A5 notebook is that it is easy to carry and easy to enjoy.
A5 size VS A6 size
A5 VS A6
A5 size:
- Dimensions: 148 mm × 210 mm (5.8 in × 8.3 in)
- Half the size of an A4 sheet
- Suitable for medium-sized notebooks, planners, and journals
- Provides a good balance between portability and writing space
A6 size:
- Dimensions: 105 mm × 148 mm (4.1 in × 5.8 in)
- Half the size of an A5 sheet or one-quarter the size of an A4 sheet
- Compact and highly portable
- Ideal for pocket notebooks, small notepads, and mini journals
- Writing space is more limited compared to A5
In conclusion, A5 notebooks may bring much handwriting space, available to take with you; A6 notebooks are much smaller in size and fit within your backpack easily if you like to to travel and explore. If you don't mind carrying a little heavier in your bag and need lots of notes in one place, go for A5 notebooks else the A6 would be a good choice.
B5 (Composition) Notebook Is the Perfect Book for Creative Writers
Standard B5 size is 7.48 × 9.84 inches, measuring 190 × 250 mm in millimeters.
This composition notebook size has lots of blank spaces. You can utilize it to create illustrated journals or essays and class assignments.
A4 Notebook Size Is Made for Official Purposes
A4 paper size is used internationally for official purposes. Its dimensions are 210 × 297 mm (8.3 × 11.7 in).
You can write in it without any hassle. The A4 notebooks are suitable for note-taking in the office.
Notebook Size Table
| Format | Size, in | Size, cm |
| Extra Small | 2.5 x 4.1 | 6,5 x 10,5 |
| Moleskine Pocket (A6) | 3.5 x 5.5 | 9 x 14 |
| Moleskine Large (A5) | 5 x 8.25 | 13 x 21 |
| Moleskine Extra Large | 7.5 x 10 | 19 x 25 |
| Field Notes Original | 3.5 x 5.5 | 9 x 14 |
| Field Notes Pitch | 4.75 x 7.5 | 12 x 19 |
| Leuhtturm 1917 A6 | 3.5 x 6 | 9 x 15 |
| Leuhtturm 1917 A5 | 5.71 x 8.27 | 14,5 x 21 |
| Padfolio Basics Pad | 5 x 8 | 13 x 20 |
| Padfolio Basics Pad | 8.5 x 11.75 | 22 x 30 |
LEATHER JOURNAL REVIEWS
Milwaukee Leather Mini Journal with Pen
JOURNAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Size (inch): 2.5x4.1
Size (cm): 6.5x10.5
Number of pages: 56
Refillable: Yes
Paper type: Lined
Leather: Vegetable tanned
This mini journal is only suitable for card book notebooks. Writers and businesspeople who constantly need to capture instant thoughts and ideas will find it very handy. The leather journal comes with a pen slot and paper insert. It also comes from cowhide.
Milwaukee Pocket Leather Journal - Chestnut
JOURNAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Size (inch): 3.5x5.5
Size (cm): 9x14
Number of pages: 64
Refillable: Yes
Paper type: Lined
Leather: Vegetable tanned
Besides being completely handcrafted, this journal is made from high-quality Milwaukee leather. It has a pocket notebook size design. This journal features a soft but durable texture that is built to last. You can get your Milwaukee Pocket Leather Journal in a rich chestnut color.
Milwaukee Large Leather Journal-Black
JOURNAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Size (inch): 5x8.25
Size (cm): 13x21
Number of pages: 80
Refillable: Yes
Paper type: Lined
Leather: Vegetable tanned
This journal can be used by students, writers, and travelers. You can get it in the in the pocket size. The large and extra-large sizes are also available. With the Midori traveler's notebook inserts, you refill the journal. The traveler's notebook sizes are standard at 8.25 x 4.33 inches. The journal is made from high-quality leather made to last for years.
Milwaukee Extra Large Leather Journal - Green
Size (inch): 7.5x10
Size (cm): 19x25
Number of pages: 120
Refillable: Yes
Paper type: Lined
Leather: Vegetable tanned
This journal is available in three sizes to cater to all your notebook needs. People with style would find it helpful. Additionally, the journal is made with high-quality leather. One paper insert is available that can be refilled once it runs out. An elastic band secures the notebook.
Leather Journal Leuchtturm1917 - Natural
Size (inch): 5.71x8.27
Size (cm): 14.5x21
Number of pages: 249
Refillable: Yes
Paper type: Lined
Leather: Vegetable tanned
This journal with an elegant leather cover is made to last for years. A paper is included in the journal that comes in hardcover and softcover. It is used for A5 and A6 notebook sizes. Travelers, students, writers, or business people can use the Leuchtturm notebook sizes. Although, an elastic band secures the Leuchtturm1917 notebook.
Milwaukee Leather Field notes Journal - Green
Size (inch): 3.5x5.5
Size (cm): 9x14
Number of pages: 48
Refillable: Yes
Paper type: Lined
Leather: Vegetable tanned
You can carry this journal around to jot down ideas and take notes. It provides easy access, and it is made from quality leather. An elastic band is present to keep it shut, in addition to a bookmark ribbon.
Milwaukee Leather Pad Folio Traditional - Chestnut
Size (inch): 5x8
Size (cm): 13x20
Number of pages: 50
Refillable: Yes
Paper type: Lined
Leather: Vegetable tanned
Use the Padfolio to take notes on the go. The padfolio design allows business people to keep essential cards, stickers, and notes in one place. Once you run out of paper, you can quickly fill it up again. The journal is crafted with quality leather and is longer lasting.
NOTEBOOK SIZES CHART 2024
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What Are the Different Sizes of Notebooks?
The notebook paper sizes used determines the notebook sizes. However, there are a number of notebook sizes that do not correspond to any standard paper size, such as the pocket notebook and card book. But spiral notebook sizes are available in standard paper sizes as well.
What Size Is an A5 Notebook?
This medium-sized notebook is made up of sheets of A5 paper with a standard size of 145 × 210 mm (5.70 × 8.26 in). It has the size of an average iPad, so you can use it on the go.
What Size Is B5?
Generally, the B5 notebook size is referred to as a composition notebook. It has a standard size of 190 × 250 mm (7.48 × 9.84 in). It is large enough for journaling and can easily fit into desk or nightstand drawers as a medium-sized notebook.
What Size Is B6?
This notebook size is the largest of the pocket-friendly notebook sizes. It has a standard size of 125 × 176 mm (4.9 × 6.9 in). If you need one that fits your pants pocket, you might have to go for one with a small volume.
How Big Is A6 Paper?
The A6 paper is quite pocket-friendly. Its dimensions are 105 × 148 mm (4.13 × 5.83 in), and it can be carried out without any hassle. Most journals come in this size.
How Big Is an A5 Notebook?
This A5 notebook is the most popular size for journaling. It is large enough to be used for journaling, tracking habits, writing, and drawing. A4 is quite similar to the A5; however, A4 slightly larger.
I’ve ordered 3 different leather journal covers from OLPR, and they are terrific. My favorite thing is that they are built to tight tolerances – so they fit JUST right with no waste (it’s very satisfying).
Question for OLPR – I’m looking for one of your covers for a Hobonichi Cousin – I tried to repurpose my a5 midori cover, but it’s jsut a bit too small (the Cousin is about 1/4 or 1/2 inch thicker). Any plans to make a “thick A5” holder for things like the Cousin, and it’s 5Y journal equivalent?
Excellent write up on Notebooks …just what i was looking for. thankyou