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.
Want to know more about binding? Check out the best binding for booklets.
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]
Updated on: June 27th 2023
Paperback books or hardcover books – what’s the difference and which style should you invest in? Whether you’re a new author in the process of publishing their first book or a company looking for a premium way to commemorate your achievements, creating the perfect book for your needs is a must. In this quick guide, we’ll weigh up the benefits of both paperback books and hardcover books to help you come to the right decision.
A paperback book, also known as a softcover or softback book, is characterised by its cover. This type of book has a much thinner cover than a hardback book, usually made from thicker paper or card than the inside pages.
The inside pages are usually stitched together, before being glued to a cover. Because they’re bound to a paper cover, this makes the books a lot lighter and more flexible, which in turn makes them easier to hold, read and fit into a bag for travel. It also means that the production of this type of book is cheaper!
Like paperback books, hardback books (also known as hardcover books) are made from a ‘book block’ which is the inside pages glued together at the binding edge. What elevates this style of book is its distinctive hardcover, which is usually made from a material called greyboard – a thick cardboard case with a paper cover glued over it. The paper cover is the part where the design is printed, and the thick cardboard case is what reinforces it.
Although more expensive to produce, hardback books are far stronger and more durable than paperback books. They are also less likely to become damaged over time, making them a great option for special edition publications.
Now we’ve got a clearer idea of what paperback and hardback books are, let’s recap the key differences between them.
1. Price
Hardcover books are more expensive to produce than softcover books, however they also often retail at a higher price. On average in the UK, hardback books prices range from £15-£20, whereas you can pick up a paperback book for around a fiver.
2. Strength
Due to their thick board cover, hardback books are far more durable than their paperback counterparts. This makes them a lot less likely to bend, and keeps the pages from getting frayed.
Hardback books also include endpapers, which are an additional sheet of paper between the cover and the inside pages, acting as another barrier against potential damage.
3. Convenience
Paperbacks are often an easier option for reading and transporting, because they’re a lot lighter and more flexible than hardback books. This means you can hold them for a long time and bend them slightly to fit them in your bag.
If you’re packing for a flight, paperback books also weigh less than hardback books, making them a preferable option for travellers with luggage weight limitations.
4. Appearance
Many hardback publications are released as special, limited editions, meaning they often have enticing designs that differ from the general release (usually a paperback edition). This means hardback books are often sought after by collectors, who are willing to pay a little more to get an exclusive option.
Similarly, if you’re a business looking to create a luxury catalogue or annual report for top clients, it may well be worth opting for a hardback book due to its connotations of being exclusive.
5. Timing
Publishers use paperback and hardback books to capitalise on the market by releasing hardcover books first. It’s not until months later that a paperback version is released. This means, if the book is highly anticipated, readers have no choice but to pay extra to receive a physical copy as soon as possible.
After the initial rush, publishers will release a cheaper, paperback copy in order to secure sales from less avid fans.
Thanks to their more affordable prices, paperback books are extremely popular for a wide range of publications. Here are the most common uses for paperback books:
• Mass produced fiction books
From novels to children’s picture books, the most common usage for paperback books is fiction books produced on a huge commercial scale. Readers of all ages can enjoy this type of book without paying top whack, and they can be re-read many times. For children’s books especially, paperback books are popular because they’re easy for younger children to hold while they’re learning to read.
• Non-fiction and educational books
Similarly, lots of non-fiction books produced for schools and training use paperback covers as a more affordable option for buying in bulk. The soft covers do add a certain level of protection and can withstand being used over and over again, making them a great choice to have on a school bookshelf.
• Prospectuses
University and career guides are a great option for softcover books, because they’re a premium option without being overly expensive. Many universities print paperback books showcasing their courses to prospective students at fairs, where it may not be worth the cost to hand out expensive hardcover books.
Hardback books offer a luxury reading experience, making them great for limited edition publications. Here are just a few of the ways they’re used.
• Special edition novels
While the mass production of book printing generally utilises paperback covers, publishers create limited edition versions to pre-release to fans before the cheaper option hits the shelves.
• Premium catalogues
For luxury products, hardback catalogues are a great way to entice higher spending clients. If the quality of the catalogue is anything to go by, the products must be world class!
• Portfolios
If you’re looking to impress clients or potential employers, it’s important to set yourself apart from the crowd. Bring your photography or graphic design portfolio to life by creating a premium, hardcover copy.
• Company history books
Celebrating your company’s journey should be commemorated in a special way, which is why many businesses choose to have theirs bound in a hardback book to impress visiting clients and set their milestones in physical form.
Here at instantprint, we offer hardback and paperback covers on a choice of books:
Thread sewn books – these Threadsewn books boast unrivalled durability, as the pages are folded together and bound with thread for a sturdy finish.
K-Bind books – we use our revolutionary K-binding technique to create impressive flat-lay books with no gutter between the pages, making them ideal for image-led publications.
Now that you know all of the differences between paperback and hardback books, and some of the ways they’re commonly used, you’re fully equipped with the knowledge you need to make an informed choice. In summary, we’d recommend hardcover books for premium, special-edition publications, whereas paperback is a better option if you’re planning on getting a lot of books printed. Shop our book range for even more choices!
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