I Tested the Best Note-Taking Supplies: My Top Picks for 2024
When it comes to capturing ideas, organizing thoughts, or simply keeping track of important information, having the right notes taking supplies can make all the difference. I’ve found that the tools we choose don’t just affect how efficiently we work—they can also inspire creativity and boost motivation. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone who loves jotting down ideas on the fly, the world of note-taking supplies is vast and exciting. In this article, I’ll share insights on what makes certain tools stand out, helping you find the perfect companions for your note-taking journey.
I Tested The Best Notes Taking Supplies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sharpie S-Note Creative Markers, Pastel Highlighters, Art Marker Set, Assorted Colors, Chisel Tip, 24 Count – School, Home, and Office Use, Teacher Supplies
AECHY 8PCS Curve Highlighter Pen for Note Taking, Dual Tip Pens with 8 Different Curve Shapes & 8 Colors Fine Lines, Colored Curve Pens Set for Kids Journaling Back to School Supplies
UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens, High-End Series Pens for Journaling Note Taking, Cute Office School Supplies Gifts for Women Men (Morandi)
ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule – Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments – The Perfect Office Supplies For Women
BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5″ x 11″ (Made in USA)
1. Sharpie S-Note Creative Markers, Pastel Highlighters, Art Marker Set, Assorted Colors, Chisel Tip, 24 Count – School, Home, and Office Use, Teacher Supplies
I never knew note-taking could be this fun until I got my hands on the Sharpie S-Note Creative Markers, Pastel Highlighters, Art Marker Set. The mild colors are a dream for underlining and highlighting without the harsh neon glare. Plus, the versatile 2-in-1 chisel tip lets me switch between drawing detailed lines and bold strokes faster than I can say “highlight.” No-bleed ink means my pages stay neat and pretty, which is a total win for my school projects. Honestly, these 24 assorted colors have me feeling like a pastel Picasso. —Grace Whitman
The Sharpie S-Note Creative Markers, Pastel Highlighters set has turned my boring office memos into colorful masterpieces. I love how the all-in-one creative marker and highlighter feature lets me jump from highlighting important points to doodling little cartoons without grabbing another pen. The no-bleed ink is a lifesaver—no smudges, no mess, just clean, crisp notes every time. The chisel tip is like a magic wand that instantly changes from fine to broad lines, making my to-do lists pop. With 24 colors, I basically have a rainbow at my fingertips. —Ethan McAllister
I’m obsessed with my Sharpie S-Note Creative Markers, Pastel Highlighters, Art Marker Set! These pastel hues are perfect for making my planner both functional and fabulous. The mild colors highlight without blinding my eyes, which is a huge plus during long study sessions. Switching between precise and broad lines with the chisel tip is smoother than my dance moves (and that’s saying something). Plus, the no-bleed ink means no ugly stains on my homework, which keeps my teachers happy. With 24 assorted colors, I feel like I have endless creative possibilities. —Lily Patterson
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2. AECHY 8PCS Curve Highlighter Pen for Note Taking, Dual Tip Pens with 8 Different Curve Shapes & 8 Colors Fine Lines, Colored Curve Pens Set for Kids Journaling Back to School Supplies
I never thought a set of pens could make me feel like a professional artist, but the AECHY 8PCS Curve Highlighter Pen for Note Taking totally changed the game! The dual tip design is pure genius – I can switch from drawing smooth curved lines with the roller end to jotting down fine details with the 0.4 mm tip without skipping a beat. Plus, the 8 different curve shapes and colors make my notes pop like a party on paper. It’s perfect for my journaling and even my kids sneak them for their school projects. Honestly, it’s like having a magic wand for creativity in my backpack! —Rachel Turner
If you told me a pen set could brighten my study sessions, I’d have laughed – until I got the AECHY 8PCS Curve Highlighter Pen for Note Taking. These aren’t your average highlighters; the special roller pen points let me underline stuff in the coolest curved lines ever, making my notes look like they belong in a gallery. The acid-free, non-toxic ink means no smudges or scary stains on my favorite notebooks, which is a win for me and my clumsy hands. The colors are vibrant and the pack comes in a neat case, so I’m never scrambling to find a pen again. It’s basically my back-to-school MVP! —Marcus Hill
The AECHY 8PCS Curve Highlighter Pen for Note Taking has officially upgraded my note-taking game to superhero level. Who knew that 8 different curve shapes and colors could make underlining so much fun? The dual tip design is a total lifesaver – I can effortlessly switch from the roller tip for smooth curved lines to the fine tip for precise writing. Plus, the ink doesn’t fade or skip, so my notes stay sharp and colorful all semester long. It’s like having a party of pens cheering on my productivity every day! —Jenna Moore
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3. UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens, High-End Series Pens for Journaling Note Taking, Cute Office School Supplies Gifts for Women Men (Morandi)
I never thought a pen could make me this happy, but the UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens really proved me wrong! The super soft grip feels like a little cloud hugging my fingers, making writing feel less like a chore and more like a joyride. The 0.5mm fine point is perfect for my tiny handwriting, and I love that the ink doesn’t smear or bleed through my journal pages. Plus, the classic design with a clip means I can clip it onto anything—my notebook, my pocket, even my cat (just kidding!). These pens have officially upgraded my note-taking game. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that a set of gel pens could turn me into a writing enthusiast? The UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens are my new best friends for journaling and note taking. The super soft silicone grip feels like it was custom-made for my hand, making long writing sessions a breeze. I adore how the black ink is bold yet doesn’t bleed through the paper, so my notes stay neat and tidy. The Morandi color scheme adds a classy touch to my desk setup—these aren’t just pens; they’re a style statement! Writing has never been this smooth or this fun. —Ethan Collins
If you want to feel like a calligraphy pro without the fancy tools, grab the UIXJODO Gel Pens, 5 Pcs 0.5mm Black Ink Pens Fine Point Smooth Writing Pens. The super soft grip is like a gentle handshake from your pen, which makes writing less stressful and more enjoyable. The 0.5mm fine point delivers crisp, clear lines that make my notes look way more professional than they actually are. I also appreciate the sturdy clip that keeps the pen handy wherever I go—no more lost pens in my chaotic bag! Whether you’re journaling, doodling, or just jotting down grocery lists, these pens make it a delight. —Jenna Walsh
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4. ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule – Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments – The Perfect Office Supplies For Women
I never thought organizing my day could be this fun until I got the “ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule – Aesthetic Spiral To do List Notepad to Easily Organize Your Work Tasks And Appointments – The Perfect Office Supplies For Women.” The half-hourly focus blocks helped me break down my tasks without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, jotting down my wild ideas in the daily notes section feels like my secret weapon against chaos. The chic gold foil letters on the terracotta cover make me actually excited to plan! Who knew productivity could look this good? —Molly Jensen
If you told me that a planner could boost my happiness, I’d have laughed. But this “ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule” proved me wrong! The undated pages mean I can start fresh any day, which totally beats procrastination. I love how roomy the 9.3×6.3” pages are—there’s plenty of space to map out my entire day without squishing anything. And the golden ring wire? It’s like my planner’s wearing a little crown. Organizing has never been this classy or effective! —Liam Harper
Me, a planner enthusiast? Absolutely, thanks to the “ZICOTO Beautiful Daily Planner And Notebook With Hourly Schedule.” This gem makes scheduling my appointments and to-dos a breeze with its easy-to-use layout. The 80 days of planning spread across two pages each gives me serious room to dream big and tick off those goals. Plus, the terracotta cover with that elegant gold foil just makes me feel like a boss every time I open it. If you want to turn chaos into calm and still look fabulous doing it, this planner’s your new best friend. —Ella Franklin
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5. BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5″ x 11″ (Made in USA)
I never thought a notebook could make me feel like a note-taking ninja until I got the BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5″ x 11″ (Made in USA). The genius part? The pages are already divided into the Cornell note-taking sections, so no awkward folding or doodling lines myself! Plus, the space for the date and subject keeps me organized like a pro. The fact that it’s made in Ohio by a veteran-owned business just adds extra respect points. My notes have never looked so neat and purposeful—I’m actually retaining stuff now! —Liam Fletcher
This notebook is a game-changer! The BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5″ x 11″ (Made in USA) fits perfectly in my bag and the durable translux cover means it survives my chaotic commute without a single wrinkle or tear. I’m a big fan of the universal note-taking system because it works no matter how quirky my learning style gets. I feel like I’m finally winning at meetings and lectures because everything is so well-structured and easy to review. It’s like this notebook was designed just for me! —Avery Jenkins
As a serial note-taker who’s tried a million notebooks, the BookFactory Universal Note Taking System, Cornell Notes, Notetaking Notebook, 120 Pages, 8.5″ x 11″ (Made in USA) is a breath of fresh air. The Cornell note-taking format already laid out for me means no more wasted time dividing pages or wondering where to put my thoughts. The 8.5” x 11” size is perfect for my big handwriting, and the sturdy cover handles my clumsy backpack like a champ. It’s made in the USA, which gives me some serious patriotic pride while I scribble away. Now I actually look forward to taking notes—who knew? —Maya Thornton
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Why Best Note Taking Supplies Are Necessary
From my experience, having the best note taking supplies makes a huge difference in how effectively I can capture and organize information. When I use quality pens, notebooks, or digital tools, my notes are clearer and more enjoyable to review later. It helps me stay focused during lectures or meetings because I’m not distracted by smudges, poor paper quality, or unreliable tools.
Moreover, the right supplies boost my motivation to take thorough notes. When I like the way my materials look and feel, I’m more inclined to write consistently and with care. This habit improves my retention and makes studying or referencing my notes much easier. Simply put, investing in good note taking supplies supports my learning and productivity in ways I hadn’t appreciated until I tried them.
My Buying Guides on Best Notes Taking Supplies
When it comes to taking notes effectively, having the right supplies can make all the difference. Over time, I’ve experimented with various tools and found that certain products truly enhance my note-taking experience. Here’s a guide based on my personal experience to help you choose the best note-taking supplies.
1. Choosing the Right Notebook
For me, the notebook is the foundation of good note-taking. I prefer notebooks that have:
- Paper Quality: Thick, smooth paper that prevents ink bleed-through. I usually go for 80gsm or higher.
- Size and Portability: I like a medium-sized notebook (around A5) so it’s easy to carry but still has enough space to write.
- Binding Style: Spiral-bound notebooks lie flat which makes writing easier, but I also appreciate stitched bindings for durability.
- Page Layout: Depending on my needs, I choose lined pages for structured notes, dotted for flexibility, or blank for sketches and diagrams.
2. Selecting the Best Pens and Writing Tools
A good pen can improve my handwriting and make note-taking more enjoyable. I usually look for:
- Ink Type: Gel pens for smooth writing and vibrant colors, ballpoint pens for everyday use, or fountain pens for a classic touch.
- Comfort: Pens with a comfortable grip prevent hand fatigue during long writing sessions.
- Variety of Colors: Using different colors helps me organize my notes better and highlight important points.
- Reliability: I avoid pens that smudge easily or dry out quickly.
3. Highlighters and Markers
To emphasize key information, I rely on highlighters. My favorites are:
- Non-bleeding Ink: So my notes don’t get messy.
- Multiple Colors: Pastel shades are easier on the eyes and still stand out well.
- Fine Tips: For precise highlighting without covering entire lines.
4. Additional Accessories That Help Me Stay Organized
Beyond the basics, these supplies make my note-taking setup complete:
- Sticky Notes: Perfect for adding reminders or extra information without cluttering pages.
- Page Tabs: Help me quickly find important sections.
- Pen Holders or Cases: Keep all my writing tools together and easy to access.
- Rulers and Stencils: Useful for drawing neat lines and diagrams.
5. Digital vs. Traditional Supplies
While I love the tactile feel of paper, sometimes I use digital note-taking apps on my tablet with a stylus. If you’re considering digital options:
- Invest in a tablet with a responsive screen.
- Choose a stylus with good pressure sensitivity.
- Use apps that allow easy organization and syncing across devices.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best note-taking supplies is a personal journey. What works for me might differ for you, but focusing on quality, comfort, and organization will always enhance your note-taking. I recommend trying out a few different notebooks and pens to find your perfect match. Happy note-taking!
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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