Choosing the best clipboard for work could mean the difference between uneven handwriting or a reliable writing surface to write and store papers with. Our evaluation focused on design, construction, paper capacity, and ergonomics.
After more than 12 hours of research, our pick for the best clipboard for work goes to the SaundersRecycled Aluminum Cruise Mate Storage Clipboard for Work. It is an all-around performance, featuring a rugged recycled aluminum build, generous 1. 5″ internal storage capacity, and a separate bottom compartment to store items. Keep reading to learn more about the Saunders Recycled Aluminum Cruise Mate Storage Clipboard for Work and other office products available for purchase.
Top 7 Best Clipboard for Work
#1 Saunders 21017 Recycled Aluminum Cruiser Mate Storage Clipboard for Work
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This is the best contractor clipboard, due to a self-locking latch and rugged recycled aluminum construction to protect sensitive work documents from the elements.
- Self-locking latch for security
- Two storage compartments for paper and writing utensils
- Low profile clip for easy portability
- May flex if too much pressure applied
- Clipboard has very sharp corners; may scratch on occasion
- Larger, non-standard sized folders and envelopes will not fit
This aluminum storage clipboard is very well designed. It uses a top-open dual tray along with a self-locking latch to open and close. Opening the first tray reveals a clipboard pad and a separate bottom compartment stores documents and writing utensils such as pens and clips. It is good to hold up to 150 standard-sized sheets of paper.
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We love this heavy-duty clipboard’s recycled aluminum construction, which holds up very well to knocks or occasional drops. Dual storage trays also help separate stacks from important documents used for specific contracting jobs.
#2 Officemate Slim Clipboard for Work
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This clipboard for work comes with a slim profile and super ergonomic handgrips for a nice hold, making it a nice-to-have while traveling.
- Secure hinge and clasp closure
- Bottom compartments for storing pens and pencils
- Low profile clip and slim profile fits nicely in briefcases
- Not waterproof
- Thin plastic storage compartment may bend inward with heavy use
- Clip could be stronger; not as good with thicker stacks of paper
This clipboard is pretty nifty in its design. It is made of soft vinyl with a simple, nearly flat metal clip and ergonomic ridged sides that make it easy to hold. Its outer clip is pretty low profile, so it won’t snag the inner fabric of your briefcase. A hinged and clasp closure system and a small bottom compartment with plastic lid also hold pens, pencils, and other smaller items.
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This clipboard for work can store standard 8-1/2″ x 11″ paper. All in all, we were very impressed with this clipboard for work’s overall build quality and compartment-based design.
#3 Sunnyclip Metal Clipboard for Work
Award: BEST FOR FIELD PROFESSIONALS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This is the best clipboard for field work, thanks to two letter-sized trays and a waterproof recycled aluminum construction, a great choice for professionals out on the field.
- Spring grip to hold paper
- Compartments for letter sized(A4) files and writing utensils
- Weatherproof and water-resistant build
- Sharp edges
- May dent and ding easily with repeated drops
We love the way this clipboard for work is designed. Its top writing surface has a jumbo-sized clip for securing papers. Opening a bottom latch reveals a paper storage compartment (for 8-1/2″ x 11″ letter-sized paper) and a larger bottom compartment can store calculators, pencils, measuring tape, and other items needed out on the field.
Our favorite feature with this storage box is its spring-hinged clamp, which is strong enough to hold 50+ sheets of paper without slipping. Its recycled aluminum is very durable, more than capable of withstanding the occasional drop without dinging. Our only knock is that it contains sharp edges, which may lightly scratch users if not careful.
#4 Dexas 3517-J2728 Slimcase 2 Storage Clipboard for Work
Award: BEST FOR STUDENTS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This clipboard for work comes in one of seven colors and a snap-on side latch for secure closing, and these bright color choices makes it a fantastic option for students looking to stand out.
- Snap-on latch to protect documents
- Durable, break-resistant plastic
- Made in the U.S.A.
- Edges may appear loose when clamped with heavy wear
- Side clip not the most durable
This storage clipboard for work is a dependable workhorse. It comes in a soft, plastic construction that feels more like vinyl with rounded edges, unlike some recycled aluminum options that come with sharper edges. A side compartment latch protects contents and a large steel clasp holds papers together against the writing surface.
This slim case’s plastic is very durable. High impact and accidental drops won’t leave dents or scratches. Kudos for coming in seven different bright color options (think neon yellow and fire orange), giving off a heavy elementary or high school vibe.
#5 Trade Quest Letter Size Clipboard for Work
Award: BEST ON A BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: This budget-friendly clipboard comes with a simple, hardboard surface and a retractable hanging loop, a great choice for people who want an easy way to mount it when not in use.
- Retractable hanging loop for easy storage
- Sturdy polished metal clip can hold up to 100 sheets of paper
- Smooth rounded corners for a nice feel
- Not waterproof
- No hidden compartments for storing pens and pencils
- Faint smell may turn off some people
This 9″ by 12.5″ rugged clipboard with storage is very well made. It is made of a durable hardboard with a polished metal clip that holds stacks of paper really well. Its rubberized corners are good enough to hold up to 100 sheets of paper. Kudos for soft, rounded corners, which offers a nicer hold over some recycled aluminum options with sharper edges.
With this tactical clipboard for work’s retractable hanging loop, we especially find it useful for medical professionals and workshop contractors who need repeated access. Note, this is arguably the lowest frills clipboard on the list with no separate compartments for writing instrumentals or envelope holders. If you are strictly looking for a nice writing surface, this clipboard is an excellent choice.
#6 Vaultz Locking Clipboard for Work
Award: BEST FOR SECURITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: Comes with a high tension clip and a key lock, making it great for people who want an added layer of security for protecting sensitive documents.
- Can be locked to protect documents
- Enough space for an iPad with interior Velcro strap
- Keyhole grommet for easy hanging
- Front may dent easily if hit too hard
- Interior Velcro strap frays easily with heavy use
This locking clipboard is really well made. It has a sturdy, outer high tension clip to lock in thicker stacks of paper and an internal storage compartment with several mesh lined pockets to store pens, pencils, and other miscellaneous items. Kudos for a keyhole grommet, which allows for easy mounting on a wall or workboard when not in use.
Thanks to this husky clipboard for work’s generous 12.5″ by 10.5″ by 2.75″ sizing, it is roomy enough to store up to 100 sheets of paper or an iPad. An interior Velcro strap even keeps it firmly in place and prevents shifting, especially important when out on the field. All in all, we were very impressed with this clipboard’s overall utility and locking function.
#7 Super Z Outlet Slim Plastic Nursing Clipboard for Work
Award: BEST FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This 9.5″ by 13.5″ by 1.25″ clipboard for work comes with smooth rounded edges, low profile clip, and an extra storage compartment, a great choice for teachers and nurses.
- Lightweight with a thin profile
- Smooth rounded edges for a nice grip
- Sturdy outer metal clip to hold paper & storage compartment for writing utensils
- Corners may gap open with heavy wear and tear
- The clasp doesn’t wants fully lock into position flush
We love this plastic clipboard’s lightweight and slim profile. At only 1.25″ thick with a low profile metal clip, it easily fits in briefcases and small purchases. A smooth writing surface and rounded edges make it a pleasure to hold and write on.
One of our favorite features with this clipboard is its sturdy metal clip with rubber edges, strong enough to hold thicker stacks of paper or an entire legal pad
without it shifting. Kudos for an extra storage compartment that makes it easy to stow away pens. pencils, and other smaller items.
How We Decided
In determining the best clipboard for work to buy, we explored design, construction, size/paper capacity, and ergonomics.
Design is by far and away from the most important criteria. We recommend clipboards for work that have a smooth, outer writing surface, a sturdy metal clip to retain thick stacks of paper, and at least one storage compartment to stow away pens and pens. Some of our picks are strict utilitarian (no compartments) for writing, while others carry additional features such as rounded grommet holes or locks to easily hang and safeguard items.
Construction is a key consideration. Clipboards are made using a variety of materials. recycled aluminum and plastic are the most common. Recycled aluminum is pretty sturdy, working well with contractors and other professionals in high impact environments.
Lastly, we looked into ergonomics. Our preference is for clipboards with smooth, rounded edges. Some of our recycled aluminum options are sturdy but come with sharper corners that could dig into the skin if not approached correctly.
Best Clipboard for Work Buyer’s Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
- Design
Our favorite clipboards feature a minimum of one extra compartment. This offers storage space for pens, pencils, and other miscellaneous items. We also like clipboards with a low profile to prevent snagging your briefcase or purse’s inner fabric. Also, watch for clipboards with smooth, rounded edges. They are much easier to hold and work with than sharp-edged recycled a; aluminum that could snag on occasion. - Construction
Our recommended clipboards for work are made of recycled aluminum or hard plastic. Hard plastic has the benefit of being a big rounded and softer, much more generous to the touch. - Ergonomics
Good clipboard for work ergonomics included rounded edges, one or two compartments to store writing utensils/iPads, and an easy side latch to keep all of your contents protected against the elements.
