Comparing the Hobonichi Techo Planner and the Hobonichi Techo Original: A Comprehensive Guide

When choosing a Hobonichi Techo, the differences between the Planner and the Original can significantly impact your planning experience. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which one fits your needs best.

Overview

The Planner was Hobonichi’s first English-language Techo book. Its design was directed by Sonja Park ofArts & Science and presents a more streamlined version of the Original Japanese book, though it still contains a page-per-day and many of the same key features. 

The Original (English version) was new to the Hobonichi line for 2024 and retains all the same features as the Japanese version but in English. 

Size and Cover

Hobonichi Techo Planner:

• Size: Available exclusively in A6 size.
• Cover: Features a dark, textured cover with the year imprinted on the spine.

Hobonichi Techo Original (English):

• Size: Available in both A6 and A5 sizes.
• Cover: Like the Original Japanese book, it has a smooth paper cover with no imprint on the spine.

Interior Layout and Features

Hobonichi Techo Planner:

• Format: Utilizes a 1-page-per-day layout, providing ample space for daily notes.
• Design: Created as the first English language Hobonichi planner, it is streamlined and simplified compared to the Japanese Original. Each month's pages are uniformly gray, with Sundays highlighted in red.
• Header:Features month, date, day-of-week, moon phase.
• Habit Tracker: Unlike the Original book, the Planner does not feature a habit tracker at the top of each page.
• Time Labels: Fewer labels for time along the left-hand side of the page offer a cleaner look.
• Grid Lines: 4mm grid lines provide a slightly larger grid for writing and doodling.
• Quotes: Contains inspirational quotes at the bottom of each page in English.
• Month-at-a-Glance: Includes a month-at-a-glance calendar at the bottom of each page.

Hobonichi Techo Original (English):

• Format: Also follows a 1-page-per-day layout.
• Design: Reflects the Original Japanese version, but translated into English. Each month’s pages are uniquely colored, adding a visual distinction for each month.
• Header:Features month, date, day-of-week, moon phase.
• Habit Tracker: Includes a daily habit tracker or to-do checklist at the top of each page.
• Time Labels: Features 8 labels for time along the left-hand side of the page, which can be useful for detailed scheduling.
• Grid Lines: 3.7mm grid lines offer a slightly finer grid for detailed notes.
• Quotes: Includes inspirational quotes at the bottom of each page in English.
• Month-at-a-Glance: Has a month-at-a-glance calendar at the bottom of each page.

Summary

The Hobonichi Techo Planner is ideal if you prefer a simplified and streamlined approach to planning. Its A6 size is perfect for portability, and its fewer time labels and uniform page colors offer a minimalist design. It is well-suited for those who appreciate a classic, no-frills planner with just the essentials.

On the other hand, the Hobonichi Techo Original (English) caters to those who need more detailed scheduling features and enjoy a bit of variety. The availability in both A6 and A5 sizes, along with additional features like the habit tracker and multi-colored pages, makes it a versatile choice for those who like to keep track of various aspects of their day in a more visually engaging way. 

Both planners include inspirational quotes and a month-at-a-glance calendar, ensuring they both provide motivational and organizational support. Your choice will depend on whether you prefer a streamlined, classic format or a feature-rich, visually varied planner based on the original Japanese book.