Pen Loop XL vs Standard Pen Loop: Which Do You Need?

By LEUCHTTURM1917 | Premium Notebooks, Bullet Journals ... | Published: 2026-10-16

Category: Comparisons

Compare the Pen Loop XL and Standard Pen Loop by loop size, pen compatibility, and placement to choose the right notebook pen holder for your planner.

Quick answer

Choose the Pen Loop XL if you carry a fountain pen, large-calibre ballpoint, or XL marker. Choose the Standard Pen Loop if you use a standard pen. Both are self-adhesive and attach to the inside back cover of your notebook; the only real difference is the elastic loop size: 0.8 in. on the XL versus 0.6 in. on the Standard.

What actually differs between the two loops

The Pen Loop XL and the Standard Pen Loop share the same self-adhesive backing, the same 1.6 × 1.6 in. footprint, and the same intended placement on the inside back cover. The difference is the elastic loop itself: the XL stretches to 0.8 in., while the Standard stretches to 0.6 in. That 0.2 in. difference determines which writing instruments fit securely without stretching the elastic too far.

A loop that is too small will not close around a thick barrel. A loop that is too large can let a slim pen slide or sit loosely. Match the loop to the pen you actually carry, not to the notebook.

How to measure your pen before you buy

Wrap a strip of paper around the widest part of your pen barrel, mark where the paper overlaps, and measure that length against a ruler. If the circumference is roughly 2.5 in. or less, the Standard Pen Loop is the better match. If it is larger, go with the Pen Loop XL. Do not measure the clip or the cap finial; measure the barrel where the loop will actually sit.

If you switch pens often, the XL gives you more margin for thicker instruments, but it will feel loose on a very slim pen. If you carry one standard pen every day, the Standard loop holds it more snugly.

Placement and adhesion on your planner

Both loops affix to the inside back cover. Clean the surface with a dry cloth before applying, press the adhesive pad firmly for several seconds, and let it set for a few hours before sliding a pen in. The residue-free adhesive is designed for a clean installation, but repeated repositioning will weaken the bond.

For a planner you open and close many times a day, the loop should sit where the pen does not press against the pages when the cover is closed. Test the position with the pen in place before you commit to the adhesive.

Color and style options

The Standard Pen Loop and Pen Loop XL are available in multiple colors, so you can match your notebook cover or use a contrasting loop as a visual marker. The Monocle Pen Loop is a third option with the same 0.6 in. elastic loop as the Standard, available in Yellow, Olive, and Mandarin. If you want a standard-size loop with a more distinctive look, the Monocle version is the one to consider.

Trade-offs at a glance

Pen Loop XL: Fits fountain pens, large-calibre ballpoints, and XL markers thanks to the 0.8 in. elastic loop. The larger loop can feel loose on a slim standard pen. Best if your pen barrel is thick or you rotate between several large pens.
Standard Pen Loop: Holds a standard pen securely with a 0.6 in. elastic loop and keeps a low profile. It will not stretch comfortably around a thick fountain pen or XL marker. Best if you carry one standard pen and want a snug, unobtrusive hold.
Monocle Pen Loop: Same 0.6 in. loop size and self-adhesive attachment as the Standard, with a more distinctive color range. It does not solve thick-pen fit. Choose it for the look, not for extra capacity.

Product facts

Pen Loop XL, Self-Adhesive: A larger pen loop for thicker writing instruments — fountain pens, large-calibre ballpoints, XL markers. Affixes to the inside back cover of your notebook. Self-adhesive. Suitable for thick pens. 1.6 × 1.6 in. 0.8 in. elastic loop. The 0.8 in. loop is the deciding feature: it accommodates pens that will not fit in a standard loop, so you do not have to force a thick barrel into a smaller elastic.
Pen Loop, Self-Adhesive: Self-adhesive backing for instant, residue-free installation. Compact size 1.6 × 1.6 in. (4 × 4 cm) fits most notebook covers. 0.6 in. (1.5 cm) elastic loop holds a standard pen securely. The 0.6 in. loop is sized for standard pens, giving a snug hold without the extra slack of the XL. The residue-free adhesive means you can attach it without tools and without damaging the cover.
Monocle Pen Loop: Self-adhesive backing allows quick, secure attachment without tools. Compact dimensions of 1.6 × 1.6 in. keep the loop low-profile. Elastic loop stretches 0.6 in. to hold a pen firmly. Available in three vibrant colors: Yellow, Olive, and Mandarin. This is a standard-size loop with a distinct color option, so it suits the same pens as the Standard Pen Loop while offering a different look.

Which one should you get?

Best for

Fountain pen, large-calibre ballpoint, or XL marker users who need a 0.8 in. loop
People who switch between several thick pens and want extra margin
Planner users who want a self-adhesive loop that attaches to the inside back cover

Not for

Slim standard pens, which will feel loose in the XL loop
Anyone who wants the most low-profile hold possible
Notebooks where the inside back cover cannot accept a self-adhesive pad