With thousands of digital planners available, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide helps you cut through the noise and select a planner that genuinely matches your workflow, device, and goals—no more abandoned planners after January.
The Digital Planner Decision Framework
Before browsing any shop, answer these five questions:
- What device will I use? (iPad, reMarkable, BOOX, Kindle Scribe, etc.)
- What’s my primary goal? (productivity, creativity, health, business, etc.)
- How much structure do I need? (highly structured vs. flexible)
- Do I prefer dated or undated? (start anytime vs. calendar-specific)
- What’s my budget? (free, 0-20, 0+, subscription)
Your answers will dramatically narrow down your options.
Device Compatibility: The Critical First Filter
| Device | Best Format | What to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| iPad (GoodNotes) | .goodnotes, PDF | Complex hyperlinks may lag |
| iPad (Notability) | .goodnotes files | |
| reMarkable | PDF (hyperlinked) | Heavy graphics, color-dependent designs |
| Kindle Scribe | PDF (simple structure) | Complex hyperlink navigation |
| BOOX | PDF (optimized for e-ink) | Heavy animations or graphics |
| Supernote | Color-dependent if using A-series |
Key rule: Always verify your planner works on your specific device before purchasing. Ask the seller if unsure.
Matching Planner Style to Your Personality
The Minimalist
You want clean layouts without clutter. Look for:
- Black and white designs
- Simple daily/weekly layouts
- Plenty of white space
- Limited decorative elements
- Essential navigation only
The Creative
You love aesthetic designs and self-expression. Look for:
- Color options (if your device supports it)
- Sticker packs included
- Journaling prompts
- Vision board pages
- Creative layout variety
The Productivity Focused
You want maximum efficiency. Look for:
- Time-blocking layouts
- Goal tracking sections
- Priority matrices
- Weekly review templates
- Habit trackers
The Professional
You need work-appropriate planning. Look for:
- Meeting notes templates
- Project planning pages
- Quarterly/annual overview
- Professional aesthetic
- Team-shareable format
Dated vs. Undated: Which Is Right for You?
| Dated Planners | Undated Planners |
|---|---|
| Pre-filled calendar dates | You write in dates yourself |
| Start January 1 (usually) | Start any day of the year |
| Holidays pre-marked | No holidays (add your own) |
| Can feel “wasted” if you skip days | Never waste pages |
| More structured experience | More flexible approach |
Choose Dated If:
- You start planning January 1
- You like pre-formatted structure
- You use every day consistently
- Calendar dates help you stay on track
Choose Undated If:
- You’re starting mid-year
- You don’t plan every single day
- You want flexibility in layout usage
- You travel or have irregular schedules
Essential Features to Look For
Must-Have Features
- Working hyperlinks – Navigation should be smooth and responsive
- Device compatibility – Confirmed to work on your tablet/app
- Logical navigation – Can you find any page within 2-3 taps?
- Clean file structure – Not bloated or slow to load
- Writeable space – Adequate room for your handwriting size
Nice-to-Have Features
- Multiple color versions – Especially for e-ink users
- Bonus templates – Habit trackers, meal plans, budgets
- Sticker sets – If you enjoy decorating
- Lifetime updates – New versions included in purchase
- Seller support – Responsive to questions and issues
Understanding Planner Layouts
Daily Layout Options
| Layout Type | Best For | Avoid If |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly Schedule | Appointment-heavy schedules | Flexible, task-based work |
| Time Blocking | Focus work, productivity | Unpredictable schedules |
| Task List | To-do focused people | Those who need time structure |
| Mixed (time + tasks) | Most people | Minimalists who want simplicity |
Weekly Layout Options
- Vertical layout – Days as columns, hours as rows. Good for comparing schedules across days.
- Horizontal layout – Days stacked vertically. Good for task lists and notes per day.
- Two-page spread – More space but requires device landscape mode or scrolling.
- Dashboard style – Week overview plus goals, habits, notes all on one page.
Price Points and Value
Free Planners (/bin/bash)
- Basic functionality
- Limited customization
- Often minimal design
- Good for trying digital planning
Budget Planners (-15)
- Professional quality possible
- Working hyperlinks
- Device-optimized options
- Best value for most users
Premium Planners (0-50)
- Extensive features and pages
- Multiple bonuses included
- Regular updates
- Customer support
Subscription Planners ($/month)
- Monthly new planners
- Community access
- Ongoing updates
- Higher long-term cost
Recommendation: Start with a 0-20 planner that matches your device and needs. Expensive doesn’t mean better—value comes from fit, not price.
Red Flags When Shopping
Avoid planners with these warning signs:
- No device compatibility info – Seller doesn’t specify supported devices
- No preview available – Can’t see inside before buying
- Unrealistic claims – “Works on every device perfectly”
- No reviews or ratings – Completely new seller with no track record
- Blurry preview images – May indicate low-resolution files
- No contact option – Can’t reach seller with questions
Testing Before Committing
Try Before You Buy
- Free samples – Many sellers offer free sample pages
- Return policies – Check if refunds are available for digital products
- Reviews – Read what others say, especially for your device
- Community feedback – Ask in Reddit communities or Facebook groups
The 30-Day Test
After purchasing, use your planner for 30 days before judging. The first week feels awkward for everyone. By day 30, you’ll know if it’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use multiple planners at once?
You can, but it often leads to fragmented information and abandoned planners. Start with one well-suited planner for 3+ months before adding a second. If you need specialized tracking (fitness, business), consider using additional templates within your main planner rather than a separate system.
How do I know if a planner works on my device?
Check the product description for device compatibility. For e-ink tablets, look for “reMarkable compatible,” “Kindle Scribe optimized,” or “e-ink friendly.” When in doubt, message the seller directly. Good sellers respond quickly and honestly about compatibility.
What if I buy a planner and don’t like it?
Digital products typically have limited return options. However, many sellers offer refunds within a short window or exchanges for different versions. Before purchasing, confirm the seller’s policy. Also try using the planner for at least two weeks before deciding—the learning curve can make anything feel wrong initially.
Are expensive planners worth it?
Not necessarily. A 0 planner isn’t automatically better than a 5 one. Value comes from fit, not price. An expensive planner that doesn’t match your workflow is worthless. A cheap planner you use daily is priceless. Focus on features and compatibility, not price prestige.
Should I get a planner with lots of features or keep it simple?
Start simple. It’s easier to add complexity later than to simplify an overwhelming system. Pick a planner with core features you’ll use immediately. You can always upgrade to a more complex planner once you know exactly what you need.
Device Guides: Once you have picked your device, see our guides for iPad, reMarkable, or Kindle Scribe.
Related Guides
Continue exploring digital planning with these related guides:
- Digital Planning for Beginners: The Complete Getting Started Guide
- How to Use Your Digital Planner: Complete Setup Guide
- Getting Started with Digital Planning: The Complete 2026 Guide
- Free Digital Planner Guide: Where to Find Free Planners & What to Expect
Recommended Planners
Ready to start planning? Check out our professionally designed planners:
Leave a Reply