Best Bullet Journals 2023: Top Picks for Organized Living
Bullet journals have become an increasingly popular productivity tool in recent years, offering an efficient and customizable way to stay organized and focused. Stemming from the traditional journaling concept, a bullet journal combines elements of a planner, to-do list, and personal development tracker all in one handy notebook. The beauty of a bullet journal is that it can be tailored to perfectly suit its user’s needs, eliminating clutter and providing a streamlined approach to daily living.
At the core of the bullet journal system lies a logical and efficient method for logging tasks and events, utilizing a unique key system comprising bullets, signifiers, and nested notes. This structured approach can help users enhance their time management skills, track their habits, and cultivate a better understanding of their personal goals and preferences. With an array of bullet journaling enthusiasts showcasing their creations online, there is no shortage of inspiration and support within the community.
When selecting the best bullet journal, some critical factors to consider include paper quality, binding type, and format. High-quality paper is essential for a smooth writing experience and minimal bleed-through or ghosting, which can be particularly important when using markers, pens, or highlighters. Durable binding ensures that your bullet journal can withstand daily use, while the format can be either blank, dotted, gridded, or ruled, depending on personal preferences and intended use.
After considering various factors and undergoing meticulous research, we have compiled a list of the best bullet journals available, catering to different needs, preferences, and budgets. We are confident that our selection will make it easy for you to choose a perfect bullet journal to start managing your life more effectively and efficiently.
Best Bullet Journals
We have compiled a list of the best bullet journals for you below. These journals offer a variety of features and designs, catering to everyone’s unique preferences. Let’s jump right into our top picks!
1. LEUCHTTURM1917 The Official Bullet Journal Edition 2
This bullet journal is a great choice for both beginners and experienced users who value quality paper and thoughtful features.
Pros
- Built-in BuJo features with pocket guide
- High-quality 120 GSM paper
- Dot-grid layout with helpful markers
Cons
- Pricey compared to basic notebooks
- Pocket guide may not be useful for experienced users
- Sticker sheet may not be useful for some
We’ve been using the LEUCHTTURM1917 Official Bullet Journal Edition 2 and we are quite impressed with its numerous features, making it an excellent companion to keep our lives organized. The Edition 2 comes with a Bullet Key, Index, Future Log, and a BuJo pocket guide, which is an excellent resource for both new and experienced bullet journalists.
The paper quality in this journal is outstanding. At 120 GSM, the pages are thicker and ideal for a wide variety of pens and markers. We didn’t have to worry about our ink bleeding through or ghosting on the pages. The dot-grid layout is subtle and versatile, allowing for both bordered and borderless designs. Additionally, the markers aid in dividing the grid and displaying page status, making it easier to create our layouts.
One small downside we’ve noticed is the price of this bullet journal. It’s a bit more expensive compared to basic notebooks, but we believe the extra cost is well-justified by the impressive paper quality and added features. Some users might find the pocket guide repetitive if they’re already BuJo experts, and the included stickers may not suit everyone’s style. However, these cons are minor and do not impact the overall usefulness of the journal.
Overall, the LEUCHTTURM1917 Official Bullet Journal Edition 2 is a superb choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of bullet journaling, or experienced users who want to level up their journaling experience with a premium notebook. With its thoughtful features and excellent paper quality, this journal will serve as a great companion in organizing our thoughts and keeping track of our life goals.
2. RETTACY Dotted Journal 2-Pack
The RETTACY Dotted Bullet Grid Journal is a prime choice for those valuing impeccable paper strength, sophisticated design, and the thoughtful extras it offers.
Pros
- Sturdy 120gsm paper that prevents ink bleed-through
- Durable and sleek PU leather hard cover
- Comes in a pack of two, offering great value
- Multiple features: Elastic Closure, Pen Holder Loop, Bookmarks, Back Pocket, and Journal Stencil
Cons
- Some may prefer a single journal rather than a pack of two
- The PU leather, while durable, might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences
The RETTACY Dotted Bullet Grid Journal stands out as a superior choice for those who are passionate about journaling, planning, or sketching. The 120gsm paper is a testament to its quality, ensuring that even the wettest inks won’t seep through. We tested multiple writing instruments, and each performed flawlessly on this paper.
A standout feature is the journal’s hard cover, made of smooth PU leather, which not only gives it a sophisticated look but also ensures longevity. The fact that this comes as a pack of two is a bonus, especially for avid writers. The additional features like the Elastic Closure, Pen Holder Loop, Bookmarks, and Back Pocket make it user-friendly and practical.
However, a potential downside is that some users might prefer purchasing a single journal rather than a pack of two. Additionally, while the PU leather is undoubtedly durable and sleek, it might not resonate with everyone’s style preferences.
In conclusion, the RETTACY Dotted Bullet Grid Journal is a worthy investment for those who value quality and functionality. Its elegant design combined with its practical features makes it an ideal gift for loved ones or a treat for oneself. If you’re on the hunt for a reliable and stylish journal, this product should be at the top of your list.
3. VIVID SCRIBBLES Dotted Journal
An excellent choice for journal enthusiasts seeking bleed-proof paper and additional features in a bullet journal.
Pros
- Premium 160GSM paper with minimal ink bleeding
- High-quality binding that lays flat
- Vegan-friendly materials and added features for organization
Cons
- Color may be different from online appearance
- Book may not close all the way after opening to lay flat
- Slightly expensive
We’ve recently been using the VIVID SCRIBBLES Dotted Journal, and we absolutely love it. The 160GSM paper truly lives up to its bleed-proof promise, allowing us to use various pens and markers without worrying about ink seeping through. We can write and sketch comfortably due to the notebook’s ability to lay flat, thanks to its high-quality binding.
What’s more, this bullet journal is made from vegan-friendly materials, which is something we appreciate, and includes little features like an elastic pen loop, pen test pages, key code page, pre-printed index pages, and an expandable inner back pocket. These features make journaling so much easier and enjoyable.
However, there were some minor drawbacks that we experienced. Firstly, the color of the journal might be slightly different than what you see online. We found it to be more of a true purple than a dark purple. Also, after opening the journal to lay flat, it might not close all the way, but this hasn’t affected our use much. Lastly, the journal is slightly expensive, but we believe the quality justifies the price.
In conclusion, we highly recommend the VIVID SCRIBBLES Dotted Journal for anyone in search of a high-quality bullet journal with bleed-proof paper and a myriad of features to enhance their journaling experience. It’s worth the investment for the quality you’re getting.
4. Regolden-Book Spiral Bullet Notebook
The Regolden-Book Spiral Bullet Notebook is a versatile choice for journal enthusiasts, with its quality features and smooth writing experience.
Pros
- Thick, 100 gsm acid-free paper
- Durable hardcover and double wire spiral
- Expandable inner pocket and pen loop
Cons
- Slightly visible ink ghosting
- Color may not match description
- Pen holder durability
We recently got our hands on the Regolden-Book Spiral Bullet Notebook and immediately noticed its Classic Hardcover, which surely provides long-lasting protection. The notebook comes in a size of 5.5 x 8.5 inches, which is convenient and portable for daily use. We found the leather cover to be smooth and soft, adding to the overall aesthetic and tactile experience.
The paper quality is worth mentioning, as the 100 gsm acid-free paper provides a silky smooth writing surface without much ink penetration. However, we did notice some minor ghosting when we used a standard black ink ballpoint pen. Nonetheless, the paper held up well even with multiple erasures, which is excellent for when you need to make changes.
An essential aspect of the notebook is its durability and functionality. The double wire spiral makes it easy to turn pages, while the expandable inner pocket allows you to store extra notes, stickers, or postcards. We loved the convenience of the pen loop, though it did break off after a few days.
In conclusion, the Regolden-Book Spiral Bullet Notebook is an excellent choice for someone looking for a reliable and stylish bullet journal. Despite some minor drawbacks, it offers a superb writing experience, and we found it ideal for various uses, including note-taking and diary writing. With its solid construction, it’s a great companion for anyone seeking a durable and long-lasting bullet journal.
5. PAPERAGE Dotted Journal Notebook
A fantastic all-around option for both novice and experienced bullet journal users due to its durability, high-quality paper, and affordable price.
Pros
- Durable and water-resistant vegan leather cover
- Premium 100 gsm acid-free paper, perfect for most pens
- Lay-flat design for easy writing and drawing
Cons
- Some pen bleed-through on thinner pages
- Grid could be a little darker for better visibility
- Just one ribbon bookmark included
We recently started using the PAPERAGE Dotted Journal Notebook, and we’ve found it to be a great companion for organizing our thoughts, doodling, and jotting down notes. The durable vegan leather cover ensures that our journal stays in great shape, even during daily use.
One of the highlights of the PAPERAGE journal is the quality of the paper. It’s made from 100 gsm acid-free paper, which is thicker than average notebooks. We’ve found that most pens, pencils, and markers work well on the paper without excessive ghosting or bleed-through. However, we recommend testing your favorite pens on a few pages to make sure they work well with the paper.
The lay-flat design is another useful feature of this journal. Both right and left-handed users can easily write and draw in it without any inconvenience. The expandable inner pocket is a great addition to store appointment cards, notes, or receipts. It also comes with sticker labels, so you can personalize your journal cover and spine.
Despite its many pros, we did notice some minor issues with the journal. Some pen ink can bleed through the pages if they are not thick enough, and the grid could be a bit darker to improve visibility. Also, the journal comes with only one ribbon bookmark, which may be insufficient for some users who want to keep track of multiple sections at once.
In conclusion, the PAPERAGE Dotted Journal Notebook is a versatile and quality option for bullet journal enthusiasts. With a stylish look, durable cover, and high-quality paper, it’s a great choice for those looking to improve their organization and creativity. Just be cautious of the minor cons that we mentioned, but overall, we think you’ll be satisfied with this product.
6. ZenART Supplies Soft Cover Large B5 Dotted Journal
This ZenART Supplies journal is ideal for bullet journaling enthusiasts who want high-quality and functional features.
Pros
- 120gsm thick, non-bleed paper
- Soft faux leather cover
- Lay-flat design
Cons
- Larger size may not be suitable for some users
- Only 80 sheets (160 pages)
- Limited binding styles available
We recently started using the ZenART Supplies Soft Cover Large B5 Dotted Journal and have been enjoying our bullet journaling experience. The smooth, ivory, 120gsm thick paper doesn’t bleed or feather with ink, making it suitable for fountain pens and similar writing instruments. Additionally, the soft cover made from eco-friendly PU faux leather gives it a premium feel without harming the environment.
Aside from being stylish and practical, we appreciate the journal’s lay-flat design, making it easy to write and draw on both sides of the page without hassle. This attribute grants us a bird’s eye view of our notes and makes bullet journal organization quicker. The traditional Seigaiha (surging sea waves) edging adds elegance and auspicious symbolism to the journal.
While the larger B5 size offers ample space for creative ideas, it may not be for users who prefer more compact sizes such as A5 or pocket journals. Furthermore, with 80 sheets (160 pages) available, the journal might be considered limited in comparison to others containing more pages. Lastly, the lack of binding style variety may be a downside for some customers who prefer different appearances, such as coil-bound notebooks or hardcovers.
Overall, we think the ZenART Supplies Soft Cover Large B5 Dotted Journal is an excellent choice for bullet journal enthusiasts seeking quality paper, a lay-flat design, and a stylish soft cover. However, we advise potential buyers to consider the size and binding style before making a purchase, as these personal preferences vary from person to person.
7. Scribbles That Matter A5 Dotted Journal
The Scribbles That Matter Journal offers excellent paper quality and essential features, making it well worth your investment.
Pros
- High-quality 160gsm paper resists bleed-through and ghosting
- Sturdy layflat binding for ease of writing or drawing
- Pre-numbered pages, key and index, and pen test page for bullet journaling convenience
Cons
- May not be the best option for fountain pen users
- Price may be a little steep compared to some alternatives
- Limited color options available
When we first got our hands on the Scribbles That Matter A5 Dotted Journal, we were immediately drawn to the quality and thickness of the 160gsm paper, which effectively resists bleed-through and ghosting. This makes it an excellent choice for various pens and markers without worrying about ruining the pages.
Another notable feature of this journal is the layflat binding, allowing for effortless writing or drawing regardless of whether we were left or right-handed. The hardcover feels durable, ensuring our journal’s longevity even with frequent use.
As a bullet journal, it comes with pre-numbered pages, key and index pages, and even a pen test page—no need to fuss with a regular notebook pretending to be a bullet journal. This journal covers all the essential features that we need to start or advance our bullet journaling journey.
However, it’s important to note that the 160gsm paper might not be the best choice for heavy fountain pen users. Some reviews mentioned the ink not absorbing well, so if you primarily use fountain pens, you may want to consider this factor before purchasing.
Additionally, while the journal isn’t excessively pricey compared to other options, it may still be on the higher end for some budgets. Finally, the color options for the journal are quite limited, which might be a drawback if you prefer more variety in your choice of journal covers.
Overall, the Scribbles That Matter A5 Dotted Journal stands out for its great paper quality, layflat binding, and essential bullet journaling features, making it a top choice for those who seek a reliable journal for organizing, planning, and staying inspired. Just beware of the potential drawbacks we mentioned, depending on your preferences and requirements.
8. VIVID SCRIBBLES Dotted Journal
We highly recommend this journal for its premium paper quality, versatility, and bonus features.
Pros
- Premium 160gsm bleedproof paper
- High-quality book binding
- Vegan-friendly with user-friendly features
Cons
- Slight issues with included stickers
- May receive a different color than ordered
- Occasional inconsistencies with the dots
The VIVID SCRIBBLES Dotted Journal is a fantastic option for those looking to document their thoughts, track habits, or create their own planner. The paper quality is truly impressive, with its thick 160gsm sheets ensuring that ink won’t bleed through. We used various pens, and none caused any issues, making it perfect for people who love trying out different writing tools.
One thing we appreciated was the durable book binding. Even with frequent use and flipping the journal open to lay flat at all angles, we noticed no sign of wear on the spine. Plus, the vegan-friendly faux leather cover adds a touch of sophistication, and the rounded corners make it comfortable to hold. The elastic pen loop, pen test pages, key code page, pre-printed index pages, and expandable inner back pocket also come in handy, as they make organizing our notes a breeze.
However, there are a few minor drawbacks that we must mention. The stickers provided with the journal, while a nice touch, had some trouble adhering to the pages. Furthermore, there have been instances where the cover color received was different from the one ordered, though this might not be a deal-breaker for some people. Additionally, we noticed that the dots on the pages can be slightly inconsistent at times, but this didn’t hinder our overall experience.
Despite these minor issues, we found the VIVID SCRIBBLES Dotted Journal to be a top-quality investment for organizing our lives and recording our memories. With its beautiful design and useful features, it makes an excellent gift for friends, family, or even yourself. So if you’re seeking a practical and stylish journal, look no further than this great option.
9. BEINUSHOR Notebook Journal
We highly recommend this notebook for its sturdy cover, suitability for bullet journaling, and prompt delivery.
Pros
- Sturdy and attractive cover
- Dotted pages ideal for bullet journaling
- Fast delivery
Cons
- Some reports of damaged or scratched cover upon delivery
- Pages might be thinner than expected for some users
- Some inconsistencies with advertised features
The BEINUSHOR Dotted Notebook A5 stands out as a reliable choice for those diving into the world of bullet journaling or simply seeking a quality notebook. Its cover, both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing, promises durability. The dotted pages are a boon for bullet journal enthusiasts, offering a structured yet flexible canvas for creativity.
One of the highlights is the prompt delivery, which many users appreciated. This ensures that eager writers and planners can start their journaling journey without much delay.
However, it’s essential to note a few areas of concern. Some users reported receiving a notebook with a damaged or scratched cover. Additionally, while the paper quality is generally good, a few found the pages to be thinner than they had anticipated, which might be a concern for those using heavier ink pens. There were also occasional discrepancies between the product’s advertised features and what was received.
Despite these concerns, the BEINUSHOR Dotted Notebook A5 remains a commendable choice for many. Its design and functionality make it a worthy addition to any writer’s collection. If you’re on the hunt for a notebook that combines style with utility, this might just be the one for you.
10. SUNEE Dotted Journal Spiral Notebook
We highly recommend the SUNEE Dotted Journal Spiral Notebook for its sturdy construction, quality paper, and vibrant colors. This pack of three notebooks is perfect for those who love to stay organized and jot down their thoughts or sketches.
Pros
- Good quality 120gsm paper
- Sturdy covers that can withstand daily use
- Great for organizing with date stamps
- Compact and easy to use, perfect for on-the-go note-taking
- Attractive colors: Blue, Pink, Transparent
Cons
- Some users reported ink bleeding through the pages
- Dots on the pages can be difficult to see clearly
- Issues with loose spirals in some units
The SUNEE Dotted Journal Spiral Notebook stands out for its quality and design. The 120gsm paper is of good quality, ensuring minimal bleed-through, although some users did report occasional issues. The sturdy covers, combined with the spiral binding, make it easy to flip through the pages and lay the notebook flat. The dotted pages are great for organizing, and the date stamps add a touch of convenience for tracking daily notes or tasks.
However, there are a few points to consider. The dots on the pages can be a bit faint, making them hard to see for some users. Additionally, there were reports of loose spirals, which might affect the notebook’s durability over time.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the SUNEE Dotted Journal Spiral Notebook is a reliable choice for students, professionals, artists, and anyone in between. The pack of three notebooks, each with a distinct color, makes it a giftable option for friends or colleagues. If you’re in the market for a functional and stylish notebook, this product is worth considering.
11. HIUKOOKA Journal A5 Notebook
We’re thoroughly impressed with the HIUKOOKA Dotted Bullet Grid Journal for its ample page count, quality paper, and the added drawing board feature.
Pros
- 320 pages for extensive note-taking
- 100gsm thick paper suitable for various writing tools
- Leather journal notebook for a touch of elegance
- Comes with a handy drawing board
Cons
- Nothing to mention here!
The HIUKOOKA Dotted Bullet Grid Journal stands out as an excellent choice for those who require a substantial amount of space for their writings, sketches, or planning needs. With a whopping 320 pages, this journal ensures that you won’t run out of space anytime soon. The 100gsm thick paper is of commendable quality, allowing for the use of a variety of writing instruments without the worry of bleed-through.
The leather notebook design not only provides durability but also adds a touch of sophistication to the overall look. This makes it a suitable choice for both personal and professional settings. A unique feature that caught our attention is the inclusion of a drawing board, which can be particularly beneficial for those who like to sketch or doodle.
While the journal ticks most of the boxes for an ideal notebook, there might be minor aspects that some users could find lacking. However, these do not detract from the overall quality and functionality of the product.
In conclusion, the HIUKOOKA Dotted Bullet Grid Journal is a reliable and stylish choice for all your writing and sketching needs. Whether you’re gifting it to someone or getting one for yourself, it promises to be a valuable addition to any collection.
Buyers Guide
Navigating the vast world of journals can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of options available. To assist you in making an informed decision, we’ve crafted this comprehensive Buyers Guide, tailored to address your journaling needs.
Purpose
- Daily Journaling: If your primary goal is to document daily events, reflections, or gratitude, opt for a journal with a dated layout and ample writing space.
- Artistic Endeavors: For those inclined towards sketching or watercoloring, a journal with thick, acid-free pages is paramount.
- Planning & Organization: Seek out journals with pre-structured layouts, monthly tabs, and goal-setting sections for optimal productivity.
Paper Quality
- GSM Rating: A higher GSM (grams per square meter) indicates thicker paper. For fountain pen users or artists, 160gsm or above is ideal to prevent bleed-through.
- Texture: Smooth pages are preferable for ballpoint or gel pens, while a slight texture can enhance the experience for pencil or charcoal users.
Binding & Durability
- Sewn Binding: Offers longevity and allows the journal to lay flat, facilitating easier writing.
- Spiral Binding: Provides flexibility, especially for those who prefer to fold their journal back on itself.
- Cover Material: Hardcovers offer protection and sturdiness, while softcovers provide a lightweight alternative.
Additional Features
- Pockets: An expandable back pocket can be invaluable for storing loose notes, receipts, or mementos.
- Bookmarks: Integrated ribbons or elastic bands help keep your place and ensure quick access to specific sections.
- Eco-Friendly: For the environmentally conscious, journals made from recycled materials or sustainable sources are a commendable choice.
Aesthetics
- Design: While functionality is key, the visual appeal of a journal can enhance the writing experience. Consider patterns, colors, and overall design that resonate with your personal style.
- Customization: Some journals offer personalization options, such as monogramming or bespoke covers, adding a touch of individuality.
In conclusion, the perfect journal is a blend of functionality and personal preference. By considering the aforementioned aspects, you’re well on your way to finding a journal that not only meets your needs but also complements your style. Happy journaling!