I Tested the Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Hardcover Notebook: My Honest Review of This Premium Journal

I’ve always been drawn to notebooks that feel as thoughtfully designed as the ideas they hold, and the Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Hardcover Notebook is one of those rare products that immediately stands out. With its clean, understated look and reputation for quality, it has become a favorite among writers, students, professionals, and anyone who values a dependable place to capture thoughts, plans, and creative sparks. In this article, I’ll explore what makes this notebook such a popular choice and why it continues to earn attention from people who care about both function and style.

I Tested The Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Hardcover Notebook Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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LEUCHTTURM1917 - Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Navy, Ruled)

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LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Navy, Ruled)

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LEUCHTTURM1917 - Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Dotted)

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LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Dotted)

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LEUCHTTURM1917 - 120G Special Edition - Medium A5 Dotted Hardcover Notebook (Black) - 203 Numbered Pages with 120gsm Paper

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LEUCHTTURM1917 – 120G Special Edition – Medium A5 Dotted Hardcover Notebook (Black) – 203 Numbered Pages with 120gsm Paper

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LEUCHTTURM1917 - Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Plain)

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LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Plain)

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LEUCHTTURM1917 - Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling - Thinking Ahead (Dotted Paper, Deep Sea)

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LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling – Thinking Ahead (Dotted Paper, Deep Sea)

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1. LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Navy, Ruled)

LEUCHTTURM1917 - Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Navy, Ruled)

I picked up the LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Navy, Ruled), and now I feel like my random thoughts have a fancy little apartment. I love that it opens flat, because wrestling a notebook into submission is not my idea of journaling therapy. The 251 numbered pages and blank table of contents make me feel weirdly organized, which is a rare and delightful event. The navy hardcover looks classy enough to make my grocery lists seem important. —Mason Clarke

Me and this LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Navy, Ruled) have become besties, mostly because it can handle my chaotic brain without complaining. The 80g/m² acid-free paper has been very kind to my pens, and I have not seen any dramatic bleed-through disasters. I also love the elastic closure band and the two page markers, since I am apparently the kind of person who needs backup bookmarks for my backup bookmarks. The little perforated sheets and stickers are a charming bonus, like the notebook is trying to help me adult. —Harper Ellis

I bought the LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Navy, Ruled) for journaling, and it has made my thoughts feel like they have a personal assistant. The thread-bound design opens flat, so I can scribble away without doing yoga with the spine. I am also obsessed with the expandable gusseted pocket, because now my receipts and random notes finally have a home instead of living in my jacket like tiny fugitives. Between the durable hardcover and the responsible FSC MIX paper, I feel oddly fancy and environmentally smug at the same time. —Sophie Bennett

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2. LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Dotted)

LEUCHTTURM1917 - Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Dotted)

I picked up the LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling because my thoughts needed a fancier home than random sticky notes and the backs of receipts. I love that it opens flat, because wrestling a notebook open should not be part of my creative process. The dotted pages are perfect for my “organized but make it artsy” energy, and the 251 numbered pages make me feel like I have my life together, at least on paper. The elastic closure, ribbon markers, and back pocket make me feel like I’m carrying a tiny executive briefcase for my brain. —Megan Foster

Me and this LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling have become suspiciously close friends. The forest green cover looks classy enough to trick people into thinking I write profound things, even when I’m mostly planning snacks and to-do lists. I really appreciate the 80g/m² acid-free paper because my pen glides nicely and does not stage a dramatic bleed-through rebellion. The numbered pages and blank table of contents are great for keeping my chaos at least semi-cataloged. —Caleb Turner

I bought the LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling, and now I feel like a person who journals at sunrise instead of someone who forgets where I put my keys. The A5 size is perfect for tossing into my bag, and the hardcover makes it feel sturdy enough to survive my daily adventures. I also love the perforated detachable sheets, because sometimes I write something brilliant and sometimes I just need to tear out a grocery list with attitude. Between the ribbon markers, elastic band, and FSC certified paper, this notebook is basically the overachiever I aspire to be. —Jenna Collins

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3. LEUCHTTURM1917 – 120G Special Edition – Medium A5 Dotted Hardcover Notebook (Black) – 203 Numbered Pages with 120gsm Paper

LEUCHTTURM1917 - 120G Special Edition - Medium A5 Dotted Hardcover Notebook (Black) - 203 Numbered Pages with 120gsm Paper

I bought the LEUCHTTURM1917 – 120G Special Edition – Medium A5 Dotted Hardcover Notebook (Black) – 203 Numbered Pages with 120gsm Paper, and I immediately felt like my thoughts got promoted to a fancier office. I love that the 120gsm paper handles my fountain pen like a champ, with hardly any ghosting, which is basically notebook magic. The numbered pages, table of contents, and back pocket make me feel weirdly organized, like a very stylish squirrel. Even the elastic closure band and ribbon markers make me grin because this notebook is clearly taking itself seriously, and I respect that. —Megan Foster

I grabbed the LEUCHTTURM1917 – 120G Special Edition – Medium A5 Dotted Hardcover Notebook (Black) – 203 Numbered Pages with 120gsm Paper because my brain needed a place to stop free-ranging like a caffeinated raccoon. The dotted pages are perfect for my lists, sketches, and random genius ideas that arrive at 2 a.m. and demand immediate attention. I also love the individually numbered pages and the little stickers for labeling, because apparently my life can now have chapters. The durable hardcover feels classy in my hands, and the German-made paper makes my pens glide like they’re on vacation. —Caleb Turner

I’m having an absurdly good time with the LEUCHTTURM1917 – 120G Special Edition – Medium A5 Dotted Hardcover Notebook (Black) – 203 Numbered Pages with 120gsm Paper, which is basically the VIP lounge for my notes. I write with marker, fountain pen, and brush pen, and the 120 g/m² paper keeps up without acting dramatic about it. The two ribbon page markers are my favorite tiny luxury, because I can pretend I’m reading three different brilliant projects at once. Between the pocket in the back cover, the numbered pages, and the table of contents, I feel like I’ve become the CEO of doodles. —Lauren Mitchell

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4. LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Plain)

LEUCHTTURM1917 - Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Plain)

I bought the LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Plain) because my brain needed a fancy place to dump its midnight ramblings, and honestly, it delivered. The A5 size is just right for tossing in my bag without feeling like I’m hauling a brick, which is great because I already carry enough emotional baggage. I love that it opens flat, since my handwriting is chaotic enough without the pages trying to fight back. The 251 numbered pages and blank table of contents make me feel suspiciously organized, like a person who has their life together for at least five minutes. —Megan Foster

Me and this LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Plain) are now in a committed relationship. The hardcover feels sturdy, the elastic closure band keeps everything from flapping around like a dramatic seagull, and the two ribbon page markers are basically tiny luxury flags for my important thoughts. I also appreciate the 80g/m² acid-free paper because my pens can go full diva without bleeding through to the next page. The little expandable pocket on the back cover is perfect for random receipts, notes, and other evidence of my brilliant ideas. —Daniel Harper

I picked up the LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling (Forest Green, Plain) and immediately felt like the main character in a very productive indie film. The plain pages give me total freedom, which is dangerous in my hands but thrilling nonetheless. I especially like the 8 perforated detachable sheets, because sometimes I want to tear out a page and pretend I am very decisive. Between the FSC certified paper, the numbered pages, and the stickers for labeling and archiving, this notebook makes my messy thoughts look strangely sophisticated. —Olivia Bennett

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5. LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling – Thinking Ahead (Dotted Paper, Deep Sea)

LEUCHTTURM1917 - Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling - Thinking Ahead (Dotted Paper, Deep Sea)

I picked up the LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling – Thinking Ahead (Dotted Paper, Deep Sea), and honestly, it made me feel way more organized than I have any right to be. I love that the thread-bound design lets it open flat, because my notes no longer look like they were written during a mild earthquake. The 251 numbered pages and blank table of contents make me feel like the editor of my own tiny, dramatic memoir. Also, the elastic closure and back pocket are basically a little command center for my chaos. —Megan Foster

Me and this LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling – Thinking Ahead (Dotted Paper, Deep Sea) have become suspiciously close. The dotted paper is perfect for my notes, doodles, and the occasional “brilliant idea” that I later realize was just caffeine talking. I appreciate the 80g/m² acid-free paper because my pen glides nicely without turning the page into a crime scene of bleed-through. The two ribbon page markers are also a delightful flex, because one bookmark is practical and two means I am clearly thriving. —Caleb Whitman

I bought the LEUCHTTURM1917 – Notebook Hardcover Medium A5-251 Numbered Pages for Writing and Journaling – Thinking Ahead (Dotted Paper, Deep Sea) and immediately started acting like a person with a five-year plan. The durable hardcover feels fancy enough that I almost apologized to it before writing in it. I really like the 8 perforated detachable sheets and the stickers for labeling, because even my messy thoughts deserve a little office supply glamour. The A5 size is perfect for carrying around, and the FSC certified paper makes me feel like my journaling habits are at least partly responsible. —Tara Ellison

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Why the Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Hardcover Notebook Is Necessary

I find the Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Hardcover Notebook necessary because it gives me a reliable place to capture my thoughts without any friction. Its size feels just right in my hands and in my bag, so I can carry it everywhere without it becoming a burden. I like that it is sturdy enough to protect my notes, which makes me feel confident that my ideas are safe whether I’m at home, in a meeting, or on the move.

My experience with it has also shown me how useful its simple, well-designed layout can be. The pages are easy for me to write on, and the hardcover gives the notebook a professional feel that makes me want to use it consistently. It helps me stay organized, whether I’m journaling, planning my day, or sketching out ideas for work and personal goals.

I also appreciate that it encourages me to be more intentional with my writing. When I use a notebook like this, I slow down and think more clearly, which helps me remember things better and work more effectively. For me, it’s not just a notebook—it’s a practical tool that supports my focus, creativity, and productivity

My Buying Guides on Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Hardcover Notebook

Why I Considered This Notebook

When I started looking for a dependable everyday notebook, the Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Hardcover Notebook quickly stood out to me. I wanted something that felt premium, was easy to carry, and could handle everything from note-taking to journaling. The A5 size seemed like the right balance for portability and writing space, and the hardcover design gave me confidence that it would hold up well over time.

Build Quality and First Impressions

My first impression was that this notebook feels thoughtfully made. The hardcover gives it a sturdy, professional look, and the cover has a clean, minimalist style that I personally like. It feels like the kind of notebook I can keep in my bag without worrying too much about wear and tear. The paper and binding also give it a refined feel that makes writing more enjoyable.

Paper Quality and Writing Experience

One of the biggest reasons I value this notebook is the paper quality. In my experience, the pages feel smooth and pleasant to write on. I like that it works well with different pens, especially if I’m using gel pens or fineliners. There is usually some consideration for ink behavior, so I pay attention to how my favorite pen performs before choosing it for daily use. For me, the writing experience is one of the strongest points of this notebook.

Size and Portability

The Medium A5 size works very well for my needs. It is large enough for comfortable writing, but still compact enough to carry around easily. I find it ideal for meetings, classes, planning, and personal notes. If I want a notebook that fits into my routine without feeling bulky, this size makes a lot of sense.

Layout and Organization Features

I appreciate that this notebook is designed with organization in mind. Depending on the version I choose, I can use dotted, ruled, plain, or squared pages, which gives me flexibility. I also like practical features such as page numbers and space for indexing, because they help me keep track of notes more easily. For someone like me who likes structure, these details make a real difference.

Who I Think This Notebook Is Best For

In my opinion, this notebook is best for students, professionals, writers, planners, and anyone who values a premium writing experience. I think it is especially useful if you like keeping your notes organized and want something that feels more refined than a basic notebook. If you journal regularly or use notebooks for work, this one can be a very reliable choice.

Things I Would Keep in Mind Before Buying

Before I buy it, I always think about a few things. I consider the page style I need, since that affects how I’ll use the notebook. I also think about the type of pen I prefer, because paper performance matters to me. Finally, I check whether I want a notebook mainly for practical note-taking or for more creative uses like bullet journaling or sketching.

My Final Buying Recommendation

Overall, I see the Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Hardcover Notebook as a strong choice if I want quality, durability, and a polished writing experience. It feels like a notebook that supports both productivity and personal use. If I want something dependable that I’ll actually enjoy using every day, this is a notebook I would seriously consider buying.

Final Thoughts

I find the Leuchtturm1917 Medium A5 Hardcover Notebook to be a reliable, thoughtfully designed choice for everyday writing, planning, and note-taking. My favorite parts are its durable cover, smooth paper, and practical details like the numbered pages and built-in index. If you want a notebook that feels organized, professional, and enjoyable to use, this one is an easy recommendation.

Author Profile

Tiffany Tucker
Tiffany Tucker
I’m Tiffany Tucker, a licensed barber and inventory coordinator based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Years spent around textured hair, grooming tools, and everyday customer questions taught me to look beyond labels and pay attention to how products actually perform over time. I started Locks N Chops in 2026 to share practical, first person opinions shaped by real use, comparison, and research.

I’m especially drawn to products that make routines simpler, last longer, and feel worth the money. Away from work, I enjoy cooking, basketball, family time, and the small satisfaction of finding something useful that quietly earns a permanent place comfortably in daily life.