What to Look for When Buying a Digital Planner: A Buyer's Guide for New Users

Quick Answer

When buying a digital planner, focus on app compatibility, note-taking tools, and customization options. Start with a planner that works with the app you already use—like GoodNotes or Notability—and that offers hyperlinked tabs and templates you can actually edit. If you're new, choose a planner with a simple layout and plenty of guidance, not one packed with advanced features you'll never use.

Digital planners have changed the way many people organize their days, combining the flexibility of a tablet with the structure of a traditional planner. But if you're new to digital planning, the sheer number of options can feel overwhelming. You might wonder whether you need a planner that syncs with your calendar, or if a simple PDF with clickable tabs is enough.

This guide breaks down the key features to compare before you buy, so you can pick a digital planner that actually fits your routine. We'll cover app compatibility, note-taking tools, customization, and the trade-offs you'll face—like the difference between a planner that's packed with extras and one that's simple to use.

Start with App Compatibility

The most important decision is whether the digital planner works with the app you already use. Most digital planners are designed for note-taking apps like GoodNotes, Notability, or Noteshelf, and they come as PDF files with hyperlinked tabs. If you don't have a compatible app, the planner won't function as intended—you'll lose the clickable navigation that makes digital planning so convenient.

Before you buy, check which apps the planner supports. Some planners are optimized for a specific app, while others work across several. If you're not sure which app to use, start with a free or trial version of a popular note-taking app and test the planner's links. Also consider whether you'll use the planner on an iPad, Android tablet, or both—some apps are platform-specific.

• Check the planner's product description for the list of supported apps.
• If you use multiple devices, verify that the app and planner sync across them.

Look for Hyperlinked Tabs and Navigation

A good digital planner should feel like a paper planner, with tabs you can tap to jump to different sections—monthly view, weekly view, notes, and more. These hyperlinks save you from scrolling through dozens of pages. When you're evaluating a planner, look for screenshots or a preview that shows the navigation system.

Some planners also include a table of contents or a 'start here' page that explains how to use the links. This is especially helpful for beginners. If the planner doesn't have clear navigation, you might spend more time searching for the right page than actually planning. Try to find a planner that offers a free sample or preview so you can test the links before committing.

• Look for planners that include a tutorial or user guide for new users.

Consider Customization Options

Digital planners vary widely in how much you can customize them. Some come with fixed layouts, while others let you add your own stickers, photos, or text boxes. If you enjoy decorating your planner, look for one that includes a library of digital stickers or that works with the app's built-in tools. If you prefer a minimalist approach, a simple layout with plenty of writing space might be enough.

Another customization factor is the ability to duplicate pages. Many digital planners allow you to copy a weekly or monthly spread, which is useful if you want to add extra pages. Some planners also offer multiple color schemes or themes. Think about how you plan to use the planner—if you're a bullet journaler, you might want more blank pages; if you're a structured planner, you might prefer pre-designed layouts.

• Decide whether you want to add your own stickers or photos, and check if the planner supports that.

Evaluate the Learning Curve

Digital planning has a learning curve, especially if you're used to paper. Some planners come with detailed instructions, video tutorials, or even a 'getting started' guide. Others assume you already know how to use the app. If you're a beginner, choose a planner that includes guidance or that has a simple, intuitive layout.

Also consider how much time you're willing to invest in setup. Some planners require you to import fonts, install stickers, or organize files. If you want a quick start, look for a planner that works right out of the box—just download and open. The trade-off is that these planners may offer fewer customization options.

• Check if the planner includes a user guide or video tutorial for beginners.

Assess the Price and Value

Digital planners range from free to over $50. Price often reflects the number of pages, the level of customization, and the brand's reputation. However, a higher price doesn't always mean a better fit. A $10 planner with a simple layout might be perfect for someone who just wants to track habits, while a $40 planner with hundreds of stickers might be overkill.

Consider how often you'll use the planner and whether you'll reuse it. Some planners are dated for a specific year, while others are undated and can be used indefinitely. Undated planners offer more long-term value, but dated planners may include pre-filled holidays and seasonal themes. Also, check if the planner is a one-time purchase or a subscription—some apps charge a yearly fee.

• Compare the cost per year: a dated planner might need replacing annually, while an undated one can last longer.

Decision Rules for Choosing a Digital Planner

• Rule 1: Match the App First: Before anything else, confirm the planner works with the note-taking app you already have or are willing to download. If the planner's links don't work in your app, you'll lose the core benefit of digital planning. Check the app list in the product description before you buy.
• Rule 2: Prioritize Navigation Over Extras: Look for hyperlinked tabs and a clear table of contents. A planner with 500 pages but no navigation is harder to use than a simple planner with working links. Test a free sample if available to verify the links work.
• Rule 3: Choose Customization Based on Your Style: If you love decorating, pick a planner with sticker libraries or that supports adding your own images. If you're minimalist, choose a clean layout with plenty of writing space. Decide how much time you want to spend personalizing your planner.
• Rule 4: Factor in the Learning Curve: Beginners should look for planners with tutorials or simple layouts. If you're short on time, avoid planners that require complex setup like installing fonts or organizing files. Read reviews to see if other beginners found it easy to use.
• Rule 5: Evaluate the Long-Term Cost: Compare the price per year. An undated planner might cost more upfront but can be used for years, while a dated planner needs annual replacement. Calculate the total cost over two years to see which is more economical.

Related Products from Shop ARL

• The Journaler Bundle: This bundle is part of the S-kin Studio x Shop ARL collection and includes charms designed by AmandaRachLee to represent different things like love, clarity, and luck. Orders from this drop ship starting July 1st. If you're new to digital planning, you might still want a physical way to personalize your journaling space. The charms can add a tactile, meaningful touch to your paper planner or notebook, complementing your digital setup.
• Teddy Medium Sling Bag: This sling-style bag is made with teddy fabric and is designed to be a practical and stylish everyday bag. When you're on the go, you might want to carry your tablet or iPad along with your digital planner accessories. A cozy, hands-free bag helps you keep your devices and journaling tools organized while you plan anywhere.
• Teddy Retractable Pencil Case: This bestselling retractable standing pencil case now comes in a Teddy design and is ready to keep your stationery items cozy while you're on-the-go. Even digital planners often require a stylus or a physical notebook for brainstorming. This pencil case keeps your essential tools—like a stylus, pens, or highlighters—organized and protected, so you're ready to plan wherever you are.

Who Should Buy a Digital Planner?

Best for

• People who already use a tablet or iPad for note-taking and want to consolidate their planning in one place.
• Those who enjoy customizing their planner with stickers, photos, and digital tools and want the flexibility to edit and erase without wasting paper.

Not for

• People who prefer the tactile experience of writing on paper and don't want to spend time learning a new app.
• Those who want a planner they can use without a device—if you're often without your tablet, a paper planner might be more practical.

Choosing a digital planner comes down to matching the planner to your app, your style, and your willingness to learn. Start by testing a free sample or a budget-friendly planner to see if digital planning fits your routine. Once you find the right one, you'll enjoy the flexibility of editing, duplicating, and personalizing your planner in ways paper can't offer.