As an indie author, you’ve got options for publishing your book – print, ebook, or even audio. The more formats you offer, the more readers you can reach, no matter how they like to read.
That said, print books are still the fan favorite. And let’s be honest—there’s something magical about holding your book in your hands, flipping through the pages, and seeing your name on the cover.
When it comes to print, you’ve got two main choices: hardcover or paperback. Which one should you go with? In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each to help you figure out what’s the best fit for your book (and your readers).
Hardback vs paperback: what works best for your book?
So, it’s not just about personal preference – there are a few key things to consider.
Functionality
Think about how your readers will actually use your book. Paperbacks are lightweight, flexible, and easy to carry – perfect for tossing in a bag and reading on the go. That makes them ideal for travel reads, beach books, or everyday fiction.
Hardcovers, on the other hand, are sturdier and more rigid. They’re great for books that might be displayed on a shelf, gifted, or used repeatedly – like cookbooks, nonfiction references, or special editions.
Pricing
Paperbacks are generally cheaper to produce, which means they can be sold at a lower price point. For example, on Kindle Direct Publishing, a standard 300-page black-and-white paperback costs about $4.60 to print. In contrast, the same book in hardcover can cost around $9.25, depending on the specs.
That’s a difference of nearly 50%, which directly affects your retail pricing strategy. Paperbacks are more accessible to budget-conscious readers or those discovering a new author for the first time. Hardcovers, while more expensive to produce and buy, offer a premium reading experience – and some readers are more than happy to pay extra for that, especially if they’re already fans of your work.
Longevity
If durability matters (whether it’s for collectors, libraries, or just frequent readers) hardcovers win hands down. They can handle more wear and tear and still look great on the shelf years later.
Paperbacks are more prone to creasing, bending, or pages coming loose over time. So if you’re thinking long-term legacy or high use, hardcover is the safer bet.
Look
Let’s talk aesthetics. Hardcovers often just look more impressive. They have a certain weight and prestige to them, especially if you add features like a dust jacket, foil lettering, or embossing. They’re perfect for launches, signings, or giving your book that “wow” factor.
Paperbacks, though, can still look amazing – and many readers actually prefer their casual and cozy feel. Plus, they’re less intimidating to pick up.
What sells better: paperback or hardbacks?
If you’re wondering which format will fly off the shelves faster – hardcover or paperback – the short answer is: paperbacks usually win when it comes to sheer number of copies sold.
Why? They’re more affordable, lighter, and easier to carry around. That makes them a go-to for casual readers, commuters, and anyone who’s bingeing your series on a budget. In fact, paperbacks made up nearly 39% of the U.S. trade book market, while hardcovers came in around 30%.
But don’t count hardcovers out just yet. While they might sell fewer copies, they often earn you more per sale, thanks to their higher price point. Plus, they look fancy, making them perfect for gifts, collectors, or superfans.
So what’s the best choice? It really comes down to your goals and your audience. Want to maximize reach? Go paperback. Want to impress and earn more per copy? Offer a hardcover, too. Or better yet, give readers both options and let them choose how they want to fall in love with your book.
Paperback vs hardback: how to choose?
Trying to decide between a hardcover and a paperback? Your choice affects cost, look, and how readers interact with your book.
- Paperbacks are lightweight, flexible, and perfect for casual, on-the-go reading. Hardcovers are sturdier and ideal for gifting, collecting, or frequent use.
- Hardcovers hold up better over time. Paperbacks may wear out faster, especially with heavy use.
- Hardcovers have that premium “wow” factor with extras like foil and dust jackets. Paperbacks offer a cozy, approachable vibe that many readers love.
- Paperbacks usually sell more copies – they’re cheaper and more accessible. But hardcovers can earn you more per sale due to their higher price point.
So, what’s best for you? If you’re aiming for maximum reach, go paperback. If you want a premium edition and higher royalties per unit, go hardcover. Or, you can offer both and let your readers choose how they want to experience your story.
FAQs
What is the difference between hardback and paperback?
A hardback (or hardcover) has a rigid, durable cover, while a paperback has a flexible, soft cover. Hardbacks are more sturdy and often look more premium.
Do paperbacks sell more than hardbacks?
Yes, paperbacks typically sell more copies because they’re more affordable and accessible to a broader audience.
Are hardbacks better than paperbacks?
It depends on your goals. Hardbacks are more durable and premium, while paperbacks are cheaper, lighter, and easier to carry.
Why is the hardcover more expensive?
Hardcovers cost more to print and use higher-quality materials, which raises both production costs and retail prices.
What do readers prefer: hardbacks or paperbacks?
Many readers prefer paperbacks for their price and convenience, but collectors and superfans often love hardbacks for their aesthetic and durability.
