Top Writing Supplies for Every Writer
The Moleskine Classic Notebook is the top pick for most writers because it combines durable construction, quality paper, and a timeless design. Its main advantage is the versatility, suitable for journaling, note-taking, or sketching. Its main limitation is the higher price point compared to other notebooks.
Writing supplies are more than just tools; they can enhance creativity and productivity. Choosing the right notebook or pen can make a significant difference in your writing experience.
Our roundup covers a range of writing supplies, from traditional paper notebooks to advanced digital pens. Each product is selected based on its performance, durability, and user feedback.
How to pick the right one
The shortlist, ranked
Moleskine Classic Notebook
The Moleskine Classic Notebook is an iconic choice, known for its quality paper and sturdy cover. It has a ribbon bookmark and an expandable inner pocket, making it practical for everyday use.
Pros
- High-quality paper that resists ink bleed
- Sturdy construction and elegant design
- Includes ribbon bookmark and elastic closure
Cons
- More expensive than similar notebooks
- Paper is not fountain pen friendly
Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook
Rocketbook lets you write with a Pilot Frixion pen and then wipe the pages clean with a damp cloth. Use the app to scan and send your notes to cloud services like Google Drive or email.
Pros
- Reusable, saving paper and money
- Effortless digitization of handwriting
- Compatible with multiple cloud services
Cons
- Requires special pens (Frixion)
- Some users find erasing leaves ghosting
Lamy Safari Fountain Pen
The Lamy Safari is a legendary fountain pen known for its ergonomic grip and reliable performance. It comes with a stainless steel nib that offers a smooth writing experience.
Pros
- Excellent value for a quality fountain pen
- Ergonomic grip reduces hand fatigue
- Interchangeable nibs for customization
Cons
- Requires maintenance to prevent clogging
- May leak if not used regularly
Pilot G2 Premium Gel Pen
Pilot G2 pens are a favorite among students and professionals for their smooth, vibrant ink and comfortable grip. They are affordable and widely available.
Pros
- Smooth writing with minimal skipping
- Comfortable rubber grip
- Affordable and long-lasting
Cons
- Ink may smudge on certain papers
- Not refillable
Leuchtturm1917 Medium Notebook
The Leuchtturm1917 notebook is a top pick for bullet journalists due to its numbered pages, table of contents, and index. It features high-quality paper that handles various inks well.
Pros
- Numbered pages and index for easy organization
- Durable hardcover with elastic closure
- Paper is fountain pen friendly
Cons
- Can be pricey
- Limited color options
Livescribe Symphony Smartpen
Livescribe Symphony is a smartpen that records audio while you write, syncing your notes with the audio. It requires special dot paper and pairs with a mobile app for playback.
Pros
- Syncs audio with written notes for review
- Large storage capacity
- Good for students and professionals
Cons
- Requires expensive dot paper
- Setup and app can be finicky
Pentel EnerGel Retractable Gel Pen
Pentel EnerGel pens are known for their fast-drying liquid gel ink, which prevents smudging and is great for left-handed writers. The retractable design and comfortable grip make it a reliable choice.
Pros
- Ink dries quickly, reducing smudges
- Smooth and vivid colors
- Affordable
Cons
- Ink can skip on glossy paper
- Not as durable as some metal pens
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Size | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Moleskine Classic Notebook | Large (5 x 8.25 inches) | Traditional journaling | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook | Letter or Executive | Digitizing handwritten notes | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Lamy Safari Fountain Pen | Steel, medium point | Smooth cursive writing | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Pilot G2 Premium Gel Pen | Gel, quick-drying | Everyday writing on a budget | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Leuchtturm1917 Medium Notebook | Medium (5.75 x 8.25 inches) | Bullet journaling | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | Livescribe Symphony Smartpen | 8GB internal memory | Recording lectures and meetings | 8.4 | Check price |
| 7 | Pentel EnerGel Retractable Gel Pen | Liquid gel, quick-dry | Fast writers | 8.2 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
What is the best notebook for fountain pens?
Notebooks with 90gsm or higher paper, like the Leuchtturm1917, are ideal for fountain pens as they prevent ink bleed-through and feathering.
How can I digitize my handwritten notes?
Use a smart notebook like Rocketbook or a smartpen such as Livescribe. These tools scan and sync your notes to digital platforms like Google Drive or Evernote.
Are gel pens better than ballpoint pens?
Gel pens offer smoother ink and more vibrant colors, but they may smudge if not quick-drying. Ballpoint pens are more reliable and less likely to dry out.
What should I look for in a writing pen?
Consider grip comfort, ink type, and tip size. For long writing sessions, an ergonomic grip reduces fatigue. Test different sizes to find one that suits your writing style.
How do I clean a fountain pen?
Flush the nib and converter with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Let it dry completely before storing. Regular use prevents ink from drying and clogging.
Can I use any pen with Rocketbook?
No, Rocketbook requires Pilot Frixion pens because their ink is erasable with heat. Other pens will not wipe off.
Which notebook is best for bullet journaling?
The Leuchtturm1917 is a top choice because it has numbered pages, an index, and a durable cover. It comes in various sizes and colors.
How many pages should a notebook have?
The number of pages depends on your usage. A standard notebook has around 200 pages, which is sufficient for months of notes. If you write daily, consider 300 or more.
Is a smartpen worth the investment?
For students or professionals who need to record lectures or meetings, a smartpen like Livescribe can be valuable. It saves time by syncing audio to notes, making review easier.
What is the advantage of a reusable notebook?
Reusable notebooks like Rocketbook are eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run. You can scan and erase your notes, reducing paper waste.
The bottom line
If you want a reliable traditional notebook, the Moleskine Classic is our top recommendation for its quality and versatility. For those who need to digitize notes frequently, the Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook offers excellent value with its reusable pages and cloud integration. For an everyday pen, the Pilot G2 provides smooth writing at an affordable price, making it a practical choice for most writers.
Marcus Chen
Marcus covered consumer electronics for enthusiast tech publications for six years before joining ChoiceCrest. He specializes in translating manufacturer spec sheets into plain-language buying advice, with a focus on audio, computing accessories and smart-home gear.
