Field Notes Steno vs Chicago Look: Which Notebook?
By Springbar | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Comparisons
Compare the FIELD NOTES Steno and the Chicago Look Limited Edition notebooks. Find out which layout, size, and purpose suit your daily note-taking or collecting needs.
Quick answer
Choose the FIELD NOTES Steno if you need a large, desk-friendly notebook for lists and notes that lies flat. Pick the Chicago Look Limited Edition if you want a pocket-sized field notebook with a unique design story.
Size and layout differences
The Steno measures 6 by 9 inches and uses Gregg-Ruled pages, making it ideal for structured writing at a desk. The Chicago Look is a standard pocket-size Field Notes (3.5 by 5.5 inches) with a limited-edition cover inspired by mid-century sign painting.
Paper and build
The Steno features 80 pages of 70# Bright White paper with a spiral binding that lies completely flat, open or closed. The Chicago Look uses Field Notes’ standard 48-page, saddle-stitched format, which is more portable but doesn't open as flat.
Collector appeal vs everyday utility
The Chicago Look is a quarterly limited edition that explores American design history—great for collectors or those who appreciate typographic art. The Steno is a core utility product built for heavy daily use, such as phone messages, to-do lists, and meeting notes.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Desk work vs pocket carry: The Steno stays on your desk; the Chicago Look fits in a back pocket or small bag. Match the notebook to where you actually take notes.
- Ruled pages vs blank or graph options: The Steno uses Gregg-Ruled lines; the Chicago Look uses standard Field Notes ruling (often ruled or graph). Check the specific edition for ruling. If you need a specific grid, confirm the ruling before buying.
- Limited edition vs always available: The Chicago Look is a limited run; once sold out, it may not return. The Steno is a permanent product. Buy the Chicago Look now if you collect; the Steno can wait.
- Spiral binding vs saddle stitch: The Steno’s spiral binding lies perfectly flat; the Chicago Look’s saddle stitch is more compact but doesn't open as flat. For writing near the spine, the Steno is more comfortable.
Product facts
- FIELD NOTES - STENO: The Steno is 6" by 9" with a black “Double-O Wiring” spiral at the top so it lies flat, open or closed. Inside you’ll find 80 pages of 70# “Bright White” paper Gregg-Ruled. This design makes the Steno a practical desk notebook for long lists and notes without the page fighting you.
FIELD NOTES - STENO - FIELD NOTES - The Chicago Look (2 PACK): The Chicago Look is a Quarterly Limited Edition for Spring 2025 that explores a chapter of American design and typographic history through the lens of the Beverly Sign Co. If you value a story behind your stationery and enjoy collecting unique covers, this edition adds personality to your pocket carry.
FIELD NOTES - The Chicago Look (2 PACK)
Which one fits you?
Best for
- Daily list-makers and note-takers who work at a desk and want a large, flat-laying notebook
- Collectors or design enthusiasts who want a limited-edition cover with a story
Not for
- Anyone needing a pocket-sized notebook for on-the-go use (choose the Chicago Look instead)
- Someone who wants a permanent, always-available product (choose the Steno instead)
