The Best Small-to-Medium Notebook: Planning, Notes, Brain Dumps, & much More!
Not too big, not too small. I love this PAPERAGE medium-size spiral notebook and use multiple colors for different projects. Read this Dad’s review on its size, paper quality, and how it boosts my notetaking & planning productivity.
by
Eric Sharp
Modified last on
Dec 28, 2025
Not too big, not too small. I love this PAPERAGE medium-size spiral notebook and use multiple colors for different projects. Read this Dad’s review on its size, paper quality, and how it boosts my notetaking & planning productivity.
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Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer
This content may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I may receive a small commission to help purchase more Dad-friendly products to do more helpful reviews! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
A beloved notebook can do wonders for your productivity.
I’ve tried multiple notebooks for the last two decades, of various sizes. For a season, I tried Michael Hyatt’s Full Focus Planner, which is less notebook and more planner. Before that, I used the Blue Sky Notes professional notebook with fancy charcoal paper and graph back. And there have been others.
But none of these stuck for the long haul.
Last year, I discovered the PAPERAGE medium-sized spiral notebook. Its 5.5″ x 8″ size, lay-flat design, smooth ivory paper, and elastic bookmark help me get the job(s) done. And it comes in multiple colors.
If you’re looking for a notebook:
- larger than a pocket notebook (e.g., Field Notes 3.5″ × 5.5″ )
- smaller than a traditional 8.5″ x 11″ notebook
- lays perfectly flat, unlike a hard-spined notebook (e.g., Moleskine)
This PAPERAGE may hit the sweet spot!
My Quick Video Review
Here’s a quick video review of the PAPERAGE Lined Spiral Journal 5.5″ x 8″ Notebook:
Other Products to boost Productivity
Here are a few complementary products you may be interested in pairing with the PAPERAGE notebook:
- Pair with an easy-glide pen! I’ve used the same pen for years, the Pilot Dr. Grip Gel Pen with 1.0mm thickness. Bold, rich, and easily refillable.
- Hang a whiteboard, see your goals/tasks. This is the best glass whiteboard out there. The surface is smooth and magnetic! I love having my goals staring at me every day.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick look at what stood out to me after using the PAPERAGE notebook regularly.
What I Liked
- Perfect Medium Size – The 5.5″ x 8″ format fits easily in my hand, bag, or desk drawer while still offering plenty of writing space.
- Lays Completely Flat – The double spiral binding makes it easy to write on both sides without fighting the spine.
- Thick, Easy‑on‑the‑Eyes Paper – The ivory 100gsm paper feels premium and is much easier on the eyes than bright white pages.
- Durable Hardcover – The vegan leather cover feels sturdy and holds up well to daily use.
- Thoughtful Extras – Ribbon bookmark, inner pocket, elastic closure, and label stickers are all nice bonuses.
What Can Be Improved
- Gold Spiral Isn’t for Everyone – Looks classy, but some may prefer a more neutral wire color.
- Price (maybe) – If you’re comparing it to a cheap Dollar Store notebook, this certainly will feel overpriced.
Quick Verdict
If you’re looking for a small‑to‑medium spiral notebook that feels premium, lies flat, and stays durable over time, this one checks all the boxes. I’d easily recommend it for dads who want a dedicated notebook for journaling, planning, or creative work.
Top Amazon Reviews
Don’t just take my word for it, here’s what others are saying about the PAPERAGE Lined Spiral Journal Notebook.
- “Perfect size for everyday notes” – One reviewer loved how easy it is to carry while still having enough space to write comfortably.
- “High‑quality paper that doesn’t bleed” – Multiple users praised the thick ivory pages for working well with pens and markers.
- “Feels more premium than expected” – Customers consistently mentioned the sturdy cover and heavy‑duty spiral binding.
Unboxing – What’s Inside?
- PAPERAGE spiral notebook
- Ribbon bookmark
- Elastic closure band
- Expandable inner pocket
- Sticker labels for spine and cover
Specifications
- Size: 5.5″ x 8″ (also comes in 8.14″ x 10″)
- Pages: 160 lined pages (also comes in a grid)
- Paper Weight: 100 GSM, acid‑free
- Cover: Vegan leather hardcover
- Binding: Double wire spiral
- Color: Multiple colors (I’ve used the Black and Yellow), the 3-packs are great!
5 Key Features I Found
This notebook keeps things simple, but the details are what make it stand out.
1. Ideal Medium Size Format
This 5.5″ x 8″ size hits a rare balance. It’s small enough to feel intentional — almost like a personal project notebook — but large enough to write full thoughts without feeling cramped. I specifically wanted something that didn’t feel bulky but still allowed me to organize ideas clearly.
2. Double Spiral That Lays Flat
The sturdy double spiral binding allows the notebook to lay completely flat on a desk, making it easy to write on both sides of the page. I didn’t want a notebook I had to wrestle open every time I used it, and this solves that problem nicely.
Dad Tip: I keep one notebook strictly for video ideas. When I pick it up, I instantly know what it’s for — no mental clutter.
3. Thick, Ivory 100gsm Paper
The paper quality genuinely surprised me. It’s thicker than standard notebooks and has a soft ivory tone that’s easier on the eyes during longer writing sessions. I’ve used pens and markers without noticeable bleed‑through, which makes it great for clean note‑taking.
Dad Tip: Non‑bright white paper makes longer writing sessions easier, especially if you’re jotting notes late at night.
4. Simple but Premium Build
From the vegan leather hardcover to the rounded corners, everything feels well thought out. It’s not flashy, but it feels intentional and durable — exactly what I want from something I use regularly.
5. Useful Built‑In Extras
The ribbon bookmark helps you keep your place, the elastic band keeps everything secure, and the back pocket is handy for loose notes or cards. I don’t use the stickers much, but they’re a nice option if you want to label things clearly.
Dad’s Final Thoughts
Fun fact: Studies show that writing ideas by hand can improve memory and clarity compared to typing — especially when brainstorming or planning creative projects.
At the end of the day, this PAPERAGE spiral notebook does exactly what it promises. It’s simple, well‑built, and easy to stick with. If you want a notebook that feels purposeful and stays out of your way, this one earns a spot on your desk.
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About Eric
Eric Sharp is the founder of Healthy Dad Hacks. He's married to the love of his life (Sarah) and proud Dad of a blended family (Hazel, Roman, & Dean). When not thinking about Dadhood, he enjoys; CrossFit, entrepreneurship, eating steak, growing his Michael Jordan card collection, 90s music, and fancy sneakers.
