Best Sketchbooks of 2026

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 19, 2026

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Sketchbooks are essential for artists and designers who need a space to jot down their ideas and sketches. These books come in various sizes, paper types, and bindings to suit different preferences. Many sketchbooks are designed to be portable, making them perfect for artists on the go. Some sketchbooks have thick, high-quality paper that can handle a variety of mediums, including pencil, ink, and watercolor. Whether you're a professional artist or a hobbyist, a good sketchbook is a must-have tool for any creative project.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics Art Sketch Book 5.25" x 8.25" Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics Art Sketch Book 5.25" x 8.25"
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Strathmore 400 Series Sketch Pad Cover #TOP 2
Strathmore 400 Series Sketch Pad
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Soucolor 9" x 12" Sketch Book Cover #TOP 3
Soucolor 9" x 12" Sketch Book
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Sketchbooks

#TOP 1

Amazon Basics Art Sketch Book 5.25" x 8.25"

Amazon Basics
NH13021036B
Black
Amazon Basics Art Sketch Book 5.25" x 8.25" Cover
Amazon Basics Art Sketch Book, L Size 5.25" x 8.25", 72 Sheets, Sketch Pads for Drawing, Black

The Amazon Basics Sketch Book is designed with artists in mind, featuring 72 pages of high-quality, 200 G/M² paper perfect for all your drawing needs. You'll appreciate the sturdy hard cover that safeguards your artwork from damage, making it easy to carry wherever inspiration strikes. This sketchbook is compatible with various mediums, including watercolor paints and pencils, allowing you to explore your creativity without limits. Plus, the included bookmark ensures you can quickly find your place, keeping your artistic flow uninterrupted.

What We Like
Thick, high-quality paper
Perfect compact size
Sturdy cover with elastic closure
Good for various mediums
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Cover feels a bit flimsy
#TOP 2

Strathmore 400 Series Sketch Pad

455-8
White
5.5x8.5
Strathmore 400 Series Sketch Pad Cover
Strathmore 400 Series Sketch Pad, 5.5x8.5 inch, 100 Sheets - Artist Sketchbook for Drawing, Illustration, Art Class Students

The Strathmore Sketch Pad is designed for artists who seek quality and reliability. The heavyweight paper is perfect for various sketching projects, allowing you to draw without worrying about tearing or creasing. Its fine texture grips your pencil and charcoal beautifully, helping you achieve the desired results. Whether you're practicing with graphite, charcoal, or pastels, this sketch pad can handle it all. Plus, the micro-perforated sheets make it easy for you to remove your artwork cleanly, ensuring a professional finish every time.

What We Like
Excellent paper quality
Ideal for graphite and charcoal
Sturdy spiral binding
Great value for price
Works for beginners and experienced artists
What We Don't Like
Some marker bleed-through
Not best for professional projects
#TOP 3

Soucolor 9" x 12" Sketch Book

1-Pack
Black
Soucolor 9" x 12" Sketch Book Cover
Soucolor 9" x 12" Sketch Book, 100 Sheets Top Spiral Bound Sketchbook with Acid-Free 68lb/100gsm Drawing Paper, Art Sketch Pad for Kids, Adults & Artist, Professional Art Supplies for Beginners

Soucolor Sketch Book is a professional drawing pad that comes in a perfect size of 9 x 12 inches, with 100 sheets of acid-free, standard-weight 68lb/100gsm sketching paper that is suitable for all types of dry media. The top spiral binding allows for easy page-turning, and every page is micro-perforated for easy removal. The sketchbook is suitable for artists of all levels and is an excellent gift for those who enjoy sketching, drawing, illustrating, painting, writing, and creating art.

What We Like
Thick, high-quality paper
Large page size
Durable spiral binding
Portable and lightweight
Easy page removal
What We Don't Like
Thin cover
Occasional minor shipping damage
#TOP 4

FIXSMITH 9"x12" Acid-Free Spiral Sketch Book 4-Pack

SP912C-4PK
Black
9"x12"-4 Pack
FIXSMITH 9"x12" Acid-Free Spiral Sketch Book 4-Pack Cover
FIXSMITH 9"X12" Sketch Book | 400 Sheets (68 lb/100gsm) Sketchbook| 4 Pack (100 Sheets Each) |Acid Free Drawing Paper | Spiral Bound Sketchpad for Beginners,Artists & Professionals | Bright White

The FIXSMITH Spiral Sketchbook offers you 400 sheets of thick, acid-free paper that keeps your artwork vibrant and prevents smudging or fading over time. Its sturdy spiral binding lets you easily flip through pages and tear out your drawings cleanly thanks to perforated edges. Each sketchbook is compact and durable, measuring 9 by 12 inches, making it perfect for sketching on the go or at home. The fine texture of the paper works well with pencils, pens, charcoal, and pastels, giving you freedom to use a variety of dry media without worrying about damaging the surface. This sketchbook is ideal for both beginners and professionals looking for reliable drawing paper.

What We Like
Good paper quality
Sturdy and durable design
Great for drawing and coloring
Affordable price
Appropriate size
What We Don't Like
Somewhat thin pages
Occasional order errors
#TOP 5

Amazon Basics Sketch Pad 5.5"x8.5"

Amazon Basics
AP-04
White
5.5"x8.5"
Amazon Basics Sketch Pad 5.5"x8.5" Cover
Amazon Basics Sketch Pad for Artists, 67 lb. / 100 gsm, 100 Sheets, 5.5"x8.5", White

The Amazon Basics Sketch Pad is perfect for artists at any skill level, from beginners to professionals. Its smooth, fine-tooth surface is designed for dry media, making it great for drawing with charcoal, graphite, and colored pencils. You’ll appreciate the lightweight, acid-free material, which ensures that your artwork lasts over time without fading. The micro-perforated edges allow you to easily detach your creations without hassle. Plus, the sturdy double-spiral binding and heavy chipboard backing provide durability, so your sketches are well-supported as you work.

What We Like
Thick, high-quality paper
Sturdy spiral binding
Easy-to-remove perforated pages
Great value for price
Versatile for various media
What We Don't Like
Cardboard back could be stronger
Cover design is basic
#TOP 6

Sketch Book Top Spiral Bound Sketch Pad 100-Sheets

9*12sketch 1 pack
Brown
Sketch Book Top Spiral Bound Sketch Pad 100-Sheets Cover
Fuxi 9" x 12" Sketch Book, Top Spiral Bound Sketch Pad, 100 Sheets 68lb/100gsm Acid-Free Drawing Paper, Art Sketchbook for Drawing Pad for Kids Artists & Beginners Professional Art Supplies for Adults

This Sketch Book Top Spiral Bound Sketch Pad 100-Sheets is made of premium and durable material for all dry media including pencil, pen, pastels, charcoal, sketching sticks, gel pen and so on. The sketchbook has a convenient spiral bound design, which allows for better access to flipping the pages. The compact size with protective cover and acid-free & non-faded feature make it suitable for all skill levels, a perfect gift for drawing enthusiasts.

What We Like
Thick, sturdy paper
No bleed-through
Great for markers and paint
Solid, durable cover
Top-spiral binding option
What We Don't Like
Binding may be slightly messy
Paper texture not very fine
#TOP 7

KEVIN&SASA CRAFTS 8.5x11 Sketchbook

White
8.5x11 inches
KEVIN&SASA CRAFTS 8.5x11 Sketchbook Cover
8.5x11inches Hardbound Sketch Book, Spiral Bound Sketch Pad, 80-Sheets 90gsm Inner Paper, Acid Free Drawing Art Paper, Prefect Works with Kids and Adults

The KEVIN&SASA Sketchbook is designed for both kids and adults, making it ideal for all your sketching needs. Its durable spiral binding lets you easily detach sheets, allowing for flexible use. The high-quality 90gsm paper enhances your drawing experience, whether you're using pencils, pastels, or gel pens. With a large 8.5x11 inch size, you'll have plenty of space for creativity. Plus, the waterproof hardcover protects your artwork, ensuring it lasts. This sketchbook is perfect for anyone looking to express their artistic side.

What We Like
Thick, textured sketch paper
Durable hardback cover
Good value for price
Portable and lightweight
Ample pages for sketching
What We Don't Like
Minor paper smudging
Wearing corners
#TOP 8

Forvencer 2 Pack Hardcover Spiral Sketchbooks 8x5.6

FCA0545-6001A
Green
Forvencer 2 Pack Hardcover Spiral Sketchbooks 8x5.6 Cover
Forvencer 2 Pack Blank Spiral Notebook, 8"x 5.6"Hardcover Sketch Book, 100GSM Thick Paper, Art Sketchbook for Women & Adult, 2 x 100 pages Drawing Book Journal for School Office Drawing, Green

The Forvencer Spiral Sketchbooks offer a durable design with a waterproof hardcover that keeps your drawings safe and allows for long-lasting use. The strong twin ring binding helps you flip pages smoothly, making it easy to work on your art without interruptions. With 100 GSM thick paper, these sketchbooks prevent ink from bleeding and smudging, so your artwork stays clean and sharp. Each book has 100 pages and a lay-flat design, giving you plenty of space to draw comfortably whether you're at home, school, or on the go. These sketchbooks are perfect for anyone who enjoys sketching or doodling anytime, anywhere.

What We Like
Thick, bleed-resistant paper
Portable, compact size
Vibrant, attractive covers
Spiral binding, easy page turning
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Paper thinner than expected
Not premium sketchbook thickness
#TOP 9

Canson Artist Series Hardbound Sketchbook 11x14

C100510419
11"X14"
Canson Artist Series Hardbound Sketchbook 11x14 Cover
Canson Artist Series Sketchbook, Hardbound Journal, 11x14 inches, 184 Pages (65lb/96g) - Artist Paper for Adults and Students - Graphite, Charcoal, Pencil, Colored Pencil

The Canson Artist Sketchbook offers a durable stitch binding that keeps the book lying flat, making it easier for you to draw without any awkward bumps or folds. Its finely textured paper is perfect for pencil work and also works well with charcoal, giving you a versatile surface for different mediums. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to erase mistakes on this paper, which helps keep your artwork clean and precise. Plus, the smudge-resistant quality means your work stays neat even as you blend or shade. This sketchbook is designed to support your creative process smoothly and comfortably.

What We Like
Sturdy hardbound construction
Excellent erasability
Good for graphite and ink
Affordable price
Versatile for writing or art
What We Don't Like
Paper buckles with heavy washes
Page count description slightly confusing
#TOP 10

SuFly Spiral Sketchbook Pack of 2

SL2585L02
Green
SuFly Spiral Sketchbook Pack of 2 Cover
SuFly Small Sketch Book 5.5"x8.5", 2-Pack Mini Sketchbook, Spiral Bound Sketchbook Hardcover with 200 Sheets of 68lb/100gsm Mini Drawing Pad Paper, Small Sketch Pads for Drawing for Adults & Kids.

SuFly Spiral Sketchbook Pack of 2 is a set of high-quality sketchbooks designed for artists. The set consists of two sketchbooks with 100 sheets each, made of acid-free and PH-neutral paper that is perfect for dry media such as graphite, charcoal, and pencil. The sketchbook has a durable and sturdy hardcover design on the front and back, making it easy to draw anywhere. The sketchbook also has a convenient ring binding design that provides better access to easily flip the pages and allows you to easily remove pages when required. The drawing paper pad is a great gift for professional artists, art students, graffiti enthusiasts, and more.

What We Like
Sturdy hardcover
Thick, quality paper
Spiral binding
Good for pencils and ink
Spacious drawing area
What We Don't Like
Binding occasionally sticks
Paper thin for heavy markers
Buying Guide Image

The Best Sketchbooks You Should Consider

Choosing the Right Sketchbook for Your Needs

When it comes to artistic endeavors, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference. This is especially true when it comes to choosing a sketchbook. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming trying to pick the right one for your needs. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect sketchbook for your next masterpiece.

Consider the Size

One of the first things to consider when choosing a sketchbook is the size. Sketchbooks come in a range of sizes, from small pocket-sized books to large, more expansive options. If you plan on taking your sketchbook with you on the go, a smaller size may be more convenient. However, if you prefer to work on larger pieces, a larger sketchbook may be a better option.

Think About the Paper Quality

The type of paper used in a sketchbook can have a big impact on the final result of your artwork. High-quality paper will be smoother and more receptive to a variety of media, while lower-quality paper may be more prone to tearing or buckling. Consider the medium you plan on using, and choose a sketchbook with paper that is suited to your needs.

Determine Your Budget

Sketchbooks can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. Before making a purchase, determine how much you are willing to spend. Keep in mind that higher-quality sketchbooks may be more expensive, but they may also be worth the investment if you plan on using your sketchbook frequently.

Decide on the Type of Binding

Another important factor to consider when choosing a sketchbook is the type of binding. Spiral-bound sketchbooks allow for easy flipping through pages and can be laid flat for easy drawing. Glue-bound sketchbooks are more traditional and offer a more formal feel, but pages cannot be easily removed. Consider your personal preferences and the intended use of the sketchbook when making a decision on the binding.

Look for Additional Features

Some sketchbooks come with additional features that may be useful to you. For example, some sketchbooks have perforated pages, allowing you to easily remove your artwork for framing or display. Others may have a hardcover for added protection, or even a built-in pencil case. Consider these additional features when making your decision.

In conclusion, choosing the right sketchbook for your needs can be a daunting task. However, by considering the size, paper quality, budget, binding, and additional features, you can find the perfect sketchbook to bring your artistic visions to life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a sketch pad and a sketchbook?

The main difference between a sketch pad and a sketchbook lies in their binding. A sketch pad is typically bound at the top, while sketchbooks have a cover and are bound in the back.

2. Are spiral or bound sketchbooks better?

Both spiral and bound sketchbooks have their advantages. Spiral bound sketchbooks can add bulk and may snag when pulled out of a bag, although some have wire ends crimped inside the coil to prevent catching. On the other hand, tape-bound sketchbooks have a square spine and a more durable binding, but it may not be as strong as perfect-bound books.

3. How do I choose a sketchbook?

When choosing a sketchbook, consider factors like size, binding and cover type, orientation, and paper quality. Size should be based on your preferences and needs. The binding and cover should suit how and where you plan to use the sketchbook. Orientation can be chosen according to your style. Finally, pay attention to the paper quality, which is crucial for a good sketching experience.

4. Do you need a stylus for sketchbook?

While not necessary, using a stylus or an input device can enhance your experience with SketchBook on desktop or mobile. You can try SketchBook with devices like a Wacom tablet, iPad Pro, or various styluses available in the market. There are many options to choose from depending on your preferences and budget.

5. Is it better to have a big or small sketchbook?

Having both a small pocket sketchbook for quick sketches on-the-go and a larger sketchbook for dedicated sketching outings can be beneficial. The small size is convenient to carry everywhere for spontaneous sketches, while the larger sketchbook allows for more detailed work during planned sketching sessions.

Editor's Notes

During our sketchbook research, we found 26 sketchbook products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 291,851 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sketchbooks list. We found that most customers choose sketchbooks with an average price of $15.85.

The sketchbooks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sketchbooks, including Strathmore, Soucolor, FIXSMITH, Fuxi, KEVIN&SASA CRAFTS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.

Sketchbooks Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon Basics Strathmore Soucolor FIXSMITH Amazon Basics Fuxi KEVIN&SASA CRAFTS Forvencer Canson SuFly
Color Black White Black Black White Brown White Green - Green
Material Paper Paper Cardstock, Paper Paper Cardstock Paper Paper - Paper Paper
Sheet Size 5.25" x 8.25" Inches 5.5 x 8.5 inches 9 X 12 inches 9x12 inch 5.5 x 8.5 inches 9 x 12 inches 8.5-x-11-inch Inches - 11 x 14 inches 5.5 x 8.5 Inches
Paper Finish Watercolor Uncoated Watercolor Texture Laid Smooth Matte Uncoated - Watercolor Ultra Smooth
Sheet Count - 100 100 400 - 100 80 - 90 200
Paper Weight - 7 70 90 - 70 90 - 65 70
Unit Count - 1.0 Count 100.0 Count 400.0 Count - 100.0 Count 80.0 Count - 90.0 Count 2 Count
Item Weight - 11.52 ounces 100 Grams 1 Pounds - 100 Grams 0.74 Kilograms - 16 ounces 100 Grams
Style - 100 Sheets Spiral 9x12 inch sketch book 400 sheets - Hard Cover, Spiral Basic - - Chinese
Paper Dimensions - 5.5 x 8.5 inches - 9x12 inches - 9 x 12 inches 8.5 x 11 inches - 11 x 14 inches 5.5 x 8.5 inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
Where to Buy