Best Steno Pads of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Steno pads are a must-have for anyone who needs to take organized and efficient notes. These pads are specifically designed with a narrow format, making them perfect for taking notes during meetings, lectures, or interviews. They are typically spiral-bound and come with perforated pages that can be easily torn off when needed. The unique design of steno pads allows users to take notes quickly and efficiently, with the ability to separate main points from additional details. Additionally, they are available in a range of sizes, making them suitable for various needs and preferences. Whether you're a student, journalist, or professional, steno pads are an essential tool for taking notes on-the-go.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics Steno Books (12-pack) Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics Steno Books (12-pack)
ftb score rating icon 9.9
TOPS Spiral Steno Books, 6" x 9", Gregg Rule White Paper Cover #TOP 2
TOPS Spiral Steno Books, 6" x 9", Gregg Rule White Paper
ftb score rating icon 9.8
STAPLES White Paper Steno Pads Cover #TOP 3
STAPLES White Paper Steno Pads
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Steno Pads

#TOP 1

Amazon Basics Steno Books (12-pack)

Amazon Basics
AMZ8021
Green
Amazon Basics Steno Books (12-pack) Cover
Amazon Basics Steno Books, Gregg Rule, Green Paper, 80 Sheets, 6" x 9", 12-Pack

The Amazon Basics Steno Books (12-pack) are perfect for everyday use, including shopping lists and meeting notes. The Gregg rule with 11/32-inch spacing and blue horizontal lines, as well as a single red vertical line make it easy to take organized notes. The snag-free top coil keeps everything neatly together, while the green tinted paper reduces eye strain, and perforated sheets detach easily. Measuring 6 by 9 inches, this product is convenient and practical for everyday use.

What We Like
Quality paper
Good price
Convenient size
Durable binding
Easy on the eyes
What We Don't Like
Minor bleedthrough with gel ink
#TOP 2

TOPS Spiral Steno Books, 6" x 9", Gregg Rule White Paper

Tops
80220
White
6" x 9"
TOPS Spiral Steno Books, 6" x 9", Gregg Rule White Paper Cover
TOPS Spiral Steno Books, 6" x 9", Gregg Rule White Paper, Assorted Covers, 80 Sheets per Book/4 Books per Pack (80220)

The TOPS Spiral Steno Books come in a 4 pack with durable covers in red, black, blue, and green. The no-snag coil resists catching on papers or clothing. Each book measures 6" x 9" and has 80 sheets of Gregg ruled white paper. The acid-free paper ensures longevity. Proudly made in the USA, these steno pads are perfect for everyday use.

What We Like
Excellent paper quality
Great value for price
Durable and long-lasting
Variety of colors available
Easy to write on
What We Don't Like
Not sturdy for standing use
#TOP 3

STAPLES White Paper Steno Pads

STAPLES
18584
White
12/Pack
STAPLES White Paper Steno Pads Cover
Staples White Paper Steno Pads, Gregg Ruled, 6" x 9", 12/Pack

Introducing the STAPLES Steno Pads, the perfect solution for all your office note-taking and shorthand needs. With a convenient sheet size of 6" x 9" and 80 sheets per pad, these pads are designed to provide ample space for your notes. Whether you're jotting down important information during meetings or taking shorthand for quick and efficient note-taking, these pads are ideal for any office setting. The 15lb/56gsm paper ensures durability and reliability, so you can trust that your notes will remain intact. With a dozen pads per pack, you'll always have a steady supply on hand. Upgrade your note-taking experience with the STAPLES Steno Pads and enjoy the convenience and efficiency they bring to your workday.

What We Like
Good price for ten pack
Comparable quality to name brands
Crisp white paper quality
Useful for note-taking
Durable spiral top design
What We Don't Like
Back cardboard is flexible
#TOP 4

Better Office Products Spiral Steno Pads

25810
Assorted
Better Office Products Spiral Steno Pads Cover
Better Office Products Spiral Steno Pads, 10 Pack, 6 x 9 inches, 80 Sheets, White Paper, Gregg Rule, Assorted Pastel Color Covers, 10 Steno Notebooks

Better Office Steno Pads are a convenient choice for your note-taking needs. With a 10 pack of 6 x 9 inch steno pads, you'll have plenty of space to jot down your thoughts and ideas. The front covers come in 5 pastel colors, allowing you to color code your projects or subjects for easy identification. The pads feature Gregg ruled pages with 11/32 inch spacing between lines and a single vertical line down each page. The top spiral binding ensures that the pages lay flat, providing a comfortable writing experience for both right-handed and left-handed users. The reinforced covers add durability to the pads, making them ideal for school, home, or office use.

What We Like
Good for note-taking
Variety of pastel colors
Good quality for everyday use
Lightweight and portable
What We Don't Like
Paper weight is lighter
Pen doesn't glide as easily
#TOP 5

Better Office Products Spiral Steno Pads

25812
Clear87
Better Office Products Spiral Steno Pads Cover
Better Office Products Spiral Steno Pads, 12 Pack, 6 x 9 inches, 80 Sheets, White Paper, Gregg Rule, Assorted Solid Colors (Red, Black, Blue, Green), 12 Steno Notebooks

Better Steno Pads by Better Office Products come in a 12-pack with front covers in red, blue, black, and green, allowing you to color code your projects or subjects. The pads are Gregg ruled with 11/32 inch spacing between lines and feature 80 sheets/160 pages. The top spiral binding ensures comfortable writing for both right-handed and left-handed users, and the snag-free design prevents catching on clothing or backpacks. Each pad also has reinforced paperboard covers for durability.

What We Like
Great price
High quality paper
Durable for archiving
Perfect for note-taking
Quick delivery
What We Don't Like
Flimsy cardboard backer
Average paper quality
#TOP 6

Oxford Steno Spiral Notebooks

1007112
Asst. Pastel
Oxford Steno Spiral Notebooks Cover
Oxford Steno Spiral Notebooks, Top Bound Steno Pads, 6x9 Inches, Gregg Ruled for Lists, White Paper, Asst. Pastel Covers, 80 Sheets, 6 Pack (1007112)

The Oxford Steno Pads come in a convenient six-pack with a variety of pastel covers. Each notebook features 80 double-sided sheets, giving you a total of 160 pages, perfect for jotting down notes or lists. The unique Gregg ruling on each page, with a central red line, helps you organize your thoughts into two distinct sections. Designed for portability, these 6x9-inch top-bound notebooks are also great for left-handed users. Plus, the no-snag coil ensures that your notes won't get caught on anything, allowing for easy writing anywhere you go.

What We Like
Durable pages
Great quality
Variety of colors
Easy to organize notes
Good for to-do lists
What We Don't Like
Thin paper
Smaller size
#TOP 7

Enday Steno Pads 6 x 9 inches

2070
Enday Steno Pads 6 x 9 inches Cover
Enday Steno Pads Spiral 6 x 9 inches, Gregg Rule White Paper, 80 Sheets Steno Notebook for writing in Pink, Purple, Green, Blue, Red, Grey, Color May Vary (3 Pack)

The Enday Steno Pads are designed for smooth writing, featuring premium paper that allows your notes to flow effortlessly. The sturdy backing provides solid support, making it easier to write anywhere. With ink bleed resistance, you can confidently use various writing instruments, from gel pens to highlighters. The classic flip-top design gives you quick access to your notes, while the compact size fits perfectly in your backpack or purse. These steno pads are not just functional; they also come in vibrant colors, allowing you to easily organize your projects or subjects.

What We Like
Good quality paper
Sturdy and durable pads
Affordable pricing
Bright paper with crisp lines
Convenient size for portability
What We Don't Like
Delivery issues with previous order
#TOP 8

National Brand Steno Notebook with Brown Board Cover

36646-12
Brown
60 sheets
National Brand Steno Notebook with Brown Board Cover Cover
National Brand Steno Notebook with Brown Board Cover, Green Eye-Ease Paper, Gregg Ruled, 6" x 9", 12 Notebooks with 60 Sheets Each (36646-12)

This 12-pack of steno pads features a specific Gregg ruling with a center line and top spiral binding, making it easy to take notes and flip the cover for writing ease. Each pad contains 60 sheets and measures 6 x 9 inches, making it the perfect size to carry with you wherever you go.

What We Like
Perfect size for quick notes
Good quality paper
Convenient spiral binding
Affordable price
Durable enough for casual use
What We Don't Like
Thin covers may lack sturdiness
Soft back cover support
#TOP 9

SUNEE Steno Pads 6x9 6 Pack

White
SUNEE Steno Pads 6x9 6 Pack Cover
SUNEE Steno Pads 6x9 6 Pack, Gregg Rule, 60 Sheets, 6 Assorted Color Spiral Notebook 6x9, White Paper, Take Notes with Top Spiral Notebook, for School, University, College, Work, Office

SUNEE Steno Pads are a set of 6 spiral notebooks that come in 6 different colors, making them versatile and convenient for various situations. Each color represents a unique purpose or topic, allowing you to easily distinguish and locate your notes and contents. With 80 sheets/160 pages per pack, these steno pads offer great value for money. The inner pages feature Gregg rule with 11/32-inch line spacing, providing a readable and structured format for recording important points, organizing study notes, and writing daily to-do lists. The top spiral binding allows the pages to lay completely flat, ensuring a smooth writing experience. The handy size and design make these steno pads easy to carry, fitting perfectly in your hands or bag, so you never miss any of your thoughts, inspirations, sketches, and tasks.

What We Like
Soft pastel colors
Sturdy construction
Perfect size
Good price
High-quality paper
What We Don't Like
Back board flexibility
#TOP 10

National Steno Notebook with Brown Board Cover

National
RED36646
Brown
6 x 9 inches
National Steno Notebook with Brown Board Cover Cover
Rediform Wirebound Steno Notebook - 60 Sheets - Wire Bound Light Blue Margin - 16 lb Basis Weight - 6" x 9" - Green Paper - Brown Cover - Unpunched, Subject - 1Each

This top-bound steno notebook is perfect for those who need to take notes quickly and efficiently. The brown board cover gives it a professional look, while the Gregg 26 ruled pages with center line make it easy to keep your notes organized. The notebook contains 60 sheets of Green Eye-Ease paper which is easy on the eyes, and the 6 x 9 inch size makes it convenient to carry around.

What We Like
Convenient for quick notes
High-quality, easy-on-the-eyes pages
Great for transferring to digital later
Ideal for various projects
What We Don't Like
Thin, floppy covers
Lacks stiff back support
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why are steno pads green?

Steno pads are green in color to help ink and marker stand out for better readability. The green tint, along with the Gregg-rule format that allows for two columns of notes, makes it easier to distinguish and organize information. Additionally, steno pads often have a no-snag coil design for easy flipping through pages without tearing or catching.

2. What size is a steno notepad?

A steno notepad typically has dimensions of 6" × 9" (15cm × 23cm) and contains 80 pages per book. This size provides a compact and portable option for note-taking and keeping information organized.

3. What is Gregg ruled steno pad?

A Gregg ruled steno pad refers to a steno pad that has paper with Gregg ruling. The Gregg ruled format is ideal for outlining notes and creating lists. These steno pads typically have a top-wired binding that keeps the pages together and allows for easy flipping through the sheets to find information. Some steno pads also come with cardstock covers to protect the notes.

4. Why do steno notebooks have a line down the middle?

Steno notebooks have a line down the middle, known as Gregg ruling, for practicality and organization. The line separates the paper into two sections, allowing the note-taker to write across the entire sheet or use the sections separately for taking detailed notes, jotting down terminology, or creating lists. This feature helps in efficient note-taking and categorization of information.

5. Why do steno pads have a line down the middle?

The line down the middle of a steno pad serves a practical purpose. It helps the note-taker quickly and efficiently write without having to travel unnecessarily across the page. This saves time and makes the steno pad more practical to use, especially for those who need to take notes quickly and stay organized.

Editor's Notes

During our steno pad research, we found 25 steno pad products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 101,548 customer reviews through our big data system to write the steno pads list. We found that most customers choose steno pads with an average price of $17.92.

The steno pads are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of steno pads, including Tops, STAPLES, Better Office Products, Oxford, Enday. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Steno Pads Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon Basics Tops STAPLES Better Office Products Better Office Products Oxford Enday Rediform SUNEE National
Theme Book Book Book Book Book Book Book Book Book Book
Ruling Type Ruled Gregg Gregg Gregg Squared Gregg Ruled Gregg Ruled Ruled
Special Feature Soft cover perforated_pages Soft cover Soft cover Soft cover Soft cover Soft cover Soft cover Soft cover Spiral binding
Color Green White White Assorted Clear87 Asst. Pastel - Brown White Brown
Sheet Size 6 x 9 inches 6 x 9 6 inches x 9 inches 6 x 9 inches 6 x 9 inches 6" x 9" - 6 x 9 inches 6 inches 9L X 6W inches
Style gregg Classic Spiral minimalist minimalist Compact - 12 Pack 6 Pack Single
Pages 80 Pages 80 Pages 80 Pages - 160 160 Pages - 60 160 Pages 60 Pages
Cover Material Cardboard Paper Cardboard Paper Paper Cardboard Cardboard Board - -
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 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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