8 Best Bullet Journals for 2026 - Premium Planners That Inspire Creativity
Discover the 8 best bullet journals for 2026. From Leuchtturm1917 to Archer & Olive - expert reviews, paper comparisons, and honest recommendations for every budget.
Beautiful objects don't belong solely on your coffee table—your desk deserves them too. As we step into 2025, there's never been a better time to invest in a premium bullet journal that's as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional.
The best bullet journals aren't just notebooks. They're daily companions that transform planning from a chore into a creative ritual. Quality paper, elegant covers, and thoughtful design details make all the difference between a journal you tolerate and one you genuinely look forward to opening every day.
After extensive research across Reddit communities, journaling blogs, and hands-on reviews, we've identified the 8 best bullet journals available in the US market. Whether you're a watercolor enthusiast, minimalist planner, or creative journaler, you'll find your perfect match below.
🏆 Our Top 3 Quick Picks
Best Overall: Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2
The gold standard of bullet journaling. Designed in collaboration with Ryder Carroll (creator of the Bullet Journal method), this notebook offers the perfect balance of quality, design, and functionality. Pre-numbered pages, three ribbon bookmarks, and 120gsm paper make it the complete package.
Best for Artists: Dingbats Pro Collection
Five generations of paper-making expertise resulted in this 160gsm masterpiece. Zero ghosting, zero bleeding, and it handles watercolors beautifully. Plus, it's 100% Vegan Certified and eco-friendly. B5 size gives you more canvas space for elaborate spreads.
Best Value: Scribbles That Matter Pro
120gsm paper at an unbeatable price. Many Reddit users and bloggers claim this journal actually outperforms the Leuchtturm1917—and it costs $10 less. Perfect for beginners and experienced journalers alike.
Detailed Reviews
1. Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2 - Best Overall
Price: $31.50 | Paper: 120gsm | Size: A5 (5.75" x 8.25")
Why We Love It
The Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2 is the official notebook designed in collaboration with Ryder Carroll, the creator of the Bullet Journal method. This isn't just marketing hype—this journal was specifically engineered for bullet journaling with features you won't find elsewhere.
The 120gsm paper is a significant upgrade from the standard 80gsm Leuchtturm notebooks. It's smooth, fountain pen-friendly, and handles most markers without bleeding. The cream-colored paper reduces eye strain during long journaling sessions and gives your spreads a warmer, more sophisticated look.
What sets this apart is the built-in structure: pre-numbered pages, a key page, index pages, and a future log are already set up for you. The detachable pocket guide explains the Bullet Journal method, making it perfect for beginners. Even experienced journalers appreciate having these essentials pre-formatted.
The three ribbon bookmarks are genuinely useful—mark your monthly log, weekly spread, and a habit tracker all at once. The elastic closure keeps everything secure, and the expandable back pocket stores stickers, receipts, and loose papers.
Construction & Design
The hardcover feels substantial without being bulky. Available in multiple colors (black, blush, blue, yellow), each features blind embossing that reads "Bullet Journal" on the cover. The thread-bound construction allows the journal to lay completely flat, crucial for comfortable two-page spreads.
Performance
Reddit users consistently praise this journal's reliability. As one r/bulletjournal user put it: "I've tried cheaper alternatives, but I always come back to Leuchtturm. The quality is just consistent."
The 120gsm paper handles:
- ✅ Fountain pens (no bleeding)
- ✅ Gel pens and fineliners (perfect)
- ✅ Mild watercolor washes (light application only)
- ⚠️ Markers (some slight ghosting, but manageable)
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Official Bullet Journal design with pre-formatted pages
- 120gsm paper (thicker than standard Leuchtturm)
- Three ribbon bookmarks
- Detachable pocket guide included
- Grid guide in the inside cover
- Stickers included for organization
- Available in multiple colors
Cons:
- Higher price point ($31.50)
- Cream paper (if you prefer pure white)
- Not watercolor-proof for heavy applications
Perfect For
Beginners who want the "official" experience, fountain pen enthusiasts, anyone who values established quality and wants a journal that will last 6-8 months of daily use.
2. Scribbles That Matter Pro - Best Value
Price: $24.90 | Paper: 120gsm | Size: A5 (5.75" x 8.25")
Why We Love It
Here's a secret the bullet journal community knows: Scribbles That Matter might actually be better than Leuchtturm1917—and it costs nearly $10 less.
Popular bullet journal blogger Kalyn Brooke switched from Leuchtturm to Scribbles That Matter and never looked back. Her review highlights the superior paper quality and more attractive cover design. The vegan leather cover with two-toned strap looks and feels more premium than notebooks costing twice as much.
The 120gsm paper is identical in quality to the Leuchtturm Edition 2, but many users report slightly less ghosting. The ivory-colored paper strikes a perfect balance between the stark white of premium journals and the cream of traditional notebooks.
What Makes It Special
Scribbles That Matter comes in two versions: the "Pro" (plain cover) and "Iconic" (cover with whimsical designs). Both feature the same high-quality paper and construction.
The journal includes all the essentials: pre-numbered pages, index pages, two ribbon bookmarks, elastic closure, and an inner pocket. The lay-flat binding is excellent—the journal stays open without holding it down, crucial for two-page spreads.
Community Feedback
Reddit's r/bulletjournal consistently recommends this as the best value journal. One user wrote: "I was skeptical about switching from Leuchtturm, but the Scribbles That Matter paper is actually smoother. And the cover colors are gorgeous—I have three now in different colors."
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional value ($24.90 for 120gsm paper)
- Beautiful vegan leather cover
- Two-toned strap design
- Pre-numbered pages (1-150)
- Smooth paper with minimal ghosting
- Available in 20+ color combinations
- Excellent lay-flat binding
Cons:
- Fewer pages than Leuchtturm (150 vs 206)
- Only two ribbon bookmarks instead of three
- No included sticker sheet
Perfect For
Budget-conscious journalers who don't want to compromise on quality, anyone who loves vibrant color options, and journalers who've heard the hype and want to see what makes this journal a community favorite.
3. Dingbats Pro Collection - Best for Artists & Eco-Conscious Journalers
Price: $28.00 | Paper: 160gsm | Size: B5 (6.9" x 9.8")
Why We Love It
Dingbats Pro Collection notebooks represent five generations of paper-making expertise. Founded in Lebanon in 1800, this family-owned company has perfected the art of creating exceptional paper, and it shows in every page.
The 160gsm Mixed Media (MM) paper is specifically engineered for artists who were tired of ghosting, bleeding, and warped pages. This is serious paper for serious creators—it handles watercolors, alcohol markers, gouache, and heavy ink without breaking a sweat.
What sets Dingbats apart is the commitment to sustainability without compromising quality. Every notebook is 100% Vegan Certified, made from FSC-certified paper and renewable textile materials. Plus, 2% of UK sales goes directly to WWF-UK for wildlife conservation.
The Heritage Story
Unlike many new bullet journal brands, Dingbats comes from SKB—the oldest established paper company in Lebanon with five generations of paper-making knowledge. This isn't a trendy startup; it's a heritage brand that adapted traditional craftsmanship for modern journalers.
The Pro Collection features elegant designs: the Beetle (symbol of transformation), the Bee (representing precision), and the Cactus (embodying endurance). Each cover is debossed with gold foil on premium textile made from 100% renewable resources.
B5 Size: More Canvas for Creativity
The B5 size (6.9" x 9.8") is slightly larger than standard A5. For artists, this is a feature, not a bug—you get significantly more space for elaborate spreads, watercolor paintings, and detailed illustrations. It's still portable but offers the room creative journalers crave.
Performance
The 160gsm MM paper is exceptional:
- ✅ Heavy watercolor applications (minimal warping)
- ✅ Alcohol markers like Copics (zero bleeding!)
- ✅ Gouache and acrylic paint (excellent performance)
- ✅ Fountain pens (perfectly smooth, acid-free paper)
- ✅ Brush pens and calligraphy (ideal surface texture)
- ✅ Mixed media techniques (handles layering beautifully)
The natural matte white paper provides excellent contrast for colors while being easier on the eyes than stark white.
Sustainability That Actually Matters
Dingbats isn't greenwashing—they're legitimately committed to environmental responsibility:
- 100% Vegan Certified (no animal products in production)
- FSC-certified paper from sustainably managed forests
- Covers made from renewable textile resources
- Water-based adhesives in binding
- Fully recyclable materials
- Production water returned to rivers cleaner than before
- 2% of UK revenue donated to WWF-UK
Construction & Features
The Pro Collection includes thoughtful details:
- Thread-bound lay-flat design (opens completely flat)
- Two ribbon bookmarks (different colors)
- 128 pages (64 sheets) of 160gsm paper
- Gold-finished endpapers
- Elastic closure and pen holder
- Expandable rear pocket
- Premium textile cover (feels luxurious)
Community Feedback
Stationery Nerd review: "Dingbats represents exceptional quality at a competitive price. The 160gsm paper performs admirably with fountain pens and art mediums alike."
Well-Appointed Desk: "The Dingbats notebook completely lived up to its claim of being fountain-pen friendly. Everything performed well with no feathering issues."
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- 160gsm Mixed Media paper (handles everything!)
- Heritage brand with 200+ years of paper expertise
- 100% Vegan Certified and eco-friendly
- Beautiful gold-debossed textile covers
- Excellent value at $26 (cheaper than competitors)
- B5 size = more creative space
- Two ribbon bookmarks
- Donates 2% to wildlife conservation
Cons:
- B5 size is larger than standard A5 (won't fit A5 cases)
- Fewer pages (128 vs 150-200 in other journals)
- Limited color options (black, green, cactus design)
- Not as widely known as Leuchtturm or Moleskine
Perfect For
Artists and mixed media enthusiasts, watercolor journalers, eco-conscious creators who don't want to compromise on quality, fountain pen collectors, calligraphers, anyone who needs more space than standard A5, and journalers who value heritage craftsmanship with modern sustainability.
4. Yop & Tom A5 Dotted Notebook - Premium on a Budget
Price: $27.99 | Paper: 160gsm | Size: A5 (5.75" x 8.25")
Why We Love It
Yop & Tom offers 160gsm paper at nearly $10 less than Archer & Olive. In independent testing by Gathered magazine, this journal scored top marks for value and performance.
The vegan leather cover comes in a gorgeous range of colors with gold-embossed motifs (including leaves, geometric patterns, and minimalist designs). The buttery-smooth texture feels luxurious, though it does show wear more easily than some competitors.
Unique Features
Yop & Tom includes two features we haven't seen anywhere else:
Center markers on each page: Small dots at the center top and bottom of every page make it incredibly easy to find the middle for precise layouts. This is genius for anyone who creates symmetrical spreads.
Grid Guide: A removable card showing different grid sizes and page layouts. This helps you quickly set up calendars, habit trackers, and custom spreads without counting dots.
Performance
The 160gsm paper handles nearly everything:
- ✅ Watercolors (excellent, minimal warping)
- ✅ Gouache (light layers work well)
- ✅ All pens and markers (no bleeding)
- ⚠️ Fountain pens show very slight ghosting
Testing notes: The Gathered review found that all pens worked flawlessly, with only water-based brush pens showing minor bleeding (easily managed).
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- 160gsm paper at a great price ($24.99)
- Center markers on every page (unique!)
- Grid Guide included
- Beautiful embossed cover designs
- Two satin ribbon bookmarks
- Elastic closure and rear pocket
- Excellent value for thick paper
Cons:
- Cover shows wear/marks more easily
- Slightly softer binding than premium options
- Limited availability (mostly online)
Perfect For
Budget-conscious journalers who want 160gsm paper, anyone who struggles with centering layouts, journalers who appreciate thoughtful design details without premium pricing.
5. Moleskine Classic Dotted - Minimalist Icon
Price: $19.95 | Paper: 80gsm | Size: A5 (5" x 8.25")
Why We Love It
Moleskine is the OG notebook beloved by artists and writers for over a century. The minimalist black cover is iconic—this is the notebook Hemingway and Picasso used (in spirit, at least).
While the 80gsm paper is thinner than newer competitors, it's surprisingly fountain pen-friendly. The ivory-colored pages have a luxurious feel, and the slightly thicker texture works beautifully with traditional writing instruments.
Classic Design
The elastic closure, ribbon bookmark, and expandable inner pocket are Moleskine staples. The hardcover's rounded corners prevent dog-earing in bags and pockets.
The simplicity is the point. No pre-numbered pages, no index—just clean dotted pages waiting for your system. This appeals to purists who want complete creative freedom.
Performance
The 80gsm paper works well with:
- ✅ Fountain pens (surprisingly good!)
- ✅ Gel pens and ballpoints (perfect)
- ✅ Light fineliners (some ghosting)
- ❌ Markers (bleeding occurs)
- ❌ Watercolors (not recommended)
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Iconic minimalist design
- Affordable ($19.95)
- 240 pages (lasts longer)
- Fountain pen-friendly paper
- Slim profile (easier to carry)
- Available everywhere
- Multiple color options
Cons:
- Thinner 80gsm paper
- Ghosting with markers
- No pre-numbered pages
- Only one ribbon bookmark
- Not suitable for artistic mediums
Perfect For
Minimalists who love classic design, writers who primarily use fountain pens or gel pens, anyone who wants a sleek notebook that fits in smaller bags, travelers who prioritize portability over paper thickness.
6. Lemome Thick Paper Journal - Fountain Pen Paradise
Price: $15.99 | Paper: 125gsm | Size: A5 (5.7" x 8.4")
Why We Love It
Lemome hits the sweet spot between premium paper quality and affordable pricing. The 125gsm ivory paper is specifically designed for fountain pens—it's smooth, has minimal feathering, and dries quickly.
The vegan leather hardcover comes in elegant colors with gold-edge gilding on the paper. This gilded edge detail makes the journal look significantly more expensive than its $17 price tag suggests.
Design & Quality
The journal includes thoughtful extras: two ribbon bookmarks, an elastic closure, an inner pocket, and a pen loop. The lay-flat binding is excellent, and the journal feels substantial in hand.
Pre-numbered pages and an index make setup easy. The ivory-colored paper is easier on the eyes than pure white during extended journaling sessions.
Performance
The 125gsm paper handles:
- ✅ Fountain pens (exceptional—zero feathering)
- ✅ Gel pens (perfect)
- ✅ Fineliners (no ghosting)
- ✅ Light markers (manageable)
- ⚠️ Watercolors (very light washes only)
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value at $16.99
- 125gsm paper (thicker than most at this price)
- Gold-edge gilding (looks premium)
- Pre-numbered pages and index
- Two ribbon bookmarks
- Fountain pen-optimized paper
- Elegant color options
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy artistic mediums
- Some quality control inconsistencies reported
- Less brand recognition than Leuchtturm/Moleskine
Perfect For
Fountain pen enthusiasts on a budget, students who need a quality journal without spending $30, anyone who wants a gilded-edge journal without premium pricing, journalers who primarily write rather than paint.
7. Northbooks Dot Grid - Eco-Conscious Choice
Price: $6.66 | Paper: 100gsm | Size: A5 (5.5" x 8.5")
Why We Love It
Northbooks is a US-based company focused on sustainability. Their journals are made with recycled materials and eco-friendly processes, without compromising on quality.
The minimalist kraft paper cover (also available in black) appeals to anyone seeking a clean, understated aesthetic. The wirebound design allows the journal to fold completely back on itself—perfect for left-handed writers and anyone journaling in tight spaces.
Sustainability Focus
Unlike many bullet journal brands, Northbooks prioritizes environmental responsibility. The paper is acid-free and sourced from sustainable forests. The simple packaging uses minimal materials and is fully recyclable.
Reddit's r/bulletjournal frequently recommends Northbooks for eco-conscious journalers who want to reduce their environmental impact.
Performance
The 100gsm paper is solid for everyday use:
- ✅ Ballpoint and gel pens (perfect)
- ✅ Fineliners (minimal ghosting)
- ✅ Light markers (manageable)
- ⚠️ Fountain pens (some feathering)
- ❌ Watercolors (not recommended)
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and sustainable ($14.95)
- Made in the USA
- Wirebound (folds completely flat)
- Minimalist design
- 160 pages
- Affordable for trying bullet journaling
- Perforated pages (easy to tear out)
Cons:
- Wirebound isn't everyone's preference
- Thinner 100gsm paper
- Not ideal for artistic mediums
- Basic design (no ribbon bookmarks or elastic)
Perfect For
Eco-conscious journalers, left-handed writers (wirebound is easier), students on a budget, minimalists who prefer simple design, anyone who wants to try bullet journaling without a big investment.
8. BUKE Owl Notebook - Budget-Friendly Premium
Price: $18.99 | Paper: 180gsm | Size: A5 (5.7" x 8.2")
Why We Love It
BUKE journals offer the thickest paper on this list (180gsm!) at an incredibly affordable price. This is the hidden gem that Reddit's r/notebooks community swears by.
The bamboo paper has a unique texture that feels luxurious and performs exceptionally well with various mediums. The owl-themed cover designs add personality without being overly cute.
Why You Haven't Heard of It
BUKE doesn't have the marketing budget of Archer & Olive or Leuchtturm, but the product speaks for itself. Once bullet journalers discover it, they often become repeat customers.
The brand focuses on quality over hype, and it shows in the construction and paper performance.
Performance
The 180gsm bamboo paper is exceptional:
- ✅ Heavy watercolors (excellent!)
- ✅ Alcohol markers (no bleeding)
- ✅ Gouache and acrylics (light layers)
- ✅ All pens (perfect performance)
- ✅ Mixed media (handles well)
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- 180gsm paper (thickest available!)
- Incredibly affordable ($18.99)
- Unique bamboo paper texture
- Zero ghosting or bleeding
- Waterproof linen cover
- Handles artistic mediums beautifully
- Great value for paper thickness
Cons:
- Less known brand
- Limited color options
- Fewer pages (160)
- Design is less refined than premium options
Perfect For
Budget-conscious artists, anyone who wants the thickest paper without Archer & Olive pricing, journalers who prioritize paper performance over brand name, mixed media enthusiasts.
Quick Comparison: Best Bullet Journals at a Glance
| Bullet Journal | Best For | Paper Weight | Pages | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leuchtturm1917 Edition 2 | Overall Best | 120gsm | 206 | $31.50 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Scribbles That Matter Pro | Best Value | 120gsm | 150 | $22.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Dingbats Pro B5 | Artists/Eco-Conscious | 160gsm | 128 | $26.00 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Yop & Tom Dotted | Premium on Budget | 160gsm | 160 | $24.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Moleskine Classic | Minimalist Design | 80gsm | 240 | $19.95 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Lemome Thick Paper | Fountain Pen Users | 125gsm | 180 | $16.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Northbooks Dot Grid | Eco-Budget Choice | 100gsm | 160 | $14.95 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| BUKE Owl Notebook | Best Paper/Price Ratio | 180gsm | 160 | $18.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
How to Choose Your Perfect Bullet Journal
Paper Weight Explained
80-100gsm (Standard)
- Works well for: Ballpoint pens, gel pens, light fineliners
- Expect: Some ghosting with markers, not watercolor-friendly
- Best for: Writers, minimalists, budget-conscious journalers
- Examples: Moleskine (80gsm), Northbooks (100gsm)
120-125gsm (Premium)
- Works well for: All pens, light markers, fountain pens, mild watercolor
- Expect: Minimal ghosting, good versatility
- Best for: Most journalers, those who want flexibility
- Examples: Leuchtturm1917 Edition 2 (120gsm), Scribbles That Matter (120gsm), Lemome (125gsm)
160-180gsm (Ultra Premium)
- Works well for: Everything, including heavy watercolors and alcohol markers
- Expect: Zero ghosting, zero bleeding
- Best for: Artists, mixed media enthusiasts, watercolor lovers
- Examples: Archer & Olive (160gsm), Yop & Tom (160gsm), BUKE (180gsm)
Size Guide
A5 (5.75" x 8.25")
The most popular bullet journal size. Offers enough space for creative spreads without being bulky. Fits in most bags, backpacks, and large purses. This is the sweet spot for most journalers.
B5 (7" x 10")
Larger format for those who need more writing space or create elaborate artistic spreads. Heavier to carry but offers significantly more room for creativity.
B6 (4.9" x 7")
Compact option that fits in small purses and pockets. Good for minimalist journaling or as a secondary journal for specific tracking (fitness, gratitude, etc.).
Cover Types
Hardcover
- Durability for daily use
- Provides writing surface without desk
- Professional appearance
- Better protection for pages
- Most popular choice for bullet journals
Softcover
- More flexible, fits curved bags
- Lighter weight for travel
- Often less expensive
- Better for smaller spaces
- Preferred by minimalists
Vegan Leather
- Premium look and feel
- Smooth texture
- More expensive
- Ages beautifully (develops patina)
- Popular with aesthetic-focused journalers
Linen/Fabric
- Unique texture
- Often features beautiful foil stamping
- May show wear/stains more easily
- Luxurious feel
- Trending in 2025
Essential Features Checklist
✓ Dotted Grid (5mm is standard)
✓ Numbered Pages (or blank if you prefer DIY)
✓ Page Count (156-249 pages typical; lasts 4-8 months)
✓ Ribbon Bookmarks (1-3; more is better)
✓ Lay-Flat Binding (thread-bound or sewn)
✓ Elastic Closure (keeps pages secure)
✓ Inner Pocket (stores stickers, receipts, loose papers)
✓ Pen Loop (optional but convenient)
Consider Your Journaling Style
Writer/Planner
- Focus on: Page count, fountain pen-friendly paper
- Paper weight: 80-120gsm is sufficient
- Recommended: Moleskine, Lemome, Leuchtturm1917
Artistic/Creative
- Focus on: Paper thickness, color vibrancy
- Paper weight: 160-180gsm essential
- Recommended: Archer & Olive, BUKE, Yop & Tom
Mixed (Writing + Art)
- Focus on: Versatile paper, value
- Paper weight: 120-160gsm sweet spot
- Recommended: Scribbles That Matter, Leuchtturm Edition 2
Beginner
- Focus on: Value, forgiving paper, included guides
- Start with: Mid-range option to test the method
- Recommended: Scribbles That Matter, Northbooks
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bullet journal for beginners?
The Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2 or Scribbles That Matter are perfect for beginners. Both offer pre-numbered pages, index pages, and quality paper that works with most pens. The Leuchtturm includes a detachable guide explaining the Bullet Journal method, while Scribbles That Matter offers similar features at a lower price point. For budget-conscious beginners, Northbooks provides an excellent introduction at under $15.
What paper weight is best for bullet journaling?
For general use with pens and light markers, 80-100gsm is adequate. For more versatility including moderate marker use and light watercolor, choose 120gsm+. If you plan to use watercolors, alcohol markers, or mixed media, invest in 160gsm+ paper like Archer & Olive or BUKE. Most experienced journalers find 120gsm the sweet spot between performance and price.
Dotted vs lined vs blank for bullet journals?
Dotted (5mm grid) is overwhelmingly the most popular choice for bullet journaling. The subtle dots provide structure for writing, drawing, and creating layouts without being visually intrusive like lined paper. Lined paper works if you primarily write and rarely create visual spreads. Blank pages offer maximum creative freedom but require more confidence in freehand layouts.
How long does a bullet journal last?
A typical journal with 200-250 pages lasts 6-8 months with daily use, or 3-4 months if you use multiple pages per day for elaborate spreads. Journals with fewer pages (150-160) last about 4-6 months. Your mileage varies based on how many pages you dedicate to monthlies, weeklies, collections, and decorative spreads.
Are expensive bullet journals worth it?
Premium journals ($25-35) offer better paper quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. If you journal daily, a $30 journal that lasts 6 months costs about 16 cents per day—less than a single cup of coffee. The improved experience often justifies the investment. However, quality mid-range options like Scribbles That Matter ($23) perform nearly identically to premium journals, making them excellent value propositions.
Can I use watercolors in my bullet journal?
Only with the right paper. Standard 80gsm paper will warp and bleed through. Minimum 120gsm for light watercolor washes; 160gsm+ for serious watercolor work. Archer & Olive (160gsm) and BUKE (180gsm) specifically handle watercolors beautifully. Always test in the back of your journal first, as water load varies by technique.
What's the difference between Leuchtturm1917 and Leuchtturm Edition 2?
The standard Leuchtturm1917 has 80gsm paper and comes in various ruling types (lined, dotted, blank). The Bullet Journal Edition 2 is specifically designed for bullet journaling with upgraded 120gsm paper, pre-formatted index and key pages, a detachable pocket guide, grid guide, sticker sheet, and three ribbon bookmarks instead of two. The Edition 2 costs about $7 more but offers significantly better paper and built-in bullet journal features.
Do I need a journal with numbered pages?
Not required but highly convenient. Pre-numbered pages save significant time and are essential for the traditional Bullet Journal index system. If you prefer complete flexibility or plan to number only certain pages, choose an unnumbered journal. Most modern bullet journals include numbering, but DIY numbering with a stamp or by hand is always an option.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Choice
The best bullet journal is ultimately the one you'll actually use. Here's our quick decision guide:
If you want the official experience: Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal Edition 2
If you want the best value: Scribbles That Matter Pro
If you're an artist: Archer & Olive or BUKE
If you're on a budget: Northbooks or Lemome
If you love premium materials: Yop & Tom
If you prefer minimalism: Moleskine Classic
Consider your budget, artistic needs, and daily habits when making your choice. Don't let decision paralysis prevent you from starting—you can always try a different journal once you finish your first one.
Remember: The perfect journal is the one that inspires you to open it every day. Start with quality paper (minimum 100gsm), choose a size that fits your lifestyle (A5 for most people), and select a cover design that brings you joy.
Ready to start your bullet journal journey? Your most organized and creative 2025 begins with the first page.
Last updated: December 2024. Prices and availability subject to change. All product recommendations are based on independent research, community feedback, and expert reviews.
