A5 notebooks offer more writing area for notes and planning, while A6 is a compact pocket format. Dimensions vary by maker, cover and binding, so compare the finished notebook's listed measurements with your bag, desk and preferred writing layout.
The format label is a quick size clue, but a notebook’s cover and binding affect its finished dimensions. Use the product’s measurements when checking whether it fits a bag or shelf.
Format comparison
These are examples from Leuchtturm1917’s notebook guide; other brands may list slightly different finished dimensions.
| Format example | Listed size | Writing space | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| A5 Medium | 5.75 × 8.25 in | More room for longer notes, lists and sketches | Desk use or a larger everyday bag |
| A6 Pocket | 3.5 × 6 in | Compact pages for short notes and lists | Small bags, coat pockets and travel |
Choose by how you will carry it
- Measure the space. Check the inside pocket, shelf or desk drawer, then compare it with the maker’s full notebook dimensions.
- Estimate your page needs. A5 suits longer entries and layouts that need more columns; A6 keeps the page compact.
- Consider binding and cover. Hardcover and softcover versions of the same format can have different overall dimensions and flexibility.
- Check the paper and ruling. Look for lined, dotted, blank or grid pages and the maker’s paper details.
- Test the carry weight. If you take notes throughout the day, compare the actual notebook weight and whether it lies flat when open.
If you use fountain pens, compare paper details in our paper planner guide and beginner fountain pen guide. Browse notebooks and journals.
Sources
Common questions
Is A5 larger than A6?
Yes. A5 is the larger format. Notebook dimensions vary by brand, so check the product measurements.
Which size fits in a small bag?
A6 is the more compact format in the examples below. Compare the notebook's full cover dimensions with the bag pocket.
Which size is better for journaling?
A5 gives more page area, while A6 takes less space. Choose by how much you usually write and where you carry the notebook.