If your crews are working in the field, they’re probably writing stuff down. Could be shift notes, quick sketches, tallies, or job site info. And at some point, someone asks:
Should we be using a tally book or a log book?
They’re not the same. Here's how they compare, and when each one makes more sense.
They Look Similar. But They Work Very Differently.
Both are notebooks. Both are used on the job. But that’s where the similarities end.
The right choice depends on how your teams work, how fast they need to move, and what happens to the notes afterward.
What’s a Tally Book?
A tally book is a small, pocket-sized notebook built for rough conditions. You’ll see them in tool belts, back pockets, truck dashboards.
Crews use them to:
- Make quick notes
- Sketch site layouts
- Record reminders in the moment
They don’t have formal templates. Just open space to write fast wherever you are.
Most have vinyl covers and tough binding so they hold up to dirt, rain, sweat, and daily abuse.
What’s a Log Book?
A log book is bigger, more structured, and made for documentation.
If you need to:
- Fill out daily reports
- Record inspections
- Keep consistent logs
- Turn in paperwork to a supervisor
…then a log book makes more sense.
You’ll usually find these at workstations, in control rooms, or inside vehicles. The places where you’ve got time and a flat surface to write.
When to Use a Tally Book
Tally books are built for mobility. Use one if:
- Your crew is working on the move
- They don’t always have time for forms
- They’re in the elements: hot, cold, wet, dusty
- Notes need to happen quickly, then get sorted later
They’re ideal for field techs, linemen, operators, and supervisors, or anyone who needs to capture what’s happening as it happens.
When to Use a Log Book
Log books work best when:
- Documentation needs to follow a specific format
- Entries are official and may be reviewed or signed
- You’re tracking inspections, shift handoffs, or compliance
- The writing happens at a desk or station
If consistency and accountability matter more than portability, this is the right tool.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Tally Book | Log Book |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small, fits in a pocket | Medium to large, desk-friendly |
| Durability | Built tough for field use | Not always built for harsh sites |
| Format | Open notes, no set layout | Structured pages or templates |
| Best For | Notes and sketches | Reports, logs, compliance records |
| Writing Style | Quick, in-the-moment | Slower, formal |
The Bottom Line
If your team needs to write things down fast in unpredictable conditions, a tally book is a reliable, easy-to-carry option.
If they’re logging formal data that needs to be archived, reviewed, or submitted, a log book is the better fit.
Plenty of teams use both. One for the field. One for the file.
Get Tally Books That Hold Up on the Job
We make tally books designed for the work you do, tough covers, no-fuss formats, and ready to go wherever your crews go.
If you’re looking to outfit your team with something practical and field-proven, we’ve got options that work.
Check out our tally books and find the right one for your workflow.
