Books have always been cherished companions, offering escapism, knowledge, and a gateway to different worlds. However, when choosing between paperback and hardcovers, readers often find themselves at a crossroads. Both formats have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. In this article, we will compare the differences between paperback and hardcover books, exploring their advantages and disadvantages, and seeing which format will be more beneficial for your business.
To help you to understand more about how paperback and hardcover books work, follow the information below:
Paperback books refer to books that are bound with a flexible and lightweight cover made of thick paper or cardstock. They are commonly characterised by their soft, pliable covers and are often released after the initial hardcover edition of a book.
What makes paperback books more flexible is how they are held together by glue. However, this makes it harder for them to lay flat if this is how you prefer to read your books. Alternatively, you can use a book weight to keep them propped open.
Paperback books are typically less expensive than hardcover editions and are known for both their portability and affordability. They have become widely popular due to their convenience, making them accessible to a wider audience.
Average paperback book sizes are between five to six inches wide, and eight or nine inches high. They also weigh less than a hardcover book, making it easier for you to carry around.
Paperback books are commonly found in bookstores, libraries, and online retailers, catering to diverse reading preferences and interests.
Did you know that publishers choose to release paperback books as an affordable alternative to popular titles? This can either be due to buyers not wanting to pay more for a hardcover book, or that the publishing company wishes to give the customer more purchase options for their products at cheaper prices.
Furthermore, paperback books are more favourable in non-fiction genres, since the topic requires more updates quicker, including science and technology, so paperbacks can be produced at a cheaper price to keep up to date with these trends.
Advanced review copies (ARCs) of books will be sent to book critics to review in a paperback format since, again, they are cheaper to produce.
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Hardcover books, on the other hand, have a rigid and durable cover made from thick boards. The covers of hardback books are typically constructed with a layer of thin or heavy paperboard, which provides extra protection and sturdiness to the pages.
Hardcover books are known for their robustness and ability to withstand wear and tear. They are often released as the initial edition of a book and are usually of higher quality and durability compared to paperback editions. Hardcover books are commonly associated with a more formal and traditional presentation, featuring decorative elements, embossing, or dust jackets.
They are favoured by collectors, those seeking long-lasting books, and individuals who appreciate the aesthetic appeal and tactile experience that hardcovers provide.
One of the main reasons that hardcover books are so popular is because, as the name suggests, is how long lasting that they are due to their cover design. Other times this cardboard can be wrapped in cloth, matte or glossy paper dust jackets. Author name and book title will also be stamped alongside the binding.
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Another great feature about hardcover books is how they can either be stitched or stapled together. These methods are extremely effective in ensuring that the spine is more flexible and can suit the reader’s needs better when handling a book that is generally harder to hold in your hands. This makes it a better advantage for laying books open flat, unlike paperback books.
Akin to paperback books, hardcovers are constructed using acid-free paper[i], which enables the products to remain thicker and have a premium design, whilst being highly unlikely to be easily damaged or worn away by external elements.
The average hardcover book can be ¼ size bigger than paperback books, encompassing six to eight and a half inches in length. Whilst these may not be the most practical books to carry around on your person, it is all about the quality, and the font will be larger, which is particularly useful for those who may be short sighted.
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When deciding whether to choose paperback vs hardcover, you also have to think about their functionality. This can vary based on an individual’s preferences and needs for reading. Paperback books, with their lightweight and compact nature, offer easy portability and can be conveniently bent and squeezed into the corners of bags or backpacks.
On the other hand, hardcover books provide a sturdy and visually appealing option. They surpass paperbacks in terms of durability, withstanding the test of time. Additionally, the aesthetic charm and collectability of hardcovers contribute to their ability to retain value over the long term.
Consider your target audience when choosing between paperback and hardcover editions. The choice between these formats is often determined by the nature of the content. For instance, renowned references like Encyclopaedia Britannica[ii] are typically published in hardcover to reflect their authoritative and enduring nature. On the other hand, fiction or autobiographies may be more commonly found in paperback format, which offers a more wipeable surface that may be practical for certain reading situations.
When crafting the design of your books, you should consider how the readers will utilise the books as well as whether they will find them appealing, both to hold as well as when on a bookshelf.
Paperback books can often forebode an inferior design compared to higher-quality hardcovers. On the other hand, hardcovers can be considered more unnecessary due to their higher cost. To ensure market competitiveness, it is advisable to examine what your competitors are offering and strive for a similar approach.
According to letterreview[iii], “paperback sells more copies, reaching a higher volume. However, hardcover books generate a higher return per book sold, so authors can make more money with fewer sales. […] self-publishers should consider printing both cover types, as each appeals to a particular market.” With this in mind, you need to contemplate these factors when choosing the cover design, but it will make more sense to use paperbacks since these will generate more sales and you may be more likely to generate more money than hardcovers in the long run.
Putting market considerations aside, it is widely acknowledged that hardcover books possess an allure that paperbacks simply cannot replicate. If you seek to create a desirable product and can establish a price point that does not deter potential buyers, opting for a hardcover edition is the better option.
Regrettably, self-publishing for hardcover books is increasingly posing greater challenges. Only a limited number of printers cater to self-publishers and offer hardcover printing services, imposing minimum quantities that surpass an author's requirements. Therefore, you should verify the availability of a capable printer before finalising your plans for a hardcover book.
Another factor to consider when choosing between paperback vs hardcovers is about publishing online and eBooks, which have increasingly become more popular with the invention of the internet. More people are choosing to read online since this will help reduce storage space, and readers may find it easier to read from a kindle without having to worry about pages getting damaged. Reading online also offers instance access for books, as opposed to having to buy or rent one from a bookshop or library.
Even for authors who may be less technologically inclined, exploring this avenue is worthwhile. While you may not have the opportunity to savour the scent of a physical book, ePublishing minimises risks and maximizes on the rewards of self-publishing. Should you still desire a tangible copy, you can always arrange for a printing run at a later stage. This factor focuses more on the experience of reading, and your personal preferences over whether you want your readers to have instant access for your books, or to buy a paperback or hardcover copy from a shop, will greatly defer.
With so many factors to consider between paperbacks and hardcovers, the table below can help give you a more concrete answer over the qualities of each product to help you choose which is right for you and your business.
Format
Paperback
Hardcover
Cover
Thick paper
Paperboard cover
Thick cardboard wrapped in cloth; dust jacket
Durability
Less durable
More durable
Pages
Acid-free
Higher quality
Will not discolour or fade
Thinner
Acid-free
Will not discolour or fade
Occasionally thicker
Binding
Glue
Staples
Stitching
Size
5-6 inches on average
6-8 ½ inches on average
Font
Smaller size
Bigger size
Spacing
Smaller between lines
Bigger between lines
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With their lightweight and floppier appearance, paperback books are the preferred choice for those who are travelling. They will fit great in suitcases and travel bags in planes and cars, or even when you are commuting. Sometimes, it is possible to stash paperback books in your pocket, which is great for downtime reading during the day. This is also why most maps are in paperback format, so that it is easier for tourists and backpackers to carry around on their person.
Hardcovers are naturally built to last due to their cost and binding, and in general, can withstand wear and tear better than paperbacks. If you want to preserve your books for longer, hardcover is the way to go. Even if you buy one for a friend or family member, they provide a great gift, due to their appearance and weight, that both you and the receiver will be getting your value for money and quality.
There are many factors to consider when choosing the differences between paperback and hardcover books, whether it be for your business, self-publishing purposes, or even if you are looking to create your own book collection. While hardcover printing can be costlier and less accessible for self-published authors, paperback editions generally offer a more viable option for both the author and the consumer. Ultimately, the decision between paperback vs hardcover formats should be based on the main factors:
Why do individuals have a preference for hardcover or paperback books?
The allure of hardcover books stems from their larger size, durability, and premium quality, making them a preferred choice for many readers. On the other hand, some individuals opt for paperback editions due to their lower cost, lighter weight, and enhanced portability.
Why is the price of hardcover books sometimes lower than paperback?
In most cases, hardcover books are not priced lower than their paperback counterparts. However, occasional instances of lower prices may occur when publishers have produced more hardcover copies than the demand and are willing to reduce prices to recover at least a portion of their expenses.
Are paperback and hardcover books identical?
In terms of the content of the book, paperback and hardcover editions are the same. However, hardcover editions may include additional elements like illustrations or forewords. There are distinct differences in their appearance, texture, and cost, with hardcover books often commanding a higher price point.
Which option is superior: paperback or hardcover?
The answer to this question varies depending on individual preferences and needs. Paperbacks generally offer a lower price point, lighter weight, and ease of transportation. Conversely, hardcover books boast increased durability and are often printed with higher quality materials, appealing to those seeking a more premium reading experience.
What sets novels in hardcover and paperback editions apart?
Typically, novels are first released in hardcover editions, followed by paperback editions a year or two later. While the content remains the same, hardcover editions may feature supplementary materials such as forewords and illustrations. Additionally, paperback versions are generally more affordable, catering to a wider range of readers.
[i] Preservation Equipment Ltd. (n.d.). What is Acid-Free Paper? [Online]. Available at: https://www.preservationequipment.com/Catalogue/Conservation-Materials/Paper-Board/What-is-acid-free-paper [accessed 15/06/23]
[ii] Britannica. (n.d.) [online] Available at: https://www.britannica.com/ [accessed 15/06/23]
[iii] LetterReview. (n.d.) Hardcover vs. Paperback: What Sells More Copies? [online] Available at: https://letterreview.com/hardcover-vs-paperback-what-sells-more-copies/ [accessed 15/06/23]
Katisha is a former military brat who studied engineering because she couldn’t hack it as a writer. You can find her on the internets talking books, movies, pop culture, beauty or whatever is floating her boat at the moment.
To channel the wise words of former NBC Executive Don Ohlmeyer, as often quoted by sports personality Tony Kornheiser, “The answer to your question is money.” The quote refers to sports, but it is no less true when it comes to the world of books. Thus, the most likely reason the hardcover of your new favorite read has yet to be available in paperback is the publisher is still reaping what they sowed.
Whichever of the different book formats you use to get your read on, bibliophiles know the usual publishing timeline. Hardcover books come first. Paperbacks get a set of steak knives. Everything else gets in where it fits in. Nonetheless, with all the various ways to consume books and with all of us book nerds ready and willing to give publishers our hard-earned money for books in all of their various formats, I couldn’t help but wonder : “Why do we have to wait months for publishers to release the paperback version of hardcover books?”
Although hardcover books are more expensive to print than paperbacks, printing them is still relatively cheap. Like the clothes we wear and the cars we drive, the manufacturers of the goods set the prices. Books are no exception. The business of book publishing incurs high fixed costs like author advances and expenses associated with editing, marketing, and distributing a book. Publishers need to recoup those costs and selling a hardcover book for $20–30 provides the necessary revenue. The longer the hardcover book is the only available buying option, the longer the opportunity to make more money.
In addition to bringing publishers more money, hardcover books also have an inherent prestige in the literary world worth more than their monetary value. They are considered for literary awards more often than paperbacks because hardcover books show readers, booksellers, and critics this story is worth their time and attention. In fact, some literary editors will only review hardcover books. At bookshops, hardcover books command more presence due to their shape and size, which makes them easier to display and more visible to potential buyers. Libraries with their limited budgets are more likely to order a hardcover book over a paperback because of its durability.
Although it depends on the publisher, the paperback release usually comes when sales for the hardcover book have subsided with the average time being six months to a year between the initial hardcover release and the paperback edition. With the release of the paperback version, publishers are able to create a new round of publicity for the book that can create enough fanfare to entice a new crowd of buyers along with the super fans purchasing another copy of their new favorite book that is more travel friendly.
We might assume the book that spent the longest time in hardcover was one of the best selling books of all time, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. However, taking into account the aforementioned information about the hardcover to paperback publication process, this book has actually taken the path most traveled. In the United States, the hardcover version of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was published on September 1, 1998. The paperback was released nearly one year later.
If J.K. Rowling’s monster hit of a book that took the culture and the literary world by storm spent the standard time in hardcover before being released in paperback, then what book could possibly come close? The answer is complicated. There are so many books published each year, how could we possibly know for certain? However, one contender for the book that spent the longest time in hardcover is bestselling YA Novel Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell, which was initially published on February 26, 2013. In 2014, a paperback version was published in Spanish. English readers had to wait an additional four years for the large print paperback. The standard paperback is scheduled for release on June 30, 2020 according to bookselling giant Amazon. This means the time between hardcover to paperback for Eleanor and Park varies between one year up to over seven years!
Another YA superstar that is defying the paperback release schedule is The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. The hardcover was released on February 28, 2017. Approximately one year later, on September 4, 2018, when the book world would most likely expect the release of the paperback version, HarperCollins released the hardcover collector’s and movie tie-in editions. At the time of this writing, readers looking for a paperback copy of The Hate U Give must look to publishing companies outside of the United States. The only formats available from HarperCollins are hardcover, ebook, and audiobook. The global pandemic and its impact on the literary world may be influential to the lack of The Hate U Give paperbacks, but doubtful that’s the main reason.
The most obvious reason is money. Shortly after its release, The Hate U Give was #1 on The New York Times Best Seller List for Young Adult Hardcover Books, where it remained for 25 weeks until being toppled by an obscure book that had to game the system. However, nearly 3 years later, The Hate U Give continues to be a bestseller with over 150 weeks on The New York Times Best Seller List. There is still continued interest in the novel, and readers are still interested enough to pay top (or slightly discounted) dollar to get their hands on the book. The publisher is still raking in the hardcover dough, so there is no need parade the paperback just yet. The situation is similar with Eleanor and Park. Not only was Rowell’s Eleanor and Park a bestseller upon release, Rowell dominated The New York Times YA Fiction Bestseller List. With Picturestart acquiring the film rights to Eleanor and Park, more book sales are to be expected since adaptations often boost sales of the original source materials.
Along with being two of the bestselling YA novels in the past several years, Eleanor and Park along with The Hate U Give enjoyed popularity among the general reading public as well as the literary critics. Both books won the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Young Adult Fiction in 2013 and 2017, respectively. They were also recognized by the American Library Association as honor books for the Michael L. Printz Award. While praise from readers and reviewers are good for selling books, we know what really gets the units moving: controversy.
There has been plenty of controversy surrounding both Eleanor and Park and The Hate U Give. Although there is debate on whether challenges and bans harm or benefit authors, the success of these two books implies the fight to keep books that speak truth to power and that represent marginalized groups out of the hands of readers often has the opposite effect. Not only are young readers who feel othered hungry for stories that reflect them and their experiences, the surrounding controversy intrigues people who were not previously interested in the books. They want to know what is in these books causing all the hubbub. With all that intrigue comes an increase in book sales, publishers laughing all the way to the bank, and paperback fans waiting just a little while longer for their favorite book format.
If you are wondering when your most recent hardcover book purchase will be available in paperback, then ask yourself a few questions. Is the book at the top of all the best sellers list? Is it being nominated (and winning) all of the awards? Is that book the talk of the town in both the literary world and among the general public? If the answer to these questions is no, then you may soon be in soft-covered bliss. Did you answer yes? Then, buckle up because you could be waiting months (or possibly years). That book you are currently loving is probably a global hardcover phenomenon, and the publishers plan to squeeze every penny out of that hardcover success before releasing it in paperback.