Clipboard with storage
Ideal for professionals or students, this clipboard keeps important documents and small supplies securely organized within its integrated compartment.
Desk & Work
Clipboards
7 kinds worth knowing, 8 picks, and what to check before you buy.
A clipboard is a small, practical gift that often gets used every day. It suits coaches on the sidelines, students taking notes between classes, and coworkers who walk around more than they sit at a desk. Most searches are for a clipboard with storage, which has a hollow case for pens, forms and loose papers. A folding clipboard is the other common choice because it closes like a book and fits in a bag. When you choose one, think about where the person works: outdoors, on a job site, in a lecture hall or on a hospital floor. Pick a size and material that suit that place. A plain board they grab every day beats a fancy one that stays in a drawer.
Kind 1 of 7
Clipboards with a built-in storage case
This clipboard has a shallow, hollow case under the writing surface. The case holds blank forms, finished paperwork, pens and small tools. It suits inspectors, coaches, delivery drivers and anyone who carries papers between places. Before buying, check that the case fits letter-size paper without folding it and that the latch closes firmly. Look for a clip that holds a thick stack. Some cases open from the side and some from the top, so think about how the person will reach in while standing.
Kind 2 of 7
Folding clipboards that close like a book
A folding clipboard has a cover that closes over the pages, so papers stay flat and private and are protected from rain or coffee. Many have inside pockets for loose sheets, business cards or a pen. It suits students, sales reps, interviewers and anyone who carries notes in a backpack or briefcase. Check that the cover stays shut on its own, that the clip works with the cover open, and that the writing surface is stiff enough to write on while standing.
Folding clipboard
This innovative design protects your important papers from damage and prying eyes by folding securely when not in active use.
Kind 3 of 7
Mini clipboards for small notes
A mini clipboard holds half-sheets, index cards, score cards or order pads instead of full pages. It fits in a jacket pocket, a glovebox or a coaching bag. It suits servers, referees, golfers and anyone who jots quick notes on the go. It also works as a stocking stuffer. Before buying, check what paper size it holds and whether the clip can handle a small pad. Some have a hole for a lanyard, which helps if the person needs to keep their hands free.
Mini clipboard
Perfect for quick notes, small forms, or inventory checks, this portable clipboard fits easily into bags or smaller workspaces.
Kind 4 of 7
Aluminum clipboards for rough use
An aluminum clipboard is made of thin metal instead of hardboard or plastic. It won't warp when wet and it holds up to being dropped, stepped on or left in a truck. It suits trades workers, field crews, coaches and people who work outside in Canadian weather. Check the edges for smooth, rounded corners and look at the clip mechanism, since that is usually what wears out first. A lighter board is easier to carry all day.
Heavy duty aluminum clipboard
Built for demanding environments, this robust clipboard offers exceptional durability and a stable writing surface for industrial or outdoor use.
Kind 5 of 7
Clipboards for nurses and clinic staff
A medical clipboard is usually narrow or folding and fits in a scrub pocket. Many have printed reference charts, a spot for a pen and a cover to keep patient notes private. It suits nursing students, new nurses, paramedics and clinic staff. Before buying, check that it fits the pocket or bag the person actually uses and that the cover closes securely. If it has printed reference charts, make sure they match the person's field of work.
Medical chart clipboard
Specifically designed for healthcare settings, this clipboard often includes features like HIPAA compliance and patient information organization.
Kind 6 of 7
Heavy-duty storage clipboards for job sites
This is a tougher version of the storage clipboard. It usually has a thicker plastic or metal case, a stronger latch and a clip made for thick stacks of forms. It suits contractors, site supervisors, inspectors and anyone whose paperwork rides around in a truck. Check the thickness and weight, because a deeper case holds more but gets heavy. Also check that the latch won't pop open if the board is dropped, and that there is room for pens and a calculator.
Kind 7 of 7
Clipboards with pockets and compartments
This clipboard has pockets, dividers or a slim compartment instead of a single deep case. Folio styles often have a notepad, card slots and a pen loop. It suits professionals, managers and students who want paperwork organized and a tidy look at meetings. Before buying, count the pockets and think about what the person would put in them. Also check that the compartments stay flat enough to write on comfortably.
Professional clipboard folio
Combining a firm writing surface with organizational pockets, this folio elevates your professional presentation and keeps essentials neatly arranged.
How to choose clipboards as a gift
- Think about where the clipboard will be used most: outdoors, in a vehicle, in class or on a busy hospital floor.
- Check the paper size it holds, since most people in Canada and the US use letter-size sheets.
- Choose a strong clip that holds a thick stack, because a weak clip is the most common reason people stop using one.
- Pick storage only if the person carries forms or supplies, since a deep case adds weight and bulk.
Usually safe to skip
- Novelty clipboards with jokes or loud prints often look out of place at work and end up unused.
- Very thin hardboard clipboards warp when they get wet and bend easily, so they don't last long outdoors.
- Folio clipboards packed with pockets can be too bulky for someone who only needs to jot a few notes.
Questions people ask about clipboards
- Is a clipboard a good gift for a coach?
- Yes, especially a storage or aluminum style that handles weather and holds rosters, line-ups and pens. Coaches use them at every practice and game, so a sturdy one tends to get a lot of use through the season.
- What kind of clipboard do nurses prefer?
- Most nurses prefer a slim folding clipboard that fits a scrub pocket and has a cover to keep notes private. Pen holders and printed reference charts are handy extras, but size and a secure cover usually matter most.
- What is the difference between a folding clipboard and one with storage?
- A folding clipboard closes like a book over the pages and often has flat pockets inside. A storage clipboard has a hollow case under the writing surface for stacks of paper, pens and small supplies, so it is thicker and holds more.
Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.
Everything else
All clipboards picks
Showing 1–8 of 8
Artist clipboard
Providing a large, stable surface, this clipboard is perfect for artists, designers, or architects working on sketches, drawings, or blueprints.
Classic standard clipboard
This essential writing surface provides a firm foundation for anyone needing to take notes or fill out forms on the go.
