Spirals and Discs and Rings…Oh My!

When it comes to choosing a new planner, the options are endless, and the planner systems available are abundant. So, how do you know which planner system will be right for you?

Let’s highlight some of the most popular planner systems on the market today because, let’s face it, there are a TON of planners to choose from that we just can’t cover them all!

Below, I will outline each planner system, popular brand(s) within the category, as well as pros and cons of each.

Deep breath, here we go!

 

Discs

Disc bound planners are classified by the individual discs that bind (or hold) the planner together. Discs are often plastic or aluminum in material. You can find additional discs sold separately to add or change out as needed. Discs come in various colors, so if you don’t like the color that came with the planner, just pick up an additional set and quickly swap them out!

Popular Disc Bound planner Brands

• The Happy Planner
• ARC System

Pros for Using a Disc Bound Planner

• Extremely customizable; fully customize your planner to your liking
• Pages can be removed and re-inserted wherever you want them, whenever you want!
• Removable covers
• Lays flat
• Can be folded onto itself
• All-in-one system
• Rings can be changed for different colors or sizes

Cons of Using a Disc Bound Planner

• Because these planners are often so affordable, when new planners are released, you want to buy a new one. BUY ALL THE PLANNERS!!
• Plastic discs may crack
• Planners are a little flimsy in sturdiness

 

Coils

Coiled planners are classified by the metal or plastic coil binding the planner together. Coils can be found in gold, silver, rose gold, black, etc. These planners typically come with plastic covers, but some planners come with a hard cover option.

Popular Coiled Planner Brands

• Erin Condren
• Ink Well Press
• Recollections

Pros for Using Coiled Planners

• Sturdy binding
• Quality appearance
• Lays flat
• Can be folded onto itself
• Removable covers (on some coiled planners)
• All-in-one system

Cons of Using a Coiled Planner

• Pages cannot be easily removed (unless coil is removed)
• Minimal inserts/extensions to add/customize your planner
• Pages can unwind off the coil

 

Rings

Ring bound planners are classified as planners using a binder system with metal rings. The rings in these planners are often attached to a binder cover. The covers can be made with many types of materials, including leather, pleather, have cardboard, etc. These types of planners also come in various colors and sizes.

Popular Ring Bound Planner Brands

• Carpe Diem Planners
• Kikki K
• Recollections
• Foxy Fix

Pros for Using a Ring Bound Planner

• Pages are safe and secure within binder cover
• Pages can be removed easily and re-inserted
• Extra pockets within cover
• Sturdy construction
• Many color options

Cons of Using a Ring Bound Planner

• Covers cannot be removed; must purchase new binder cover to change the cover of your planner
• Bulky in design; takes up space
• Binder covers and planner insert kits often sold separately, though some are sold as a full set

 

Strings

Planners with strings are often referred to as Traveler’s Notebooks, or just notebooks. These planners have covers with elastic strings attached where notebook inserts can be added. These are often great for taking with you on-the-go due to their smaller, more portable size.

Popular Brands for Planners with String

• Foxy Fix
• Carpe Diem Planners
• Webster Pages
• Recollections

Pros for Using a Planner with Strings

• Smaller in size
• Portable
• Customizable with inserts
• Add as many/as few inserts as desired

Cons of Using a Planner with Strings

• Covers and inserts often sold separately
• Size options are plentiful, so knowledge of basic sizing is helpful
• Can get bulky depending on number of inserts

 

Bound / Coil Free

Bound or coil free planners are often referred to as book bound planners. These planners often have a hard outer cover, with an attached bookmark. Thes types of planners are ideal for the no-fuss planner babe or dude, where everything is inclusive within one planner, or where customization is not necessary or desired.

Popular Bound / Coil Free Planner Brands

• Passion Planners
• Blue Sky
• Ink Well Press
• Erin Condren

Pros for Using a Bound / Coil Free Planner

• Readily available anywhere you can buy office supplies
• Thin; not bulky in design
• Typically less expensive than their trending counterparts

Cons of Using a Bound / Coil Free Planner

• Covers are permanent
• Not customizable; Cannot move pages around
• Cannot add inserts/accessories

 

Where to Buy Planners

• Online
• Craft Stores (Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Jo-Ann)
• Office supply stores
• Target/Walmart

 

 

I know, I know. This was a lot of information, but take it in slowly, especially if you are new to the planner game. Do your research, and you will find the planner system that speaks to you most.

Be sure to check out Part 2 in this mini-series where we will discuss planner sizes!

Happy planner hunting, and I will catch you all in the next post!

Come follow me on Instagram and Facebook @aWishfulPlan

Watch Videos and Subscribe to My Channel