Moleskine vs Leuchtturm Notebook: The Ultimate Comparison for 2025 (Paper, Features & Price)

The Moleskine vs Leuchtturm notebook debate has captivated writers, students, artists, and professionals for years. These two legendary brands dominate the premium notebook market, known for their exceptional craftsmanship and timeless appeal. Choosing between them can be challenging, as both offer unique qualities that cater to different writing preferences, aesthetics, and lifestyles. In the UK, where journaling and stationery culture continue to grow, this comparison is more relevant than ever in 2025.

For many, Moleskine evokes a sense of nostalgia and creativity. Inspired by the legendary notebooks once used by great artists like Picasso and Hemingway, it carries a romantic legacy that fuels imagination. Leuchtturm1917, on the other hand, is celebrated for its precision, functionality, and superior paper quality. While Moleskine appeals to minimalists who love elegance, Leuchtturm1917 attracts organised thinkers who crave structure and performance. Let’s explore which one is truly the better choice for UK buyers.

Brand Background: Two Legends of Stationery

Moleskine’s story begins in the heart of Europe, where it was created to replicate the notebooks used by famous creatives. The brand quickly became a cultural icon, symbolising artistry, freedom of expression, and wanderlust. Its sleek design and portable size make it a favourite among writers and travellers who want a notebook that inspires creativity wherever they go. Moleskine’s branding is not just about paper — it’s about a lifestyle centred on imagination and expression.

Leuchtturm1917, a German brand established over a century ago, brings a completely different philosophy to the Moleskine vs Leuchtturm notebook debate. Known for precision and meticulous design, it focuses on usability and organisation. Every detail of a Leuchtturm notebook — from numbered pages to its table of contents — is carefully thought out. This attention to detail has made it a top choice for bullet journalists and professionals who value order and quality in their stationery.

Design and Build Quality Comparison

Design plays a major role when deciding between Moleskine and Leuchtturm1917. Moleskine notebooks feature a smooth, matte cover available in both hard and soft options. The minimalist aesthetic, rounded corners, and slim profile give it a sophisticated look. It’s perfect for slipping into a backpack or briefcase, and the elastic closure ensures it stays neatly shut. Moleskine’s lightweight build makes it ideal for travel, quick note-taking, or everyday journaling.

Leuchtturm1917 offers a slightly different feel. Its cover is textured and more robust, creating a durable exterior that can withstand daily wear and tear. The binding is stronger, allowing the notebook to lay completely flat on a surface — a huge advantage for writers and artists. The two ribbon markers, back pocket, and colour variety give Leuchtturm1917 a premium yet practical edge. In the Moleskine vs Leuchtturm notebook design battle, Leuchtturm stands out for functionality, while Moleskine wins in elegance and portability.

Paper Quality and Writing Experience

The biggest distinction in the Moleskine vs Leuchtturm notebook comparison lies in paper quality. Moleskine typically uses 70–80gsm paper, which feels smooth but is relatively thin. It’s perfect for pencil, ballpoint, and gel pens, but heavy ink users may experience ghosting or slight bleed-through. The off-white, creamy tone adds warmth to the page, enhancing readability and giving a vintage aesthetic that appeals to traditional writers.

Leuchtturm1917, on the other hand, uses thicker paper ranging from 80–100gsm. This makes it a top contender for fountain pen users and artists who use markers or ink pens. The paper has a subtle chamois hue that reduces glare, offering a comfortable writing experience even after long hours. The surface texture allows ink to dry quickly, preventing smudging. For anyone who values smooth, bleed-resistant paper, Leuchtturm1917 clearly takes the lead.

Features and Functionality

When it comes to functionality, Leuchtturm1917 is the notebook of choice for planners and bullet journal enthusiasts. It includes numbered pages, an index, perforated sheets, and two ribbon bookmarks — thoughtful features that make it easy to organise notes. The inner pocket provides space for receipts or small papers, and the sturdy elastic band keeps everything secure. The brand’s attention to usability transforms it from a simple notebook into a powerful productivity tool.

Moleskine, in contrast, embraces simplicity. It focuses on elegance rather than extra features, providing a classic experience free from distractions. You’ll find one ribbon bookmark, a rear pocket, and the signature “In case of loss” label inside the cover. While it may lack the organisational features of Leuchtturm1917, Moleskine appeals to purists who see note-taking as an art rather than a task. In the Moleskine vs Leuchtturm notebook comparison, the choice depends on whether you value minimalism or multifunctionality.

Price, Availability, and Value for Money in the UK

Both Moleskine and Leuchtturm1917 are widely available across the UK, from retailers such as WHSmith, Paperchase, and Amazon. Prices vary depending on size and style, but Moleskine tends to be slightly more expensive due to its brand prestige. Its reputation as a creative classic justifies the price for those seeking a stylish, well-known notebook with global recognition.

Leuchtturm1917 provides exceptional value for money thanks to its high-quality paper and additional features. Many UK buyers appreciate the longevity and functionality it offers at a similar or lower cost than Moleskine. For professionals, students, and bullet journalists, Leuchtturm1917 is often seen as the more practical investment in the Moleskine vs Leuchtturm notebook debate.

Verdict: Moleskine vs Leuchtturm Notebook – The Final Word

When all factors are considered, the Moleskine vs Leuchtturm notebook contest has no universal winner — it depends entirely on personal preference. Moleskine offers tradition, elegance, and artistic charm, making it ideal for writers, dreamers, and travellers. Its simplicity and design evoke inspiration, and its lighter paper adds to the classic experience of writing by hand.

Leuchtturm1917, however, dominates in quality and functionality. Its thick paper, numbered pages, and well-thought-out features make it a superb tool for organised thinkers. For UK buyers who rely on their notebooks for journaling, planning, or sketching, Leuchtturm1917 provides better long-term value. Ultimately, both notebooks celebrate the art of writing — each in its own distinctive way.

Conclusion

In the ongoing Moleskine vs Leuchtturm notebook discussion, both brands stand as symbols of excellence in stationery. Moleskine appeals to those who cherish simplicity, heritage, and timeless design, while Leuchtturm1917 offers innovation, durability, and practical features. Your choice depends on how you use your notebook — as a creative canvas or as a structured journal. Either way, both brands will elevate your writing experience in 2025 and beyond.

FAQs

Which notebook is better for fountain pens?
Leuchtturm1917 performs better for fountain pens due to its thicker, ink-resistant paper.

Is Moleskine better for travel and portability?
Yes, Moleskine’s lightweight and flexible design makes it perfect for carrying on the go.

Where can I buy these notebooks in the UK?
Both brands are sold through Amazon UK, WHSmith, Paperchase, and many stationery boutiques.

Which is better for bullet journaling?
Leuchtturm1917 is the preferred choice for bullet journaling, thanks to its index and numbered pages.

Are both brands sustainable?
Yes, both brands use FSC-certified paper and continue to improve eco-friendly manufacturing practices.

Which offers better value for money?
Leuchtturm1917 provides more features and thicker paper for a similar price, making it a great long-term choice.

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