Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Sketchbooks Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Small Spaces
- 3. Best Heavy-Duty
- 4. Best Splurge
- 5. Best Lightweight
- 6. Best Design
- 7. Most Versatile
- 8. Best Compact
- Sketchbooks Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Sketchbooks
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best sketchbook under 100 can be tricky. The Soucolor Sketch Book is our top pick. It measures 9 x 12 inches and includes 100 sheets of premium artist drawing paper. For those looking to save, the KEVIN&SASA CRAFTS Hardbound Sketch Book has 80 sheets and a smaller size of 8.5 x 11 inches. You’ll give up some paper quantity and size to save money.
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The Top 8
These are the strongest picks that come in under $100, cheapest first.
Top 8 Sketchbooks Reviewed in Detail
Below, we go into the best options for your needs.
1. Editor’s Choice
Amazon Basics Art Sketch Book for Drawing and Painting, Thick Paper, 5.25" x 8.25", 72 Sheets, Black
- HIGH-QUALITY PAPER: This sketchbook for drawing features 72 pages of 200 G/M² paper that is ideal for doodling, drawing, and more. FSC-CERTIFIED Sketchbooks & Notebooks (FSC N004130): Made with materials from well-managed forests, recycled materials, and/or other controlled wood sources
- RUGGED PROTECTION: The sturdy hard cover drawing book protects your sketches and artwork from damage, making it ideal for carrying in a backpack or bag
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This art sketchbook works seamlessly with watercolor paints and pencils, thanks to its pigmented, rubber-compatible paper designed to handle various artistic media
- CONVENIENT ACCESS: The drawing pad comes with a matching bookmark to help you quickly find your place, making it easy to keep your creativity flowing without interruption
- LARGE SIZE DESIGN: This large sketchbook measures 5.25″ x 8.25″, providing ample space for your artistic expression while remaining portable
The Soucolor Sketch Book is the top choice for anyone looking for the best sketchbook under 100. Its premium drawing paper is perfect for artists of all skill levels. With a size of 9 x 12 inches and 100 sheets, it offers plenty of space for creativity. Compared to other picks, it provides more sheets and a larger surface area, making it great for detailed work. However, it may be bulkier for travel compared to smaller options.
Pros
- Includes 100 sheets of premium drawing paper.
- Size of 9 x 12 inches allows for larger art projects.
- Good texture for sketching and drawing.
Cons
- Bulky for travel or small spaces.
- May be too large for quick sketches.
- Not ideal for watercolor or heavy ink.
Best for: Artists seeking a large sketch surface. Not ideal for: Those needing a portable option.
This is an excellent choice for serious artists looking for a substantial sketchbook.
2. Best for Small Spaces
DSTELIN 2 Pack Hardcover Sketchbooks (100 GSM Sketch Paper), 7.5×5.1 Inch Spiral Sketch Book for Sketching, Drawing, Painting, 50 Sheets per Pack, Pink and…
- Sketchbook Set Dimensions: Two sketchbooks, each measuring 7.5 by 5.1 inches and containing 50 sheets of 100gsm acid-free paper, are suitable for artists on the go.
- Textured Paper for Artistic Needs: Our 100gsm paper provides a smooth texture, not easily tearing or creasing.
- Spiral Binding for Flow: The spiral binding facilitates easy page turning and flat laying, offering a smooth drawing experience and convenient sheet removal.
- Versatile Media Compatibility: Compatible with a variety of dry media including pencils, pens, crayons, charcoal, pastels, and sketch sticks, meeting diverse artistic preferences.
- Covers for Personal Expression: These sketchbooks feature a clean, visually appealing design, making them a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
The Fuxi 9 x 12 Sketch Book is excellent for small spaces and is our second pick. Its premium 68lb paper can handle a variety of dry media, including colored pencils and charcoal. This sketchbook provides a bright white surface, making it easy to erase and blend. Compared to the Soucolor, it has slightly less paper quality but is easier to handle in tight spaces. One downside is that its size may not be sufficient for artists who prefer larger canvases.
Pros
- 100 sheets of 68lb/100gsm paper for dry media.
- Bright white diagonal-tooth surface for easy erasing.
- Compact 9 x 12 size is good for smaller workspaces.
Cons
- Not suitable for wet media like watercolor.
- Less premium feel compared to higher-end brands.
- Limited to dry media, which may restrict some artists.
Best for: Artists who work in smaller spaces. Not ideal for: Those who use wet media.
This is the perfect choice for artists with limited space who need a reliable sketchbook.
3. Best Heavy-Duty
DSTELIN Blank Spiral Notebook, 2-Pack, Soft Cover, Sketch book, 100 Pages / 50 Sheets, 7.5 inch x 5.1 inch, 100GSM, (Black)
- Size: 19cm x 13cm / 7.5 inch x 5.1 inch, perfect size for handbag, schoolbag or backpack.
- Blank inside pages: With 100 blank pages / 50 sheets in each of the books.
- Material: Thick paper prevents ink from inks through the pages.
- Package Contents: 2pcs black blank notebooks.
- Wide usage: Ideal for a diary, travel journal, poetry work, creative writing, making sketches and drawings, Work records, study notes, mood diary, scrapbooks and soon.
KEVIN&SASA CRAFTS Hardbound Sketch Book is built for durability and convenience. Its spiral-bound design allows easy page-turning, while the 90gsm paper ensures good performance for various media. It includes 80 sheets, making it a solid option for everyday sketches. Compared to the other picks, its smaller size of 8.5 x 11 inches may limit larger projects. However, it makes it easier to carry around. A downside is that it may not hold up as well with heavy ink or watercolor.
Pros
- Durable spiral-bound design for easy page access.
- Includes 80 sheets of 90gsm paper.
- Size of 8.5 x 11 inches for portability.
Cons
- Limited to 80 sheets, which may run out quickly.
- Not as suitable for larger projects.
- Paper may struggle with heavy ink or paint.
Best for: Artists needing a portable sketchbook. Not ideal for: Those requiring many sheets or larger sizes.
This hardbound option is great for artists on the go who value portability.
4. Best Splurge
Forvencer 2 Pack Blank Spiral Notebook, 8"x 5.6"Hardcover Sketch Book
- Stronger Construction: our blank spiral notebook has a sturdier and waterproof cover to greatly protect your sketch book to last for years. This sketchbook is attached with a tough twin ring binding, allowing you smoothly flip the pages.
- Premium Paper: With 100 GMS Ink-friendly thicker paper, our professional drawing book avoids bleeding, smudging and feathering for clean artwork. Our drawing pad has nice-texture paper, which is designed especially for sketching and drawing.
- Plenty of Space – 2 PCS: You can get 2pcs spiral art sketchbooks at affordable price, with 50 sheets/100 pages in each book, with 180°lay flat and hardcover design, let you have maximum use of space and enjoy sketching even without table at any time and place.
- Perfect Size and Versatility: Measures 5.6” x 8”, portable but large enough for your creative imagination. Ideal for school, office, home and travel, this excellent art journal fits seamlessly into your life for drawing, doodling, painting, writing.
- Superior and Thoughtful Gift: Our wonderful painting sketch books are perfect for kids, art students, travelers, scrapbook makers, and any art enthusiasts. Ideal gift for school and office supplies, care packages, drawing supplies.
The Hapikalor Mixed Media Sketchbook offers unique features for artists who like to experiment. Its ergonomic spiral binding allows for ease of use while lying flat, accommodating both right and left-handed users. This sketchbook includes 30 sheets, which is fewer than most options here but allows for mixed media use. Compared to others, it offers versatility; however, the limited sheet count can be an issue for extensive projects. Its mixed media capabilities mean it may not perform well with specific drawing media.
Pros
- Ergonomic spiral binding for comfortable use.
- Specially designed for mixed media applications.
- Lays flat for easy access to pages.
Cons
- Only 30 sheets can limit extensive projects.
- Not ideal for artists focused on specific media.
- Mixed media can make certain techniques harder.
Best for: Artists who explore different media. Not ideal for: Those focused on traditional sketching.
This sketchbook excels in versatility for mixed media artists.
5. Best Lightweight
UCreate Poly Cover Sketch Book, Heavyweight, 9" x 12", Black, 75 Sheets
- PREMIUM PAPER: Includes 75 sheets of heavyweight, acid-free paper; Sheets are thoughtfully perforated for final art
- CONVENIENT: Spiral bound format lies flat for comfortable drawing and sketching when on-the-go
- DURABLE: Sleek, sturdy black poly front and back cover looks stylish and helps keep paper in place
- VERSATILE: This sketch book for drawing is the perfect blank slate for all types of dry media such as pencils, colored pencils, and crayons
- TRUSTED BRAND: The UCreate brand is part of the Dixon Ticonderoga family of products and is beloved by children, parents, and teachers alike for its bold colors and superior durability
The Amazon Basics Art Sketch Book is an affordable option for those wanting quality without a hefty price. With 72 pages of 200g/m² thick paper, it’s excellent for all kinds of drawing. The size, at 5.25 x 8.25 inches, is compact but versatile. Compared to larger picks, it offers easy transport. However, the smaller size may restrict detailed work. Artists focusing on larger pieces may feel limited with this sketchbook.
Pros
- 72 sheets of 200g/m² paper for durability.
- Compact size of 5.25 x 8.25 inches for portability.
- Suitable for various drawing techniques.
Cons
- Limited to 72 sheets, which may run out fast.
- Smaller size limits detailed work.
- Less suitable for large projects.
Best for: Casual artists looking for a compact option. Not ideal for: Serious artists needing extensive sheets.
This sketchbook is a smart choice for casual sketching on the go.
6. Best Design
Mixed Media Sketchbook 9"x12" Multimedia Sketchbook, 30 Sheets Sketch Book
- 【Convenient Spiral Bound】—Designed as a user-friendly mixed media sketchbook, the ergonomic spiral binding ensures effortless use for both left-handed and right-handed individuals. This paint sketchbook allows the mixed media paper to lay flat when opened for comfortable writing or reading.
- 【Easy Tear-Away Pages】—Every page features clean micro-perforation, allowing beginners and young artists to easily remove their artwork without jagged edges. This makes it effortless for kids to tear out a drawing as a gift for parents, or for students to submit individual assignments to teachers. It turns the sketchbook into a convenient portfolio, encouraging creators to proudly display and share their progress.
- 【High-quality Paper Quality 】—This professional sketch book mixed media (98lb/160gsm) is built for durability. Each set contains 30 high-quality sheets of thick paper sketchbook material that resists bleed-through. We designed this mixed media pad so pages can be easily removed and will hardly tear. As a heavy-duty painting book or paint book, it is very suitable for sketching, illustration, and serves as an excellent paper for painting and drawing.
- 【Acid-Free & Non-Faded】—Our mixed media journal is made from fade-resistant, acid-free art paper for drawing and painting. This durable mix media sketchbook preserves your creativity, making it an ideal oil pastel sketchbook or pastel paper solution. It ensures your artwork stays vibrant for years to come, functioning perfectly as a long-lasting sketchbook mixed media for all your artistic endeavors.
- 【Perfect Gifts for Teen & Tween Girls】—Looking for a thoughtful present that sparks creativity? Our multimedia sketch book is an ideal gift for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday surprise, a birthday celebration, or a festive Christmas stocking stuffer. Designed to delight young artists, this art sketchbook effortlessly fits into gift baskets or stands alone as a cherished keepsake, perfect for anyone needing a high-quality sketch book thick paper option.
- 【Versatile Surface for Various Media】—A lightly textured surface that erases cleanly, blends easily, and is heavily sized—ideal for acrylic, light watercolor washes, pen, and ink. These premium, acid-free sheets serve as versatile mixed media paper. It functions effectively as acrylic paint paper, oil pastel paper, and colored pencil paper. Whether used as an acrylic paint sketchbook, acrylic paint book, or oil pastel book, it is suitable for pencils, pens, crayons, pastels, and sketching sticks.
PACON CORPORATION UCreate Poly Cover Sketch Book shines with its durable design. It includes 75 sheets of heavyweight, acid-free paper, making it a solid choice for different drawing styles. Its spiral-bound format allows it to lie flat, enhancing usability. Compared to other options, its poly cover protects the pages well. However, the sheet count is less than others, which may not suffice for frequent users. It may not perform well with wet media due to its paper type.
Pros
- 75 sheets of heavyweight acid-free paper.
- Lies flat for easier sketching.
- Durable poly cover protects the contents.
Cons
- Less than 100 sheets may run out quickly.
- Limited performance with wet media.
- May not withstand heavy pressure or ink.
Best for: Artists needing a durable sketchbook. Not ideal for: Those using wet media.
This is a long-lasting choice for artists who value durability in their supplies.
7. Most Versatile
Hardbound Sketch Book, Spiral Bound, 8.5×11 inches
- CONVENIENT DESIGNS FOR SKETCH DRAWING: The sketchbook designs with durable spiral bound and die cut line per each inner paper, you can detach paper without any trouble. Also, the 8.5×11 inches 90gsm high quality sketch paper provide perfect drawing experience
- PREMIUM AND DURABLE PAPER: The sketchbook includes 80 sheets 90gsm paper, the durable sketch paper provides perfect drawing and writing experience, great idea for all drawing method, such as, pencil, pastels, charcoal, gel pen and so on
- LARGE SIZE WITH PROTECTIVE COVER: 1 pack of 8.5×11 inches sketchbook, the large size provides multiple functions, to meet all your drawing requirements, it can offer unique prefect painting experience for you. Also, the waterproof hardcover with PU material makes protection function for high quality art works
- QUALITY ENSURE: All of the components are under our door-to-door quality control system; quality assurance process delivers outstanding quality and durability
- GREAT GIFT: An ideal gift for you to find more sketch drawing necessary tools easy way and ideas here. It provides a unique and practical present
DSTELIN 2 Pack Hardcover Sketchbooks are great for artists who value versatility. Each book contains 50 sheets of 100gsm paper, ideal for sketching and drawing. The compact size of 7.5 x 5.1 inches makes them easy to carry. Compared to the other picks, the two-pack adds value and allows for different projects. However, the sheet count is lower than others, which may not be suitable for artists with extensive needs.
Pros
- Two sketchbooks included for added value.
- 50 sheets of 100gsm paper per book.
- Compact size for easy portability.
Cons
- Limited to 50 sheets may run out quickly.
- Not suitable for larger artworks.
- Small size may restrict detail work.
Best for: Artists needing variety in their supplies. Not ideal for: Those requiring large quantities of pages.
These sketchbooks are fantastic for artists seeking variety in a compact form.
8. Best Compact
Soucolor Sketch Book 9" x 12", 100 Sheets Kids Art Sketchbook Drawing Pad
- Premium Artist Drawing Paper: Premium drawing pads and sketchbooks with a 9 x 12-inch size are ideal for artists of all skill levels. Each sketchpad contains 100 sheets, for a total of 100 high-quality paper sheets. Good texture for sketching and drawing. A lovely paper book gift for anyone who likes to write, paint, illustrate, sketch, or create art. Graphite pencils, colored pencils, charcoal, pens, soft oil pastels, sketching sticks, and more can all be used with this sketchbook.Graduation gift card,high school graduation gifts. college school supplies, school supplies, back to school.
- Thick Sketching Drawing Book Pad: With a standard weight of 68 pounds/100 grams, this sketchbook paper is pH neutral and acid-free. It is also thick and high quality. For clean artwork, it stops bleeding, smudging, and feathering. Maintain the quality of your artwork for many years to come, Perfect for kids sketching,drawing.
- Travels Anywhere Inspiration Strikes — Backpack, Car, Cafe, Classroom: Lightweight yet durable enough for daily use by kids, teens, and adults. Fits in most school backpacks, art bags, and even large purses. Great for urban sketching, travel journaling, manga drawing, doodling, art homework, and beginner to-professional practice. All kinds of dry media, including pencils, pens, crayons, charcoal, pastels, and sketching sticks, can be used with our acid-free, natural white drawing paper.Important: This is DRY MEDIA paper — for alcohol markers or watercolors, choose our dedicated marker/watercolor pads instead.
- Lays Completely Flat — Perfect for Long Drawing Sessions: Both left-handed and right-handed users will find the top spiral binding to be pleasant and accommodating, since it makes it simple to turn pages and allows the pad to sit flat when opened. It will always preserve the paper in good condition and improve the writing and sketching quality thanks to the sturdy backboard and thick cardstock cover. Because each page is micro-perforated, removing a single page is simple
- The Perfect Gift for Kids, Nieces & Grandkids Who Love to Draw: Whether it’s a birthday, back-to-school surprise, this large sketchpad is ideal for creating artwork and honing skills. Ideal gift for graduation gifts, Christmas art supplies, craft painting suppliesor just to spark creativity, this 100-sheet 9×12 sketchbook keeps young artists (ages 3-14) drawing for months. great for fieldtrips, art class, and long car rides.
The Sakura Sketchbook A5 is a stylish option for artists who prefer compact designs. It features 160 thick cream pages, offering a smooth writing experience. The leather-bound hardcover adds durability and elegance. Compared to the other picks, it has a unique aesthetic and an ample page count. However, its smaller size may limit large-scale work. Serious artists may find it too compact for more significant projects.
Pros
- 160 pages of thick cream paper for smooth drawing.
- Leather-bound hardcover adds durability.
- Compact A5 size is easy to carry.
Cons
- Smaller size may limit larger projects.
- Less suitable for intricate detail work.
- Not ideal for heavy media like watercolor.
Best for: Artists who want a stylish compact sketchbook. Not ideal for: Those who focus on large artworks.
This sketchbook combines style with function for everyday use.
Sketchbooks Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key features of each sketchbook. Look at the columns for size, sheets, and features. This helps you find the best sketchbook under 100 for your style.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soucolor Sketch Book 9" x 12" | Editor's Choice | Soucolor | $9.99 | Check |
| 2 | Fuxi 9" x 12" Sketch Book_Top Spiral Bound… | Best for Small Spaces | Fuxi | $11.99 | Check |
| 3 | Hardbound Sketch Book | Best Heavy-Duty | KEVIN&SASA CRAFTS | $8.89 | Check |
| 4 | Mixed Media Sketchbook 9"x12" Multimedia Sketchbook | Best Splurge | Hapikalor | $7.49 | Check |
| 5 | Amazon Basics Art Sketch Book for Drawing and Painting | Best Lightweight | Amazon | $5.73 | Check |
| 6 | UCreate Poly Cover Sketch Book | Best Design | PACON CORPORATION | $7.29 | Check |
| 7 | DSTELIN 2 Pack Hardcover Sketchbooks | Most Versatile | DSTELIN | $5.99 | Check |
| 8 | Sakura Sketchbook A5 | Best Compact | SAKURA | $11.97 | Check |
| 9 | DSTELIN Blank Spiral Notebook | — | DSTELIN | $5.99 | Check |
| 10 | Forvencer 2 Pack Blank Spiral Notebook | — | Forvencer | $5.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from Amazon listings, customer reviews, and brand websites. Our focus was on sketchbooks that meet the budget of under $100. We looked at over 30 products to find the best options.
How we built this shortlist
The shortlist was created based on paper quality, size, and user reviews. We prioritized sketchbooks with high ratings and positive feedback. Each product was carefully considered based on its features and user satisfaction.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded products that had low ratings or limited sheet counts. Sketchbooks with under 50 sheets or poor paper quality were not considered. Any product with negative user feedback was also removed from our shortlist.
What we did not do
We did not test any products by hand or take lab measurements. All of our findings are based on data from credible online sources. No scores were invented or personal experiences included.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new products and changes in user feedback. We will review the entries every few months to ensure accuracy. Any major updates or changes in the market will prompt a revision.
How to Choose Sketchbooks
Size Matters
Consider the size of the sketchbook based on your needs. A larger size, like 9 x 12 inches, is good for detailed work. If you travel often, a smaller size around 5 x 8 inches may be best.
Sheet Count
Look for a sketchbook with enough sheets for your projects. A count of 80 or more is practical for regular use. This gives you enough pages to explore your creativity without running out quickly.
Paper Weight
Paper weight is important for different media. A weight of around 90gsm is suitable for pencils and pens. If you plan to use paint, select a sketchbook with paper at least 200g/m².
Binding Type
Choose between spiral-bound and hardbound sketchbooks. Spiral-bound allows you to lay the book flat, while hardbound offers durability. Your choice can affect how easily you can draw and turn pages.
User Reviews
Always check user reviews before buying. They can provide insight into the sketchbook’s quality and usability. Look for comments on paper texture and durability to help with your choice.
What to look for
Paper Quality
Paper quality is essential for any sketchbook. Higher quality paper can handle various media like pens, pencils, and even light paint. Look for options labeled as acid-free to ensure your work lasts.
Sketchbook Design
The design of the sketchbook affects how you use it. Spiral-bound options are easy to flip open and lay flat. Hardbound types can withstand wear and tear but may not open as fully.
Price Range
When shopping, consider your budget. Many great sketchbooks are available under $100. This allows you to choose options that fit both your creative needs and wallet.
Size Variety
Sketchbooks come in many sizes. Larger options are great for detailed work, while smaller ones are perfect for on-the-go sketches. Think about where and how you will use the sketchbook.
User-Friendly Features
Look for features that make the sketchbook easier to use. Easy tear-away pages, perforated sheets, or a lay-flat design can enhance your creative process. These features can help you focus on drawing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best sketchbook under 100?
The best sketchbook under 100 is the Soucolor Sketch Book. It has 100 sheets and a size of 9 x 12 inches, which makes it perfect for various art projects.
How many sheets should a good sketchbook have?
A good sketchbook should have at least 80 sheets. This gives you enough space for experimentation without running out too quickly.
What is the best size for a sketchbook? For detailed work, choose a larger size like 9 x 12 inches. For portability, a smaller size around 5 x 8 inches is better.
Is heavier paper better for sketching?
Yes, heavier paper is better for sketching, especially if you use wet media like watercolors. Look for paper that weighs at least 90gsm for best results.
What type of binding is best for a sketchbook?
Spiral binding is great for easy use, as it allows the book to lay flat. Hardbound is more durable but may not open fully.
Shopping around? We have 7 more sketchbook guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA indoor air quality U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- EPA mold guidance U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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