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Printed Books vs eBooks Statistics, Trends and Facts [2024]

Posted by Rob Errera on 05/31/2023

At a Glance: Books vs. eBooks

• The global paper books market will encompass around 1.87 billion readers by 2027, while e-reader users are expected to reach 1.2 billion .
• The U.S. market demonstrates a continued preference for print books with 788.7 million units sold in 2022.
• Despite trends towards digitalization, a 2021 survey revealed that 68% of younger readers (18 to 29-year-olds) in the U.S. prefer print books.
• At the same time, eBook sales in the U.S. are gradually increasing, with a 3.7% growth in January 2023 vs. January 2022, resulting in $85 million in revenue.
• Amazon's Kindle currently dominates the e-reader market, holding a substantial 72% share .
• Between 2021 and 2023, the average price gap between eBooks and hardcovers on Amazon increased by 75%  in favor of eBooks.

Paper books vs eBooks statistics show print is here to stay!

Dead tree editions just won’t die.

Like the monster in a horror movie, print books just won’t die . The most recent paper books vs eBooks statistics, research, and surveys back this up.

Print books are here to stay!

Let’s look at the most important eBook vs print book statistics, key differences between print and e-books, and where American publishers are taking the industry.

Popularity Contest: eBooks Versus Print Books

Are print books still popular? You’d better believe it!

According to the most recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center on book consumption and book formats, traditional print is still the most popular reading format for both adults and children.

Survey says:

• 75% of adults in the United States read a book in some format over the last year
• 32% of Americans claim they only read print books
• 33% say they read both print books and e-books
• 9% say they only read e-books
• 23% of the respondents said that they don't read books

eBooks vs Printed Books Sales

• Print books out-sell eBooks 4 to 1
• 191 million e-books were sold in the United States in 2020
• In January 2023, eBook sales in the US experienced a 3.7%  increase vs. January 2022, resulting in  $85 million  of generated revenue.

• Printed book sales amounted to 788.7 million units in 2022. Although there was a decrease compared to the previous year, the figure remains higher than in the years preceding 2021.
• Print book sales have increased 13.2% between 2020 and 2021, and 21% between 2019 and 2021
• eBook sales grew by 22% in 2020
• eBook sales have decreased 8% in 2021 but were still 8% higher than they were in 2019

Print book sales in the US from 2004 to 2022

Source: Statista

eBook book sales in the US from 2010 to 2020

Kindle vs Book Statistics

By far, the most popular e-reader on the market is Amazon’s Kindle. 

The Kindle comes in a variety of formats — color, glare-free, etc. — but all use the AZW eBook format. Most other e-readers, like the Barnes & Noble Nook and Apple Books, use the more ubiquitous EPUB format for eBooks.

• 72% of the e-reader market belongs to Amazon Kindle
• 10% of the e-reader market belongs to Barnes & Noble Nook
• 18% of e-readers use an alternative app for digital reading

A more recent study from Pew Research suggests more people are reading on their smartphones and tablets, leading to a recent decrease in e-reader sales.

A 2012 report from NewZoo found   17.4 million active Kindle Fire users and 30.5 million iPad users in the United States. By 2018 Amazon reported selling close to 90 million e-readers. By 2027, Statista projects the number of e-reader users to grow to 1.2 billion , resulting in an expected revenue of $15.39 billion in the eBooks market. 

Check also  ➜ How Many Books Are Published Each Year?

Demographics: Reader vs E-Reader

Book reading demographics vary according to education and income level.

College graduates make up 90% of book readers , while only 61% of high school graduates read books.

Those who dropped out of school have an even lower readership rate - a mere 32% .

Economics goes hand-in-hand with education. Individuals earning over $75,000 a year make up 86% of readers, while well those earning less than $30,000 annually make up only 62% .

Physical books are still the top moneymakers for publishers. 

Publishing market research shows the economic juggernaut of traditional books. While publishers are experimenting with different media formats — especially audiobooks — they are still investing the bulk of their marketing efforts into physical book sales.

And they should...there’s still big money in old-fashioned publishing!

• The Physical Books market is projected to reach 1.87 billion  users by 2027, with an average revenue per user (ARPU) of $37.41 .

        The United States Book Publishing Industry Revenue by Category

• Physical formats accounted for over 75.5% of the revenue for trade (consumer books) publishers.
• E-books experienced a 5.0% decline compared to 2020, totaling $1.97 billion and making up 10.5% of publishers' overall revenue for the year.
• In 2020, 19% of adult readers owned an e-reader, a decrease from 32% of adult readers who owned e-readers in 2014.

Canada Book Market Mirrors The US

Canadian booksellers see the same trends as the United States: people prefer print when it comes to long-form reading . 

A 2022 survey from Canadian Book Consumer Study supports these findings:

• Print books accounted for 73% of purchases made by Canadian buyers
• E-books represented 17%  of the purchases
• Audiobooks accounted for 6%  of the total

  The Distribution of Book Purchases by Format in Canada (From 2019 to 2022)

• Among book buyers, those aged 35 to 44 accounted for the highest percentage of print book purchases, with 25%
• In 2022, print books comprised 71% of library borrowings, while eBooks accounted for 21% and audiobooks made up 8% .  

And this trend is not just confined to North America. The same thing happens in a dozen different countries.

Reader vs. E-Reader Statistics: Educational Levels

College graduates:

• 88% read a book last year
• 80% read a print book
• 39% read an e-book
• 32% listened to an audiobook

High school (or less) graduates:

• 59% read a book last year
• 51% read a print book
• 17% read an e-book
• 13% listened to an audiobook

Reading Habits Reported by Various Groups in the US

Reader vs. E-Reader Statistics: Income Levels

• 86% of people earning over $75,000 per year read a book last year.
• 78% of people earning between $50,000 and $75,000 per year read a book last year.
• 67% of people earning between $30,000 and $49,000 per year read a book last year.
• 62% of people earning below $30,000 per year read a book last year.

Print Book Youth Movement

One of the main reasons physical books are here to stay is because the next generation of readers has already embraced them. 

Studies by Pew Research Center show that the most avaricious readers are young adults, with 83% responding they read a book in some format in 2021.

Data gathered from surveys and studies helps shape market trends. 

• 83% of people aged 18-29 read a book
• 77% of people aged 30-49 read a book
• 72% of people aged 50-64 read a book
• 68% of people aged 65 and older read a book
• 62% of 16 to 24-year-olds preferred print books to e-books
• 68% of 18 to 29-year-olds preferred physical books to e-books
• Only 4% of children’s fiction was published in digital formats in 2021

eBooks vs Print Books: Costs & Savings

In the early days of eBook publishing, the digital versions of books were priced much cheaper than the print versions. 

This made sense. 

There were no printing, paper, or shipping costs involved, so a digital book should naturally cost less. A decade ago, it was not uncommon to see a hardcover bestseller priced at $25 with a digital edition price around half that.

Today the prices of physical books are much closer , especially when it comes to new releases and popular authors. 

The cost of the latest Susanne Collins or Stephen King book will be nearly the same in both hardcover and e-book editions.

The real savings of eBooks come with older works and backlist titles. The digital editions of books that have been available for a while drop significantly. You can get eBook editions of classic literature for very cheap (even free).

Independent authors also offer up a wide variety of eBooks that are priced less than books from traditional publishers.

There are bargain books in both the physical and digital realms. You can find plenty of one-dollar eBooks online, enough to max out your e-reader. You can also find a table filled with $5 hardcovers at the local warehouse store.

Overall, eBooks will save avid readers money, but not as much you’d expect.

Hardcover vs. Kindle on Amazon: Kindle version costs 17% ($3) less than Hardcover

eBook vs Print Book Costs in 2023  

Amazon bestseller list 01/10/23:.

• Prince Harry The Duke of Sussex's “Spare” is $19.99 hardcover and $17.99 eBook - 2 .00$ difference in favor of the eBook
• James Clear’s “Atomic Habits” is $14.89 hardcover and 12.99 eBook - $1.90 difference
• Collen Hoover’s “It Ends with Us” is $20.24 hardcover and $12.99 eBook - $7.25 difference
• Collen Hoover’s “It Starts with Us” is $36.23 hardcover and $13.99 eBook - $22.24  difference
• Bonnie Garmus “Lessons in Chemistry” is $17.99 hardcover and $14.99 eBook - $3.00 difference
• Dav Pilkey’s “Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea” is $9.49 hardcover and $9.99 eBook - $0.50 difference

As we can see, new hardcover bestsellers sell for an average price of $19.80  in 2023 while their eBook counterparts sell for around $12 .

So, if you like to read hot-of-the-press bestsellers, choosing eBooks over physical books will save you about $7 per title … and a whole lot of shelf space!

eBook vs Print Book Costs in 2021

To compare let's look at the same data from 2021.

The difference in price between eBooks and paper books was less back in 2021 with some Kindle versions selling at a higher price than hardcover:

eBook offered at a higher price than Hardcover on Amazon

Amazon Bestseller list 10/12/21:

• JK Rowlings’s “The Christmas Pig” is $12.49 hardcover and $14.24 eBook - 1.75$ difference in favor of the the Hardcover
• Adam Schiff’s “Midnight in Washington” is $25.49 hardcover and 14.99 eBook - $10.50 difference
• Dave Grohl’s “The Storyteller” is $19.49 hardcover and $14.99 eBook - $4.50 difference
• Ron and Clint Howard’s “The Boys” is $20.49 hardcover and $14.99 eBook - $5.50 difference
• Nicholas Sparks “The Wish” is $15.99 hardcover and $14.99 eBook - $1.00 difference
• Anthony Doerr’s “Cloud Cuckoo Land” is $18.57 hardcover and $14.99 eBook - $3.58 difference

Based on the numbers above, new hardcover bestsellers sold for an average price of $19.30  in 2021 while their eBook counterparts sold for around $15. This means that eBooks were saving you about $4 per title  in 2021 compared to $7 in 2023 .

So, from 2021 to 2023 the difference in price between eBooks and hardcovers increased by 75% (or $3)  in favor of eBooks. 

Currently, there are still some ongoing  supply chain delays that might be influencing the book market. Until everything stabilizes, we probably could see further, and at times drastic, fluctuations in the pricing of physical books versus eBooks. 

Don’t Forget Your Local Library

You can’t get cheaper than free. Public libraries across the country allow you to borrow print and digital editions of books for a select period of time, usually a week or two. 

As long as you return your borrowed books on time and in good condition, the local library offers a lifetime of free reading

Plus, libraries are one of the biggest buyers of books. Let them make the investment while you reap the reading rewards!

The Benefits of E-Books

A book isn’t paper and binding. It is the words and ideas contained between the covers. 

An e-book contains all of the words and information of a print edition with a number of additional benefits:

• The key difference between e-books and printed books is this lack of a physical object .
• For starters, one difference is that an e-book is more portable than a print book.
• You can store an entire library of e-books on your phone or tablet and not take up an inch of physical shelf space. Kindle libraries can be vast and contain appropriate content for people of any age.
• E-books take up very little data . Even if your data is limited, a dozen full-length editions will occupy no more than a megabyte of disk space. It’s hard for print to compete in this area of books vs. e-books. Physical books take up a lot of physical space .
• E-books do not have a fixed font size. Make those letters big and easy to read before bed. Or change the color of the type or the background. The options are endless  and the convenience outstanding .
• Adopting e-book technology can make you more well-read. Your Kindle will survey your e-book reading tastes and report suggestions based on titles with a related association.
• In addition, e-books have the benefit of a built-in dictionary . No more guessing at word meanings based on their context. You could look up word definitions on the fly. Even search the web to get deeper details about the eBook you’re reading.
• E-books also offer an excellent way to take notes regarding the text you were reading. Digital notes can be exported into any text editor and you’re halfway through your book report or online review!
• Like all digital files, eBooks are also very convenient for sharing. Reader-community apps, like Goodreads, allow you to share your reading progress with others almost like a built-in book club you can join or occasionally check in on.
• E-books are also easier on the environment. Gone is the association with stinky paper mills and unnecessary tree slaughter. No glue, no expensive ink . Unlike paper books, eBooks leave little to no carbon footprint.

Latest eBook Sales Numbers

The Benefits of Print Books

A print book is a joy to behold!

The smell of freshly printed pages, the smooth, silky feel of paper beneath your fingertips, the crinkle, and crackle of a story flowing by. 

Print offers a unique reading experience.

Digital e-readers don’t engage the senses the way a physical book does. Reading a printed book is a tactile experience.

You feel  it, you smell  it, and you remember  it.

This is one reason physical books are the more popular format for readers. Printed books touch readers on a more primal emotional level .

Physical Books vs eBooks Statistics Showing Why Traditional Books Are Better

• 66% of readers believe printed books offer a more unique and fulfilling reading experience than e-books.
• A majority of college students say they retain information longer when it is read in a printed format.
• Traditional books don’t cause the eye strain inherent to e-readers. Reading on an e-reader before bed disrupts sleep and impacts overall health
• Children learn better with paper books. Almost 90% of teachers and parents believe reading 15 pages on paper every day improves a child’s memory and language development.
• 64% of employees say they prefer paper agendas and memos to digital communication.
• E-readers take more carbon to produce than physical books.
• Discarded e-readers lead to toxic electronic waste . Old books can be recycled with other paper products.

Digital books bought online generally cost less. While a new hardcover can cost $30, the same book may only cost $15 on a Kindle e-reader. And that’s the top price for an eBook.

Most back titles are available for under five dollars. If you have limited income, e-readers and e-books are a better bargain when it comes to price.

In addition, reading a print book offers an uninterrupted “low tech” reading experience . E-readers and online reading in digital formats run the risk of pop-up ads, dying batteries, and power failures.

Despite its distribution limitations, print still reaches a broad demographic, especially among older readers.

For example,  41% of Americans over age 65 are not Internet users. The number of e-reader owners is even lower among this demographic.

The Future Of Printed Books

The statistics and surveys tell the story; despite the growing popularity of e-books, traditional publishing is here to stay. 

The publishing industry uses market research to determine which book format a reader will prefer. U.S. libraries also contribute valuable data and figures on reader habits.

Another factor keeping traditional book publishing alive and well is the modern school system.

Textbook publishers have yet to embrace digital media. Heavy — and expensive — textbooks are still the norm for students. College students (and school boards) must buy the same textbooks year after year. Hey, the bulk of the information inside these textbooks hasn’t changed for centuries. Shouldn’t knowledge be free online somewhere?

Even though all the educational tools needed for academic success can be included on a lightweight laptop or tablet, print textbooks remain an essential part of classrooms. 

This one of the main reasons readers prefer printed books over e-books — they were raised with print books all through school and they carry that love of physical books into adulthood .

The Future Of The eBook and E-Reader

A 2019 survey by Pew Research provides data and figures, which publishers use to determine which reading formats are most popular. While eBooks and e-readers were not the “print killers” some predicted they’d be, digital books continue to make slow gains in popularity.

The best-selling e-books are genre fiction — romance, crime, science-fiction, thrillers, and related genres.

The popularity of digital fiction in the United States is slated to grow over the next few years. As the popularity of e-books spreads, so too do the sales of e-book readers increase.

• Projected e-book sales in 2025 = $7.78 billion (up from $5.91 billion in 2019)
• Projected e-reader sales in 2025 = $98.95 million (up from $77.94 million in 2019)

What About Audiobooks?

We are in the midst of a “listening revolution” the likes of which the world hasn’t seen since the birth of radio .

The rise of podcasts and narrated stories means more people are listening to media than ever before.

However, these modern “books on tape” aren’t eating away at physical books or e-book sales as much as they’re bringing in new readers and giving seasoned readers a new way to enjoy the stories they love.

• One-in-five Americans listened to a book in 2021
• 100% of American publishers are creating audio

Diverse Book Consumption Formats Among U.S. Adults

People Still Read Books... And Always Will

From a social media post to a blog article, people today read short-form writing on smartphones and tablets. But when they want to read in longer formats they turn to books , and, more often than not, they turn to “dead tree” editions printed with paper and ink .

Print books aren’t dying — they’re evolving, offering more accessible ways for people to enjoy them.

Technology has expanded our reading choices, allowing us to connect with books in different ways. In many ways — in terms of selection and availability — books are healthier than ever!

To get more insight into digital books vs. print books, we reached out to author Armand Rosamillia .  

Rosamillia says his sales were pretty evenly split between print books, e-books, and audiobooks until the pandemic hit.

“Looking at my stats from the last 18 months, my sales are roughly 18% print, 27% audiobook, and 55% e-book,”  Rosamillia reports . “Audio sales have nearly doubled since Covid, mostly affecting the print side.” 

In addition to writing books, Rosamillia also runs The Little Free Library, a take-a-book / leave-a-book public bookshelf, which is a hit with younger readers. 

Printed books are still preferred for nature journals, cookbooks, and children’s books. A recent Nielsen study found that parents and kids want to hold books and turn the pages together.

You can’t do that with an ebook.

The same goes for interactive books like coloring books, puzzles, and workbooks. You need traditional pages to get the most out of these books.

“Even though children are at ease with their tablets and technology (more so than I ever will be), they still gravitate toward the print books until they hit their teens, in my opinion,” Rosamillia says, “I have a Little Free Library on my property and the children go crazy whenever I put a new stack of picture books into it.” 

And that’s good news for bibliophiles of any age!

NDP Paper and Packaging Board’s Fourth Annual Back-to-School Report: Paper and Productive Learning The New York Times  Olympic College hms.harvard.edu/news/e-readers-foil-good-nights-sleep pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/01/06/three-in-ten-americans-now-read-e-books/ pewresearch.org/internet/2015/10/29/the-demographics-of-device-ownership/ pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2019/09/25/one-in-five-americans-now-listen-to-audiobooks/ pewresearch.org/internet/2014/04/03/older-adults-and-technology-use/ pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/01/06/three-in-ten-americans-now-read-e-books/ publishers.org/news/aap-statshot-annual-report-book-publishing-revenues-up-slightly-to-25-93-billion-in-2019/ publishers.org/news/aap-january-2023-statshot-report-overall-publishing-industry-up-3-5-for-month-of-january/ thestar.com/business/opinion/2020/01/27/print-still-rules-when-it-comes-to-books-in-ontario.html voxburner.com/blog-source/2015/5/18/16-24-prefer-books-as-physical-products newzoo.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/PRESSRELEASE_2012_Kindle_Newzoo_15042012_V4.pdf publishingperspectives.com/2022/11/aap-six-charts-on-the-us-book-market-2017-to-2021/ statista.com/statistics/422595/print-book-sales-usa/ statista.com/outlook/dmo/digital-media/epublishing/ebooks/worldwide statista.com/outlook/amo/media/books/physical-books/worldwide static1.squarespace.com/static/550334cbe4b0e08b6885e88f/t/6451113bd9fd6d74b9309140/1683034429461/CBC_2022_PDF.pdf

Rob Errera is an award-winning journalist embedded in the world of printers and printing supplies. Rob has nearly two decades of experience writing about cutting edge technology, business trends, and the ever-evolving industry of printing.

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Ebooks vs Printed books: Statistics, Sales, Facts, and trends for 2023

• by Tony Hoffman

“Digital or print? In a world where technology reigns, eBooks have surpassed printed books in sales and popularity. Let’s dive into the statistics and trends that shape this literary evolution.”

The debate between eBooks vs printed books has been a long-standing one, with passionate advocates on both sides. While printed books offer a tactile experience and a sense of ownership, eBooks provide convenience and portability.

Digital or Print? The Evolution of Reading

Global Book Market in 2023: ebooks vs Printed books

Print books:.

• Print books continue to dominate the global book market, generating over $64.35 billion in revenue in 2023, a 2.24% increase over 2022.
• The average global print book revenue has been declining by 1.67% annually over the last six years.
• By 2027, print revenue is projected to grow by 1.08% annually, reaching $67.14 billion, still below the 2017 levels of $71.50 billion.
• Ebooks have been growing globally by 3.52% annually on average since 2017 and are projected to generate over $13.72 billion in 2023.
• Ebooks are projected to grow faster than print books, with revenue expected to reach $15.29 billion in 2027.
• By 2027, ebooks should account for over 17.27% of global book sales. source: Wordsrated.com

physical books vs ebooks: Comparison

Ebook and printed book sales statistics and market trends.

The world of reading has seen a significant shift with the advent of digital technology. Both paper books and eBooks have their unique places in the market, and understanding their sales statistics and market trends can provide valuable insights into consumer behavior and preferences.

Paper Books vs. eBooks Statistics

The debate between paper books and eBooks has been ongoing for years, and the statistics reveal a fascinating picture. In 2023, the sales trends show a close relationship between paper books and eBooks, reflecting the future of books and reading habits.

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1. Debate: Paper Books vs eBooks

The debate between books vs. ebooks is not just about preference but also about convenience, cost, environmental impact, and accessibility. While paper books offer a tactile experience and a sense of ownership, eBooks provide portability, customizability, and ease of learning.

According to TonerBuzz , the sales of eBooks have been on a steady rise, with a 20% increase in 2020. However, paper books still hold a significant market share, especially among readers who value the physical appearance and tactile experience of reading a printed book.

2. Sales: 2023 Statistics

The sales statistics for 2023 reveal a balanced market where both paper and digital books coexist. The growth in eReaders and digital platforms has made eBooks more accessible and affordable, contributing to their increasing market share. On the other hand, the production and recycling of paper books continue to be a consideration for environmentally conscious readers.

The statistics show that eBooks accounted for 34% of book sales in 2023, while paper books held a 66% share. The growth in eBook sales can be attributed to factors such as convenience, pricing, and usability, while the preference for paper books is often linked to the tactile experience and appearance.

3. Future: Paper or Digital

Looking at the future of books, both paper and digital formats have their roles to play. The convenience and customizability of eBooks make them a preferred choice for tech-savvy readers and those looking for instant accessibility. However, the tactile experience and sense of ownership associated with paper books continue to attract a dedicated audience.

The environmental considerations related to production and recycling also play a vital role in shaping consumer choices. The growth in eBook sales is expected to continue, but paper books are unlikely to disappear entirely. The market is likely to see a coexistence of both formats, reflecting diverse reading preferences and needs.

Printed Books: A Timeless Classic

Learn the economics of ebooks and printed books.

Analyzing the current state of the book market, growth, resilience, and technology’s impact provides insights into the economics of printed books and eBooks.

I. Market: Current State

The current state of the book market reflects a balance between traditional digital eBooks and printed books. While eBooks are expanding, printed books maintain stability, thanks to their tactile appeal and the sentimental value attached to physical ownership.

II. Growth: eBooks

The growth of eBooks is a testament to technological influence and changing reading habits. With features like adjustable fonts, integrated dictionaries, and the ability to carry thousands of titles in one device, eBooks offer a level of convenience that resonates with modern readers.

III. Resilience: Printed Books

Printed books have shown remarkable resilience in the face of digital expansion. Their physical presence, appearance, and the sensory experience they provide continue to attract readers who value the traditional reading experience.

IV. Technology: Impact on Reading

Technology’s impact on reading is evident in the rise of eBooks and eReaders. The accessibility, usability, and customizability of digital reading experiences have made eBooks an attractive option for many. However, the production, recycling, and environmental impact of printed books continue to be significant considerations in the ongoing debate between printed and digital reading experiences.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability OF ebooks and paper books

Paper books vs. ebooks: environmental impact.

In the modern era, technology has become an integral part of our lives, and reading is no exception. With the advent of e-readers in 2007, the traditional activity of reading was digitalized, sparking a debate on which method, e-readers or printed books, is best for the environment. Let’s explore the environmental considerations of both.

Environmental Impact: Printed Books vs. eBooks

Printed books:.

• Production: It’s no secret that the paper industry relies on cutting down trees. The production of a single paper book produces around 7.5kg of carbon dioxide, and the process requires a lot of water, energy, and chemicals.
• Deforestation: Paper books contribute heavily to deforestation, playing a significant part in climate change. Around two glasses of water are required to produce each page of a book.
• Recycling: Though physical books have greater longevity, the transportation and disposal of unsold books waste a tremendous amount of energy.
• Manufacturing: E-readers are made using plastics derived from petrochemicals and valuable minerals like copper and lithium. The process expends 100 kilowatt-hours of fossil fuels, producing 66 pounds of carbon dioxide.
• Pros and Cons: An e-reader can represent an entire library, reducing the environmental burden per book. A Kindle with 32 GB of storage can hold up to 15,100 ebooks, making it a great space-saving solution. However, the entire modern e-reader industry is assembled in China, contributing to air pollution and climate change.

Sustainability: Considerations

• Longevity: If well looked after, physical books can be enjoyed by many different people, amortizing their footprint.
• Eco-Credentials: Even using recycled paper is a mere drop in the ocean when it comes to improving the overall eco-credentials of the production process.
• Carbon Footprint: A single e-reader’s total carbon footprint is approximately 168kg. By reading 22–23 books digitally, you have the same environmental impact as reading the same books in print.
• Recycling: Electronic waste is a growing problem. If not recycled correctly, e-readers can release toxic fumes and corrosive battery fluids into the environment.

Most Eco-Friendly Option:

• Occasional Readers: Buying physical copies of books favors the occasional reader, as they won’t make enough use of an e-reader to pay back the total carbon footprint.
• Prolific Readers: Using e-readers to the end of their natural lives ensures that they are as economical as possible. Prolific readers would only have to read around 44 ebooks to halve their carbon footprint.

Source: Commercial Waste

Ebooks vs. Print Books: Consumer Preferences

Market trends and consumer preferences.

In recent years, the publishing industry has witnessed a significant shift in consumer behavior and preferences between printed books and eBooks . While both formats have their unique appeal, understanding market trends and consumer choices is essential to gauging the future of reading.

Market Trends and Consumer Preferences:

• Printed Books: Despite the rise of eBooks, printed books continue to dominate the market. According to the Association of American Publishers, hardcover and paperback books still rule the market, with approximately $3 billion and $2.5 billion in sales in 2019, respectively. The tactile experience of holding a book, turning the pages, and feeling the paper has kept the allure of printed books alive.
• eBooks: On the other hand, eBooks offer convenience, portability, and customizability. With the ability to store thousands of books on a single device, eBooks have become a popular choice for tech-savvy readers. Sales in the U.S. declined slightly to $983 million in 2019, following several years of double-digit declines.
• The COVID-19 Impact: The 2020 pandemic was a boon to print publishing. Sales rose 8.2% year over year to a total of 751 million copies. More leisure time and a need to educate children at home were cited as reasons for the book-buying spree.
• Cost Comparison: Print books are still a little more expensive than e-books. For example, President Barack Obama’s memoir, “A Promised Land,” is $17.99 for the Kindle edition and $23.96 for the hardcover. Classics are the real bargain in any format, with Charles Dickens’ complete works available for Kindle at just $2.99.
• Environmental Impact: While eBooks eliminate the need for paper, the production and recycling of eReaders must be considered. Printed books, on the other hand, require paper, ink, and energy for production and distribution, impacting the environment.
• Accessibility and Usability: eBooks offer font style and size flexibility, making them accessible to a wider audience. However, some readers may find the quality of illustrations and the reading experience on a screen less appealing than print versions.
• The Shrinking Price Difference: E-books aren’t much less expensive than their paper counterparts, especially for new books from major publishers. The cost difference is closing, with e-books priced about the same as paperbacks but less than hardcovers.

Use Insights From: Investopedia , The Print Authority

The Pros and Cons of Printed Books

Printed books have been a beloved format for centuries, offering a tactile and visual experience that many readers cherish. The feel of the paper, the smell of the ink, and the weight of a book in hand provide a sensory pleasure that e-books can’t replicate. Illustrations on paper are generally of higher quality than even high-end e-readers can reproduce. However, printed books are often more expensive, heavier to carry around, and consume more physical space.

1. The Pros and Cons of Printed Books

• Pros : Physical feel, higher quality illustrations, no need for electronic devices.
• Cons : More expensive, less portable, takes up physical space.

The Pros and Cons of eBooks

E-books offer a modern reading experience with the convenience of portability and customization. E-readers can store thousands of books on a single device, and the font style and size can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. E-books are often less expensive than their printed counterparts, especially for classics. However, some readers find the lack of tactile experience unappealing, and e-readers must be recharged and may not be easily readable in sunlight.

2. The Pros and Cons of eBooks

• Pros : Font flexibility, can store thousands of books, often cheaper, portable.
• Cons : Need to recharge; some screens are not easily readable in sunlight, potential eye strain.

The Reading Experience: Analysis

The reading experience varies significantly between printed books and e-books. While printed books offer a traditional and sensory-rich experience, e-books provide flexibility and convenience. The choice between the two often depends on personal preferences and specific needs. For instance, avid travelers may prefer e-books for their lightweight and space-saving advantages, while those who value the physical aesthetics of books may lean towards printed editions.

The Reading Experience: A Comparative Analysis

• Print books offer a tangible experience, allowing readers to physically turn pages and feel the paper. Some readers find the quality of illustrations superior in print.
• eBooks offer flexibility in font style and size, and the ability to carry an entire library in one device. Some e-readers mimic the look of real paper for a comfortable reading experience.

The Cost Factor: Printed Books vs. eBooks

The cost of printed books and e-books can vary widely. While printed books often have a higher upfront cost, they can be resold or shared with others. E-books, on the other hand, are generally cheaper but may come with restrictions on sharing. The price gap between the two formats is closing, and the cost difference may not be as significant as it once was. Additionally, there are platforms that offer free e-books, especially for classics, further reducing the cost barrier for e-book adoption.

• Print books are generally more expensive than eBooks, but the price gap is closing. The cost difference between eBooks and hardcovers on Amazon increased by 75% in favor of eBooks between 2021 and 2023 Toner Buzz .

Comprehensive Analysis and Conclusion

The battle of books: ebooks vs printed.

The debate between printed books and eBooks has been a prominent topic in the literary world. Both formats have their unique advantages and disadvantages, and the choice often boils down to personal preference and specific needs.

• Convenience and Portability: eBooks can be carried in devices like eReaders, tablets, or smartphones, allowing readers to have access to multiple books in one compact device.
• Customizability: Readers can adjust the font size, style, and background color to suit their reading preferences.
• Environmental Impact: eBooks are generally considered more environmentally friendly as they don’t require physical materials. However, the production and disposal of electronic devices can also have environmental implications.
• Tactile Experience: Many readers prefer the physical feel of a book in their hands. The texture of the pages and the smell of the paper often enhance the reading experience.
• Ownership and Appearance: Owning a physical book can be satisfying for collectors, and they can be displayed on shelves as decorative items.
• Environmental Impact: The production and recycling of printed books can have a significant environmental footprint, including the use of paper, ink, and energy in manufacturing.

Market Trends and Consumer Behavior:

• Sales Trends: eBooks have seen a surge in popularity with the advent of digital technology, but printed books continue to hold a substantial market share.
• Cost Considerations: eBooks are often less expensive than printed books, but the initial investment in an eReader can be a barrier for some.
• Accessibility and Usability: eBooks offer features like search functions, hyperlinks, and adjustable text, making them accessible to a wider audience, including those with visual impairments.

The battle between printed and digital books is not a simple one. It involves a comprehensive analysis of factors like convenience, cost, environmental impact, portability, customizability, ease of learning, sales trends, market share, growth, eReaders, production, recycling, tactile experience, ownership, appearance, pricing, accessibility, usability, and the overall physical and digital reading experiences.

In conclusion, both printed books and eBooks have unique attributes that cater to different reader preferences and needs. Individual preferences, lifestyles, and values frequently influence the decision between them. As technology advances, the coexistence of these two formats is likely to continue, each serving specific segments of the reading community.

My TAKE AWAY

From convenience to environmental considerations, eBooks have carved a significant niche in the reading world. Whether you’re a digital enthusiast or a lover of printed pages, understanding these trends helps shape our literary future.

Table Of Contents

• 1 Digital or Print? The Evolution of Reading
• 2 Global Book Market in 2023: ebooks vs Printed books
• 3 Print Books:
• 5 physical books vs ebooks: Comparison
• 6 Ebook and printed book sales statistics and market trends
• 7 Paper Books vs. eBooks Statistics
• 8 1. Debate: Paper Books vs eBooks
• 9 2. Sales: 2023 Statistics
• 10 3. Future: Paper or Digital
• 11 Printed Books: A Timeless Classic
• 12 Learn The Economics of eBooks And Printed Books
• 13 I. Market: Current State
• 14 II. Growth: eBooks
• 15 III. Resilience: Printed Books
• 16 IV. Technology: Impact on Reading
• 17 Environmental Impact and Sustainability OF ebooks and paper books
• 18 Paper Books vs. eBooks: Environmental Impact
• 19 Environmental Impact: Printed Books vs. eBooks
• 20 Sustainability: Considerations
• 21 Ebooks vs. Print Books: Consumer Preferences
• 22 Market Trends and Consumer Preferences
• 23 The Pros and Cons of Printed Books
• 24 The Pros and Cons of eBooks
• 25 The Reading Experience: Analysis
• 26 The Cost Factor: Printed Books vs. eBooks
• 27 Comprehensive Analysis and Conclusion
• 28 The Battle of Books: ebooks vs Printed
• 30 Printed Books:
• 31 Market Trends and Consumer Behavior:
• 32 Synthesis:
• 33 My TAKE AWAY

Tony Hoffman

Tony Hoffman is a tech expert with over 10 years of experience in the printer and scanner industries. He has developed a keen eye for the latest innovations and trends in printing technology making him a go-to resource for consumers and professionals alike. His engaging writing style and ability to break down complex topics make his articles and reviews accessible and informative for a wide range of readers. Outside of his work as a tech writer Tony enjoys tinkering with gadgets and exploring the outdoors. View Author posts

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Three-in-ten Americans now read e-books

Americans are spreading their book consumption across several formats. The share of adults who have read print books in the past 12 months still outpaces the share using other forms, but 30% now say they have read an e-book in that time frame.  

Overall, 75% of U.S. adults say they have read a book in the past 12 months in any format, whether completely or part way through, a figure that has remained largely unchanged since 2011, according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted from Jan. 25 to Feb. 8, 2021. Print books remain the most popular format for reading, with 65% of adults saying that they have read a print book in the past year.

While shares of print book readers and audiobook listeners remain mostly unchanged from a Center survey conducted in 2019, there has been an uptick in the share of Americans who report reading e-books, from 25% to 30%.

Pew Research Center has studied how Americans read books for years. For this analysis, we surveyed 1,502 U.S. adults from Jan. 25 to Feb. 8, 2021, by cellphone and landline phone. The survey was conducted by interviewers under the direction of Abt Associates and is weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race, ethnicity, education and other categories. Here are  the questions, responses and methodology used  for this analysis.

Americans read an average (mean) of roughly 14 books during the previous 12 months and the typical (median) American read five books in that period, according to the survey. These figures are identical to 2011 , when the Center first began conducting surveys of Americans’ book reading habits.  

Despite growth in certain digital formats, it remains the case that relatively few Americans only consume digital books (which include audiobooks and e-books) to the exclusion of print. Some 33% of Americans read in these digital formats and also read print books, while 32% say they read only print books. Just 9% of Americans say they only read books in digital formats and have not read any print books in the past 12 months.

Demographic differences in book reading in 2021 are similar to the patterns seen in past Center surveys . For example, adults who have a bachelor’s or advanced degree are more likely to be book readers than those who have only attended some college and those with a high school education or less, and adults ages 18 to 29 are more likely to read books than those 65 and older. At the same time, patterns of book consumption among a few groups changed since 2019. Some examples:

Adults with lower incomes – The share of adults with an annual household income of less than $30,000 who have listened to an audiobook has increased 8 percentage points since 2019 (22% vs. 14%).  

Urban adults – The share of American adults living in urban communities who say they have read a book in any format in the previous 12 months grew from 75% in 2019 to 81% now – an increase of 6 percentage points.

The table below covers how different groups reported their reading habits in the survey.

Note: Here are  the questions, responses and methodology used  for this analysis. This is an update of a post by Andrew Perrin originally published Sept. 1, 2016.

Michelle Faverio is a research analyst focusing on internet and technology research at Pew Research Center .

Andrew Perrin is a former research analyst focusing on internet and technology at Pew Research Center .

Facts on Foreign Students in the U.S.

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The Case for Paper: Books vs. E-Readers

Why a good old-fashioned book is better for your mental health..

Posted February 2, 2024 | Reviewed by Monica Vilhauer

• Research suggests that comprehension is six to eight times better with physical books than e-readers.
• Physical books help readers absorb and recall content more effectively.
• Turning pages as we read creates an “index” in the brain, mapping what we read visually to a particular page.
• Research shows that, despite the prevalence of technology, most people still prefer print books to e-readers.

Screens are replacing paper when it comes to nearly every aspect of communication, but is it good for our mental health? Research proves the countless mental health benefits of reading , but still most people are choosing screen-time over picking up a book when it comes to entertainment.

Even in schools, gone are the days of buying those stretchy book covers for your heavy textbooks; digital modalities of learning are taking precedence, lightening backpacks but burdening young minds with the challenge of staying on-task in a sea of digital distractions. Reading short blurbs on social media as we scroll inhibits not only our attention span, making lengthy books more arduous for our dopamine -addicted brains to digest, but often waters down the language, using more informal, conversational-style writing that offers much less exposure to rich, brain-boosting vocabulary and concepts.

Research suggests that comprehension is six to eight times better with physical books than e-readers (Altamura, L., Vargas, C., & Salmerón, L., 2023). Though many people find they can read faster on a device, the distractions, like social media scrolling, advertisements, and email notifications, often hinder memory retention. Physical books provide an immersive experience, resulting in readers who absorb and recall the content more effectively.

Holding the weight of a book in your hand, turning the pages, and even highlighting your favorite passages are all experienced in the body. In fact, according to researchers, turning pages as we read creates an “index” in the brain, mapping what we read visually to a particular page, (Rothkopf, Ernst Z.,1971). This is part of what allows the brain to retain the information better when read from a physical book.

From the way you position your body when holding a book, to the way your head and eyes adjust to scan the pages as they turn, there are distinct differences in the way our bodies experience reading a good old-fashioned book. “Print books and the substrate of paper lend an obvious physicality to individual texts, while e-books are not tangible volumes and are differently touched, held, carried and navigated,” wrote Mangen, A., and van der Weel, A. in “The evolution of reading in the age of digitisation: an integrative framework for reading research,” (2016, p. 116–124). “The haptic feedback of a touch screen is different from a paper book, and the implications of such interactions warrant empirical investigations. Studies in experimental psychology and neuroscience show that object manipulation provides spatial information which is crucial for building coherent mental representations of the manipulated object.”

In addition to improving comprehension and providing an immersive, embodied experience, reading physical books offers a uniquely social experience that e-readers miss out on. Whether you’re perusing the shelves at the bookstore, coffee in hand, asking your local librarian for recommendations from their collection, or passing along your copy of a favorite book to a friend, interacting with fellow book lovers is one of the aspects of reading that people most enjoy. Downloading books onto your e-reader bypasses these opportunities for connection.

Perhaps what is most salient is the undeniably strong preference most people have for reading printed books. In one study, 92 percent of students reportedly preferred print books over e-books (Baron, N. S., 2015). There’s something special about holding a book in your hand, admiring the cover art, even appreciating the way your bookmark visually advances with time spent turning the pages.

Altamura, L., Vargas, C., & Salmerón, L. (2023). Do New Forms of Reading Pay Off? A Meta-Analysis on the Relationship Between Leisure Digital Reading Habits and Text Comprehension. Review of Educational Research, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.3102/00346543231216463

Baron, N. S. (2015). Words onscreen: The fate of reading in a digital world. Oxford University Press.

Mangen, A., and van der Weel, A. (2016) The evolution of reading in the age of digitisation: an integrative framework for reading research. Literacy, 50: 116–124. doi: 10.1111/lit.12086 .

Rothkopf, Ernst Z. (1971) Incidental memory for location of information in text. Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior. Volume 10, Issue 6: Pages 608-613. ISSN 0022-5371, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0022-5371(71)80066-X .

Heather Rose Artushin, LISW-CP, is a child and family therapist passionate about the power of reading.

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Good e-Reader

Paper Books vs E-Books: The Science Behind the Better Way to Read

21 March 2024 By Markus Reily Leave a Comment

E-books have been around for more than 20 years, and the same goes for the debate whether they are better than paper books. Both formats have their advantages and disadvantages, so when choosing which one to go for, you should consider multiple factors.

Why E-Books May Be a Better Option?

Although paper books provide you with a reading experience which can never be beaten by e-books, the latter may be a more practical choice. Below, we discuss why electronic books may be the better way to read.

An Entire Library at Your Fingertips

One of the main reasons why e-books are a better option is the fact that they are accessible anywhere, anytime. With your e-reader, you can have a whole library at your fingertips, and even gain access to rare books you may not be able to find at physical bookstores.

E-books are easy to carry. While physical books can take a lot of space, which is especially inconvenient when travelling, you can carry multiple e-books on a single device wherever you go. Like a casino app for mobile gamblers, an e-reader is all you need to quench your thirst for reading.

Customizable

Another reason why e-books may be more convenient than their paper counterparts is the fact that you can customize them according to your needs. By adjusting the layout, font size and brightness, you can make an e-book easy on the eyes. This is one of the biggest differences between e-books and paper books, whose appearance you can’t change.

Advanced Features

Besides features that allow customization, e-books also let you use certain elements that can enhance the reading experience. For instance, some e-books come with embedded multimedia or hyperlinks that can help you understand the context better.

At the same time, you can highlight sentences and whole paragraphs, insert comments or bookmark favorite pages. E-books also come with a built-in dictionary you can use if you have difficulties to understand certain words.

Multi-Sensory Reading Experience

You may not be able to feel and smell paper when reading e-books , but that should not be a reason to give up on them. Most of them come with a built-in read-aloud feature. It can provide you with a multi-sensory experience, and enable you to listen to the book if you can’t focus on reading it. It also comes in handy for readers with certain disabilities, such as visual impairments or dyslexia.

Cost-Effective and Eco-Friendly Solution

E-books are cheaper as you don’t pay printing costs when buying them. Since no printing is involved, they have a positive environmental impact. It is estimated that a 10-inch-thick tree produces 20 to 30 books with 300 pages each. So, if you choose an e-book over a physical one, you will act in an environmentally friendly way and you can save some money.

Can E-Books Replace Paper Books?

Despite all the advantages of e-books, we are positive that they can never make their physical counterparts redundant. There will always be readers who prefer paper books , at least for nostalgic reasons. If you are one of them, you don’t have to worry. Paper books are here to stay and you will be able to enjoy them even if you occasionally go for an e-book.

Markus Reily

Markus lives in San Francisco, California and is the video game and audio expert on Good e-Reader! He has a huge interest in new e-readers and tablets, and gaming.

April 11, 2013

15 min read

The Reading Brain in the Digital Age: The Science of Paper versus Screens

E-readers and tablets are becoming more popular as such technologies improve, but research suggests that reading on paper still boasts unique advantages

By Ferris Jabr

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In a viral YouTube video from October 2011 a one-year-old girl sweeps her fingers across an iPad's touchscreen, shuffling groups of icons. In the following scenes she appears to pinch, swipe and prod the pages of paper magazines as though they too were screens. When nothing happens, she pushes against her leg, confirming that her finger works just fine—or so a title card would have us believe. The girl's father, Jean-Louis Constanza , presents "A Magazine Is an iPad That Does Not Work" as naturalistic observation—a Jane Goodall among the chimps moment—that reveals a generational transition. "Technology codes our minds," he writes in the video's description. "Magazines are now useless and impossible to understand, for digital natives"—that is, for people who have been interacting with digital technologies from a very early age. Perhaps his daughter really did expect the paper magazines to respond the same way an iPad would. Or maybe she had no expectations at all—maybe she just wanted to touch the magazines. Babies touch everything . Young children who have never seen a tablet like the iPad or an e-reader like the Kindle will still reach out and run their fingers across the pages of a paper book; they will jab at an illustration they like; heck, they will even taste the corner of a book. Today's so-called digital natives still interact with a mix of paper magazines and books, as well as tablets, smartphones and e-readers; using one kind of technology does not preclude them from understanding another. Nevertheless, the video brings into focus an important question: How exactly does the technology we use to read change the way we read? How reading on screens differs from reading on paper is relevant not just to the youngest among us , but to just about everyone who reads—to anyone who routinely switches between working long hours in front of a computer at the office and leisurely reading paper magazines and books at home; to people who have embraced e-readers for their convenience and portability, but admit that for some reason they still prefer reading on paper; and to those who have already vowed to forgo tree pulp entirely. As digital texts and technologies become more prevalent, we gain new and more mobile ways of reading—but are we still reading as attentively and thoroughly? How do our brains respond differently to onscreen text than to words on paper? Should we be worried about dividing our attention between pixels and ink or is the validity of such concerns paper-thin? Since at least the 1980s researchers in many different fields—including psychology, computer engineering, and library and information science—have investigated such questions in more than one hundred published studies. The matter is by no means settled. Before 1992 most studies concluded that people read slower, less accurately and less comprehensively on screens than on paper. Studies published since the early 1990s , however, have produced more inconsistent results: a slight majority has confirmed earlier conclusions, but almost as many have found few significant differences in reading speed or comprehension between paper and screens. And recent surveys suggest that although most people still prefer paper—especially when reading intensively—attitudes are changing as tablets and e-reading technology improve and reading digital books for facts and fun becomes more common. In the U.S., e-books currently make up between 15 and 20 percent of all trade book sales. Even so, evidence from laboratory experiments , polls and consumer reports indicates that modern screens and e-readers fail to adequately recreate certain tactile experiences of reading on paper that many people miss and, more importantly, prevent people from navigating long texts in an intuitive and satisfying way. In turn, such navigational difficulties may subtly inhibit reading comprehension. Compared with paper, screens may also drain more of our mental resources while we are reading and make it a little harder to remember what we read when we are done. A parallel line of research focuses on people's attitudes toward different kinds of media. Whether they realize it or not, many people approach computers and tablets with a state of mind less conducive to learning than the one they bring to paper.

"There is physicality in reading," says developmental psychologist and cognitive scientist Maryanne Wolf of Tufts University, "maybe even more than we want to think about as we lurch into digital reading—as we move forward perhaps with too little reflection. I would like to preserve the absolute best of older forms, but know when to use the new." Navigating textual landscapes Understanding how reading on paper is different from reading on screens requires some explanation of how the brain interprets written language. We often think of reading as a cerebral activity concerned with the abstract—with thoughts and ideas, tone and themes, metaphors and motifs. As far as our brains are concerned, however, text is a tangible part of the physical world we inhabit. In fact, the brain essentially regards letters as physical objects because it does not really have another way of understanding them. As Wolf explains in her book Proust and the Squid , we are not born with brain circuits dedicated to reading. After all, we did not invent writing until relatively recently in our evolutionary history, around the fourth millennium B.C. So the human brain improvises a brand-new circuit for reading by weaving together various regions of neural tissue devoted to other abilities, such as spoken language, motor coordination and vision. Some of these repurposed brain regions are specialized for object recognition —they are networks of neurons that help us instantly distinguish an apple from an orange, for example, yet classify both as fruit. Just as we learn that certain features—roundness, a twiggy stem, smooth skin—characterize an apple, we learn to recognize each letter by its particular arrangement of lines, curves and hollow spaces. Some of the earliest forms of writing, such as Sumerian cuneiform , began as characters shaped like the objects they represented —a person's head, an ear of barley, a fish. Some researchers see traces of these origins in modern alphabets: C as crescent moon, S as snake. Especially intricate characters—such as Chinese hanzi and Japanese kanji —activate motor regions in the brain involved in forming those characters on paper: The brain literally goes through the motions of writing when reading, even if the hands are empty. Researchers recently discovered that the same thing happens in a milder way when some people read cursive. Beyond treating individual letters as physical objects, the human brain may also perceive a text in its entirety as a kind of physical landscape. When we read, we construct a mental representation of the text in which meaning is anchored to structure. The exact nature of such representations remains unclear, but they are likely similar to the mental maps we create of terrain—such as mountains and trails—and of man-made physical spaces, such as apartments and offices. Both anecdotally and in published studies , people report that when trying to locate a particular piece of written information they often remember where in the text it appeared. We might recall that we passed the red farmhouse near the start of the trail before we started climbing uphill through the forest; in a similar way, we remember that we read about Mr. Darcy rebuffing Elizabeth Bennett on the bottom of the left-hand page in one of the earlier chapters. In most cases, paper books have more obvious topography than onscreen text. An open paperback presents a reader with two clearly defined domains—the left and right pages—and a total of eight corners with which to orient oneself. A reader can focus on a single page of a paper book without losing sight of the whole text: one can see where the book begins and ends and where one page is in relation to those borders. One can even feel the thickness of the pages read in one hand and pages to be read in the other. Turning the pages of a paper book is like leaving one footprint after another on the trail—there's a rhythm to it and a visible record of how far one has traveled. All these features not only make text in a paper book easily navigable, they also make it easier to form a coherent mental map of the text. In contrast, most screens, e-readers, smartphones and tablets interfere with intuitive navigation of a text and inhibit people from mapping the journey in their minds. A reader of digital text might scroll through a seamless stream of words, tap forward one page at a time or use the search function to immediately locate a particular phrase—but it is difficult to see any one passage in the context of the entire text. As an analogy, imagine if Google Maps allowed people to navigate street by individual street, as well as to teleport to any specific address, but prevented them from zooming out to see a neighborhood, state or country. Although e-readers like the Kindle and tablets like the iPad re-create pagination—sometimes complete with page numbers, headers and illustrations—the screen only displays a single virtual page: it is there and then it is gone. Instead of hiking the trail yourself, the trees, rocks and moss move past you in flashes with no trace of what came before and no way to see what lies ahead. "The implicit feel of where you are in a physical book turns out to be more important than we realized," says Abigail Sellen of Microsoft Research Cambridge in England and co-author of The Myth of the Paperless Office . "Only when you get an e-book do you start to miss it. I don't think e-book manufacturers have thought enough about how you might visualize where you are in a book." At least a few studies suggest that by limiting the way people navigate texts, screens impair comprehension. In a study published in January 2013 Anne Mangen of the University of Stavanger in Norway and her colleagues asked 72 10th-grade students of similar reading ability to study one narrative and one expository text, each about 1,500 words in length. Half the students read the texts on paper and half read them in pdf files on computers with 15-inch liquid-crystal display (LCD) monitors. Afterward, students completed reading-comprehension tests consisting of multiple-choice and short-answer questions, during which they had access to the texts. Students who read the texts on computers performed a little worse than students who read on paper. Based on observations during the study, Mangen thinks that students reading pdf files had a more difficult time finding particular information when referencing the texts. Volunteers on computers could only scroll or click through the pdfs one section at a time, whereas students reading on paper could hold the text in its entirety in their hands and quickly switch between different pages. Because of their easy navigability, paper books and documents may be better suited to absorption in a text. "The ease with which you can find out the beginning, end and everything inbetween and the constant connection to your path, your progress in the text, might be some way of making it less taxing cognitively, so you have more free capacity for comprehension," Mangen says. Supporting this research, surveys indicate that screens and e-readers interfere with two other important aspects of navigating texts: serendipity and a sense of control. People report that they enjoy flipping to a previous section of a paper book when a sentence surfaces a memory of something they read earlier, for example, or quickly scanning ahead on a whim. People also like to have as much control over a text as possible—to highlight with chemical ink, easily write notes to themselves in the margins as well as deform the paper however they choose. Because of these preferences—and because getting away from multipurpose screens improves concentration—people consistently say that when they really want to dive into a text, they read it on paper. In a 2011 survey of graduate students at National Taiwan University, the majority reported browsing a few paragraphs online before printing out the whole text for more in-depth reading. A 2008 survey of millennials (people born between 1980 and the early 2000s) at Salve Regina University in Rhode Island concluded that, "when it comes to reading a book, even they prefer good, old-fashioned print". And in a 2003 study conducted at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, nearly 80 percent of 687 surveyed students preferred to read text on paper as opposed to on a screen in order to "understand it with clarity". Surveys and consumer reports also suggest that the sensory experiences typically associated with reading—especially tactile experiences—matter to people more than one might assume. Text on a computer, an e-reader and—somewhat ironically—on any touch-screen device is far more intangible than text on paper. Whereas a paper book is made from pages of printed letters fixed in a particular arrangement, the text that appears on a screen is not part of the device's hardware—it is an ephemeral image. When reading a paper book, one can feel the paper and ink and smooth or fold a page with one's fingers; the pages make a distinctive sound when turned; and underlining or highlighting a sentence with ink permanently alters the paper's chemistry. So far, digital texts have not satisfyingly replicated this kind of tactility (although some companies are innovating, at least with keyboards ). Paper books also have an immediately discernible size, shape and weight. We might refer to a hardcover edition of War and Peace as a hefty tome or a paperback Heart of Darkness as a slim volume. In contrast, although a digital text has a length—which is sometimes represented with a scroll or progress bar—it has no obvious shape or thickness. An e-reader always weighs the same, regardless of whether you are reading Proust's magnum opus or one of Hemingway's short stories. Some researchers have found that these discrepancies create enough " haptic dissonance " to dissuade some people from using e-readers. People expect books to look, feel and even smell a certain way; when they do not, reading sometimes becomes less enjoyable or even unpleasant. For others, the convenience of a slim portable e-reader outweighs any attachment they might have to the feel of paper books. Exhaustive reading Although many old and recent studies conclude that people understand what they read on paper more thoroughly than what they read on screens, the differences are often small. Some experiments, however, suggest that researchers should look not just at immediate reading comprehension, but also at long-term memory. In a 2003 study Kate Garland of the University of Leicester and her colleagues asked 50 British college students to read study material from an introductory economics course either on a computer monitor or in a spiral-bound booklet. After 20 minutes of reading Garland and her colleagues quizzed the students with multiple-choice questions. Students scored equally well regardless of the medium, but differed in how they remembered the information. Psychologists distinguish between remembering something—which is to recall a piece of information along with contextual details, such as where, when and how one learned it—and knowing something, which is feeling that something is true without remembering how one learned the information. Generally, remembering is a weaker form of memory that is likely to fade unless it is converted into more stable, long-term memory that is "known" from then on. When taking the quiz, volunteers who had read study material on a monitor relied much more on remembering than on knowing, whereas students who read on paper depended equally on remembering and knowing. Garland and her colleagues think that students who read on paper learned the study material more thoroughly more quickly; they did not have to spend a lot of time searching their minds for information from the text, trying to trigger the right memory—they often just knew the answers. Other researchers have suggested that people comprehend less when they read on a screen because screen-based reading is more physically and mentally taxing than reading on paper. E-ink is easy on the eyes because it reflects ambient light just like a paper book, but computer screens, smartphones and tablets like the iPad shine light directly into people's faces. Depending on the model of the device, glare, pixilation and flickers can also tire the eyes. LCDs are certainly gentler on eyes than their predecessor, cathode-ray tubes (CRT), but prolonged reading on glossy self-illuminated screens can cause eyestrain, headaches and blurred vision. Such symptoms are so common among people who read on screens—affecting around 70 percent of people who work long hours in front of computers—that the American Optometric Association officially recognizes computer vision syndrome . Erik Wästlund of Karlstad University in Sweden has conducted some particularly rigorous research on whether paper or screens demand more physical and cognitive resources. In one of his experiments 72 volunteers completed the Higher Education Entrance Examination READ test—a 30-minute, Swedish-language reading-comprehension exam consisting of multiple-choice questions about five texts averaging 1,000 words each. People who took the test on a computer scored lower and reported higher levels of stress and tiredness than people who completed it on paper. In another set of experiments 82 volunteers completed the READ test on computers, either as a paginated document or as a continuous piece of text. Afterward researchers assessed the students' attention and working memory, which is a collection of mental talents that allow people to temporarily store and manipulate information in their minds. Volunteers had to quickly close a series of pop-up windows, for example, sort virtual cards or remember digits that flashed on a screen. Like many cognitive abilities, working memory is a finite resource that diminishes with exertion. Although people in both groups performed equally well on the READ test, those who had to scroll through the continuous text did not do as well on the attention and working-memory tests. Wästlund thinks that scrolling—which requires a reader to consciously focus on both the text and how they are moving it—drains more mental resources than turning or clicking a page, which are simpler and more automatic gestures. A 2004 study conducted at the University of Central Florida reached similar conclusions. Attitude adjustments An emerging collection of studies emphasizes that in addition to screens possibly taxing people's attention more than paper, people do not always bring as much mental effort to screens in the first place. Subconsciously, many people may think of reading on a computer or tablet as a less serious affair than reading on paper. Based on a detailed 2005 survey of 113 people in northern California, Ziming Liu of San Jose State University concluded that people reading on screens take a lot of shortcuts—they spend more time browsing, scanning and hunting for keywords compared with people reading on paper, and are more likely to read a document once, and only once. When reading on screens, people seem less inclined to engage in what psychologists call metacognitive learning regulation—strategies such as setting specific goals, rereading difficult sections and checking how much one has understood along the way. In a 2011 experiment at the Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, college students took multiple-choice exams about expository texts either on computers or on paper. Researchers limited half the volunteers to a meager seven minutes of study time; the other half could review the text for as long as they liked. When under pressure to read quickly, students using computers and paper performed equally well. When managing their own study time, however, volunteers using paper scored about 10 percentage points higher. Presumably, students using paper approached the exam with a more studious frame of mind than their screen-reading peers, and more effectively directed their attention and working memory. Perhaps, then, any discrepancies in reading comprehension between paper and screens will shrink as people's attitudes continue to change. The star of "A Magazine Is an iPad That Does Not Work" is three-and-a-half years old today and no longer interacts with paper magazines as though they were touchscreens, her father says. Perhaps she and her peers will grow up without the subtle bias against screens that seems to lurk in the minds of older generations. In current research for Microsoft, Sellen has learned that many people do not feel much ownership of e-books because of their impermanence and intangibility: "They think of using an e-book, not owning an e-book," she says. Participants in her studies say that when they really like an electronic book, they go out and get the paper version. This reminds Sellen of people's early opinions of digital music, which she has also studied. Despite initial resistance, people love curating, organizing and sharing digital music today. Attitudes toward e-books may transition in a similar way, especially if e-readers and tablets allow more sharing and social interaction than they currently do. Books on the Kindle can only be loaned once , for example. To date, many engineers, designers and user-interface experts have worked hard to make reading on an e-reader or tablet as close to reading on paper as possible. E-ink resembles chemical ink and the simple layout of the Kindle's screen looks like a page in a paperback. Likewise, Apple's iBooks attempts to simulate the overall aesthetic of paper books, including somewhat realistic page-turning. Jaejeung Kim of KAIST Institute of Information Technology Convergence in South Korea and his colleagues have designed an innovative and unreleased interface that makes iBooks seem primitive. When using their interface, one can see the many individual pages one has read on the left side of the tablet and all the unread pages on the right side, as if holding a paperback in one's hands. A reader can also flip bundles of pages at a time with a flick of a finger. But why, one could ask, are we working so hard to make reading with new technologies like tablets and e-readers so similar to the experience of reading on the very ancient technology that is paper? Why not keep paper and evolve screen-based reading into something else entirely? Screens obviously offer readers experiences that paper cannot. Scrolling may not be the ideal way to navigate a text as long and dense as Moby Dick , but the New York Times , Washington Post , ESPN and other media outlets have created beautiful, highly visual articles that depend entirely on scrolling and could not appear in print in the same way. Some Web comics and infographics turn scrolling into a strength rather than a weakness. Similarly, Robin Sloan has pioneered the tap essay for mobile devices. The immensely popular interactive Scale of the Universe tool could not have been made on paper in any practical way. New e-publishing companies like Atavist offer tablet readers long-form journalism with embedded interactive graphics, maps, timelines, animations and sound tracks. And some writers are pairing up with computer programmers to produce ever more sophisticated interactive fiction and nonfiction in which one's choices determine what one reads, hears and sees next. When it comes to intensively reading long pieces of plain text, paper and ink may still have the advantage. But text is not the only way to read.

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Books vs. e-books: The science behind the best way to read

By Amy Kraft

December 14, 2015 / 6:00 AM EST / CBS News

While browsing the bookstore to buy a gift for that special someone (or yourself), you may be faced with a tough decision: e-books or the old-fashioned kind? Each one has its pros and cons, and choosing the best option depends on a number of factors.

Some of the practical advantages of going digital are obvious: A portable little e-reader can carry an entire library wherever you go, which is great for travelers or those who always want a choice of reading material.

On the other hand, research has been stacking up to show that reading on paper has a number of benefits, too. Plus, there's the nostalgia factor .

"First and foremost, consider the person and their lifelong preferences," Dr. Matthew H. Schneps, director of the Laboratory for Visual Learning, a collaboration between the University of Massachusetts Boston and MIT, told CBS News in an email. "Some people absolutely love the look, smell, and feel of the classical book held in the hand, and such people may not want to give up the sensory experience of reading from a paper book. If the recipient of your gift is someone who is adventurous when it comes to gadgets, but otherwise doesn't read much using traditional books, giving the gift of an e-reader can be a life-changing experience for them."

Here's a look at some of the science to consider before you spring for a Kindle, a Nook or a stack of new hardcovers.

Young, reluctant readers prefer e-readers

A 2014 study published in the journal Library & Information Science Research found that out of 143 10th grade students, most preferred e-readers . Boys and those who did not care much for reading also shared a strong preference for e-readers.

"An e-reader has more in common with the electronic devices that young people use all the time, like smartphones or iPads, than a paper book, when it comes to turning of pages, the possibilities of adjusting font size, etc.," lead author of the study, Åse Kristine Tveit, told CBS News in an email.

Reading on paper may boost retention

Several small studies suggest that reading on paper instead of an electronic screen is better for memory retention and focus. The Guardian reported on an experiment from Norway where people were given a short story to read either on a Kindle or in a paperback book; when they were quizzed later, those who read the paperback were more likely to remember plot points in the right order.

"When you read on paper you can sense with your fingers a pile of pages on the left growing, and shrinking on the right," the lead researcher, Anne Mangen, of Norway's Stavanger University, told the Guardian. "You have the tactile sense of progress ... Perhaps this somehow aids the reader, providing more fixity and solidity to the reader's sense of unfolding and progress of the text, and hence the story."

Paper suits readers with sleep problems and eye strain

High levels of screen luminance from an electronic device can contribute to visual fatigue, a condition marked by tired, itching, burning eyes.

There are also potential considerations for those reading e-books on light-emitting e-readers at night (although a number of e-readers do not use light-emitting screens), Dr. Margaret K. Merga, a reading and education specialist in Australia, told CBS News in an email. "Artificial light exposure from light-emitting e-readers may interfere with users' ability to sleep , ultimately leading to adverse impacts on health."

A 2014 study published in the journal PNAS found that reading an e-book before bedtime decreased the production of melatonin, a hormone that preps the body for sleep. E-books also impaired alertness the following day.

E-books help the visually impaired

Individuals with poor eyesight or reading disorders like dyslexia can benefit more from e-books because they provide a range of options for changing the text size and spacing of lines. A 2013 study in the journal PLOS One observed reading comprehension and speed in 103 high school students with dyslexia. The study found that people with dyslexia read more effectively, and with greater ease, when using the e-reader compared with reading on paper.

Schneps, who was the lead author on the paper, said, "What made the difference was the ability of the device to display lines of text that were extremely short (about two or three words per line), as well as its ability to space out the text. When these people read using the modified formatting, their reading instantly improved."

His team has a website where people can preview the effects of some of these features before making a purchase. Try out the interactive tips at readeasy.labvislearn.org .

A fondness for books

Many book-lovers still prefer the traditional option and value the tactile sensation of a bound paper book. "Paper books are, as a rule, very well designed, they look and smell good, and they carry with them a more human touch," Tveit said.

In Merga's experience with students in Australia, avid readers also tend to prefer reading on paper. While conducting the West Australian Study in Adolescent Book Reading (WASABR), Merga and colleagues found that students preferred reading paper books. "One student described this attitude as a preference to 'own something (rather) than just use it,'" Merga said.

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Evidence increases for reading on paper instead of screens

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Virginia Clinton prefers to read on a screen. Her love affair with digital texts began when she was a new mother, juggling the workload of a young academic with diapers and feedings. “I have warm, fuzzy memories of rocking my babies to sleep and reading one-handed on my phone,” Clinton said.

As an assistant professor of education at the University of North Dakota, Clinton had encouraged her students to save money on textbooks and buy cheaper digital versions or use free materials online. Her research specialty was reading comprehension. According to theories she learned in graduate school, she recalled, there should be no difference between reading on paper and reading on a screen.

But many of her education students told her they preferred paper, she said. Clinton decided to delve into at all the studies published since 2008 about reading on screens. She compiled results from 33 high-quality studies that tested students’ comprehension after they were randomly assigned to read on a screen or on paper and found that her students might be right.

The studies showed that students of all ages, from elementary school to college, tend to absorb more when they’re reading on paper than on screens, particularly when it comes to nonfiction material. “Sometimes you should print it out, especially if it’s long,” said Clinton.

Clinton now tells her students to order the book if they prefer reading paper. “It’s enough of a benefit that it’s worth the paper and ink and the cost of the book,” she said.

Related: A textbook dilemma: Digital or paper?

The benefit for reading on paper was rather small, after averaging the studies together, Clinton said. But 29 of the 33 laboratory studies found that readers learned more from text on paper.

Clinton’s analysis , published earlier in 2019, is now at least the third study to synthesize reputable research on reading comprehension in the digital age and find that paper is better. It was preceded by a 2017 review by scholars at the University of Maryland and a 2018 meta-analysis by scholars in Spain and Israel. The international analysis arrived at nearly the same numerical conclusion as Clinton’s study. Paper beat screens by more than a fifth of a standard deviation. (Scholars argue over how to interpret these statistical units. For controlled laboratory studies like these, it’s a small advantage.)

The mounting research evidence against screens is important because it clashes with textbook publishers’ long-term plans to emphasize digital texts. Pearson, the largest textbook publisher in North America, announced in July 2019 that it was moving to a “ digital first” strategy . Books will still be available to rent but students will be discouraged from buying them by higher prices, fewer updates and limited availability.

This reading research also runs counter to well-intended advice for students to save money. A July 2019 report from the National Association of College Stores shows a record high 22 percent of college students are using free online course materials, up from 3 percent in 2015. Thanks to free online texts, overall spending on materials has decreased.

For proponents of digital texts, there is plenty to quibble about in the current research. The studies that Clinton included in her analysis didn’t allow students to take advantage of the extra bells and whistles that digital texts can potentially offer. Some argue that these add-ons — such as pop-up quizzes in the middle of a reading passage to check for comprehension or instant definitions of unfamiliar words  — are what give digital text an edge. In Clinton’s underlying studies, students could only interact with a digital text as they do on paper. That pretty much restricted students to highlighting and note taking.

“My findings weren’t fair to screens because the screens couldn’t offer everything they could,” Clinton said. “They were really just a shiny piece of paper.”

Still, there isn’t yet convincing proof that the digital add-ons improve reading comprehension or even match the reading comprehension that students can achieve with text on paper. Well-designed studies to test this don’t exist.  Clinton is planning to study reading comprehension with digital add-ons in her laboratory to see if digital texts will get better results.

Why students don’t read as well on screens is a fascinating question. Some experts think the glare and flicker of screens tax the brain more than paper. Others argue that spatial memory for the location of a passage or a chart on a physical paper page can help a student recall information. Digital distraction and the temptation to browse or multi-task is an obvious problem in the real world. But internet browsing or app checking wasn’t allowed in the controlled conditions of these laboratory studies.

The Maryland researchers who conducted the 2017 review thought that people were reading too fast on screens. But in Clinton’s collection of studies, she didn’t find any difference in reading time between the two formats.

Instead, Clinton suspects that the problem might be one of rampant self-delusion by screen readers. In many of the lab studies, readers answered questions on how well they thought they had performed in the experiment. Screen readers consistently overestimated their reading comprehension. Paper readers were more accurate in their self-judgments.

The excessive confidence of screen readers is important, Clinton said, because people who overestimate their abilities are likely to put in less effort. The less effort a person puts into a reading passage, the less they are likely to comprehend. That’s because reading comprehension, like all learning, isn’t easy and requires work.

Genre also matters. When Clinton separated out the studies that had students read narrative fiction, there was no benefit to paper over screens. (So, go ahead and read Jane Austen on a Kindle.) But for nonfiction information texts, the advantage for paper stands out.

What does this mean for teachers and parents? That depends a bit on the student’s age, Clinton said. For college students, she advises picking the format they personally prefer. For most students, that will be paper.

But increasingly, there won’t always be a paper version. And this is where Clinton recommends that professors take extra time to show students how to read a digital text more effectively by, for example, periodically self-checking for comprehension.

Usually elementary and high school teachers don’t have the flexibility to offer a text both ways. When forced to teach with a digital text, Clinton advises teachers to have students “explain more what they’re reading.”

“Ideally, I would like to see both [paper and digital] in the classroom,” she said. “That way kids are developing screen and technology skills and they’re also learning and getting the help of paper for developing reading skills.”

Her advice to parents is to remember that any reading — screen or paper — is good for children. Clinton says her own children like the games they can play as rewards as they move through an e-book series. Those kind of rewards can sometimes motivate kids to read more. “But if you have a child who has a hard time focusing when they’re reading — that complaint is common with screens — then paper might be helpful,” she said.

Clinton said both parents and teachers need to teach children how to manage and regulate their behavior on screens in order to benefit from them.

In the meantime, the researcher herself remains a screen reader. “I don’t like paper,” Clinton said, “because I keep losing it.”

This story about paper vs. digital reading was written by Jill Barshay and produced by The Hechinger Report , a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education. Sign up for the  Hechinger newsletter .

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You can not imagine how many times I have argued this point in meetings, workshops, and conversations with younger teachers boasting “paperless classrooms” as the newest wave in education!!! Reading comprehension is just not there for most children reading on screens!!!! And students continue to need paper and pen to organize ideas for writing essays! Keep the evidence coming in support of paper learning along with the newest technologies!

I am a research and have to read thick technical books all the time. I absolutely agree with Riposta because using digital books are no different to turning on a computer while studying. The amount of distraction just made me turn off my computer so I can stay focused because there are so much information online. Reading technical information on paper with highlighters and pencil allows me to visualize the theory into diagrams while reading and this becomes logic to solutions just by looking at the problems. Reading digitally is no different from reading off internet but the advantage of digital book is people can copy and paste from digital books to word processors instead of highlighting to condense a book into personal notes. The screen really is taxing brain power to focus on materials like reading insurance details and legal documents.

I think that the glass is half full and not half empty. A number of meta-analyses and literature reviews have found that there is no negative effect for the reading of (long ) narrative texts. Meanwhile, for K-12 students reading of narrative texts (fiction) is associated with a number of better outcomes, including higher PISA scores. For adolescents the conclusion might equally be ”Read more fiction and don’t worry about the medium”.. or as the they say – Take care of the pennies and pounds will take care of themselves.

I highly value reading on hard paper, but I am not sure if it is because I am a product of the 90s and grew up in a paper-only educational environment. Today, when I have to read anything over 10 pages, I absorb it so much better on printed paper. I like to highlight, use my pen to guide my way through the sentences, turn the page, write notes on the side…it is much less stressful and overwhelming than seeing a tiny slider on the side of my screen showing how little progress I’ve made, and how much more eye strain I must endure. I’ve also noticed my attention span is significantly slimmer when reading on a screen versus paper. I have wondered if there is more to it neurologically, if some minds respond adversely to screens and therefore, it is a deterrent to meaningful learning. I don’t think paper versions of texts should die out, but stay as a method for those of us who prefer it!

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• An Overview
• Recent History

Print Books

• Publishing Industry
• Personal Finance

The Bottom Line

• Budgeting & Savings

E-Books vs. Print Books: Which Should You Choose?

E-books vs. print books: an overview.

E-books have become a mainstay of the publishing industry. However, the demise of printed books as a result of the introduction of e-books has not materialized as some may have predicted.

Still, in 2022, total revenue from published decreased 2.6% from the year prior, and both formats of books experienced decreases in revenue. Let's take a deeper look at both options and the publishing industry in general.

Key Takeaways

• Print books have the feel of a book that many readers love. You can hold it, turn the pages, and feel the paper.
• Illustrations on paper are generally higher quality than even high-end e-readers can reproduce.
• E-books come with font style and size flexibility.
• E-readers can store thousands of books on a single device.
• The publishing industry experienced a 2.6% decline in revenue in 2022, with both e-books and print books having declined in revenue generated.

Recent History of Print Books and E-Books

According to the Association of American Publishers, e-book sales in the U.S. declined slightly to $983 million in 2019 from a year earlier. The lower growth rate followed several years of double-digit declines in e-book sales. Hardcover and paperback books still rule the market, with approximately $3 billion and 2.5 billion in sales in 2019, respectively.

The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic was a boon to print publishing. Sales rose 8.2% year over year to a total of 751 million copies, according to Printing Impressions, a publishing industry journal. More leisure time and a need to educate children at home were cited as reasons for the book-buying spree.

2022 brought about several unique trends. First, paperback and hardback revenue both decreased, with hardback coming in 13.6% less than the year before. E-books also declined, falling 6.5%. It's interesting to note that digital audio revenue grew 71.7% from 2021 to 2022.

Print books have the feel of a book that many readers love. You can hold it, turn the pages, and feel the paper. People who love to read spend a lifetime acquiring books. They may find it wrenching to abandon their shelves of books for a single slab of plastic.

Readers may also compare the quality of illustrations between the two formats and find the print versions superior. The New Annotated Sherlock Holmes can be bought in either hardcover or Kindle versions but readers may find the Kindle version lacking due to the shrunken size of the illustrations and the relative clumsiness of toggling between story text and annotations.

Some readers also experience some eye strain using an electronic device instead of a printed book.

Books on paper are difficult to carry around, especially hardcovers. If you're an avid reader and you're going on a trip, or if you're just stepping out to a coffee shop, an e-reader or iPad is a far lighter burden than a book or a stack of them.

An e-book might be priced about the same or differently than a printed book. Because of the difference in format, there is an entirely different economic consideration for the good.

There's also the satisfaction of having an entire library at your fingertips, not to mention an infinite supply just a click away, ready to download instantly.

In addition, e-book buyers have the advantage that the internet gives consumers of any products: No space constraints. Just about everything ever published is available, all the time.

There are some drawbacks. You must recharge an e-reader or any other electronic device. Some screens are not easily readable in sunlight. And, if you are one of the millions who spend the entire workday in front of a computer, reading your favorite author on a computer screen in the evening may not appeal.

Beyond Amazon

Avid e-book readers can stray beyond Amazon or Barnes and Noble and read for free.

The nonprofit Project Gutenberg offers 70,000 free downloadable books, most of them classics well beyond their copyright protection expiration dates. The site Free Classic Books offers just that, in an alphabetized list from Alcott, Louisa M., to Wodehouse, P.G.

Google Books also brags that it has more than 10 million books available to download for free, including textbooks and government documents as well as literary classics.

Special Considerations: The Publishing Business

E-books may omit some of the traditional costs of publishing, but it imposes other costs. Added technology costs involve formatting the e-book so that various electronic devices and browsers can properly download and store the book.

Whether it's printed or downloaded, a percentage of the e-book price must be paid to online sellers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. This can be anywhere from 30% to 50% of the sale price.

The Independent Route

Smaller publishers and independent authors have more leeway with pricing, but they still have many of the same costs. They must give a percentage of their e-book sales to the online distributor, and unless they are graphic designers, they must hire an illustrator to create their cover art.

Most independent authors have to hire someone to convert their books into e-book format. Plus, they still have the marketing and promotional costs that are required to get their books noticed. However, e-books are overall lower in cost to produce, and that is typically reflected in their lower price than print editions.

Print Books, E-Books, and Personal Finance

With the overview of the industry behind us, let's talk about the finances of owning books. There's a handful of personal finance considerations to make about which to buy.

Upfront Cost

Purchasing an e-reader may involve a higher initial investment than buying a single printed book. However, the economic advantage lies in the long-term savings as e-books may be priced lower than their physical counterparts (as they may cost less to produce). The upfront cost of an e-reader can be considered a one-time expense, and PCMag has several e-reader recommendations that cost less than $100 in 2024.

Subscription Costs

Subscription services like Kindle Unlimited or Audible offer a cost-effective way to access a vast library of e-books. From an economic standpoint, these services can significantly reduce the per-book cost for avid readers, making it a financially smart move as opposed to buying individual books. However, you will not retain ownership during this subscription period, and you won't keep books like you otherwise would like a print book. Note that this section is not consider subscription costs for print books (like a free library card).

Book Resale Value

The resale value of physical books adds an economic dimension to owning a print collection. Used bookstores, online platforms, and book swaps provide avenues for recovering some of the initial investment in printed books. E-books, unfortunately, lack a resale market, making them less financially flexible in this regard.

Storage Costs

Physical books incur storage costs in terms of space requirements and furniture like bookshelves. The economic advantage of e-books is they eliminate the need for physical storage, meaning readers to amass a vast collection without incurring additional expenses. Just think about how much it may cost to move those physical books if you need to relocate homes.

Environmental Cost

From an economic perspective, the environmental impact of printed books, including production and disposal costs, contributes to the overall expense. E-books, unfortunately, may not be as sustainable as some may think. Between the fossil fuels and continual need for electricity, e-books stlll contribute to environmental costs in a different way than printed books.

Production and Distribution Costs

The cost of producing and distributing physical books encompasses expenses related to paper, printing, transportation, and warehousing. E-books sidestep these costs, offering a potentially more economically efficient model for publishers and authors. Though the costs may range and vary based on each book and genre, some unofficial estimates have the total cost to self-publish a book to be several thousands of dollars.

Accessability

The economic advantage of e-books in terms of accessibility is evident for readers with visual impairments. Digital formats allow for features like adjustable text size and screen-reading technology, enhancing the reading experience for a broader audience. Perhaps it for this reason that 25% of U.S. consumers listen to audiobooks.

Change in Preference

Changes in reading habits have implications for e-books and printed book owners. Think of someone who's preference may shift from one genre to another very quickly. If this sounds like you, having greater flexibility with electronic media may make more financial sense.

Which Is More Cost-Effective in the Long Run: Buying E-books or Printed Books?

The long-term cost-effectiveness of buying e-books versus printed books depends on factors such as individual reading habits, the frequency of book purchases, and the availability of discounts. While e-books often have a higher upfront cost with the purchase of an e-reader, the generally lower prices of digital copies may result in greater savings over time, especially for avid readers who buy books regularly.

Is There a Significant Difference in the Resale Value of E-books and Printed Books?

Printed books often have a resale market, allowing readers to recoup some of the initial investment. In contrast, e-books lack a formal resale market due to licensing restrictions.

What Is the Impact of E-books on Local Bookstores From an Economic Standpoint?

The rise of e-books has had a notable impact on local bookstores, with potential economic challenges such as decreased foot traffic and competition from online retailers. However, many independent, small bookstores are partnering with affiliate partners to allow patrons to buy e-books.

E-books offer a potentially cost-effective solution for avid readers. The absence of physical production costs, reduced storage needs, and frequent digital promotions may make a digital library more cost effective. On the other hand, printed books may have resale value, no subscription cost, and greater sentimental appeal to old-fashioned readers. There are many factors to consider when choosing between e-books and printed books from a financial perspective.

Association of American Publishers. " AAP StatShot Annual Report: Publishing Revenues Totaled $28.10 Billion for 2022 ."

David Derrico. " Cost Breakdowns: E-Books vs. Printed Books ."

Association of American Publishers. " AAP StatShot: Trade Book Publisher Revenue Increased by 4.6% in 2018 ."

Association of American Publishers. " AAP DECEMBER 2019 STATSHOT REPORT: PUBLISHING INDUSTRY UP 1.8% FOR CY2019 ."

PIWorld. " Pandemic Drives Printed Book Sales in the US to Highest Level in a Decade ."

Project Gutenberg. " Welcome to Project Gutenberg ."

Google Books. " About Google Books ."

Barnes & Noble Press. " Make More Money by Self-Publishing with B&N Press ."

Kindle. " Digital Pricing Page ."

PCMag. " The Best Cheap Tablets for 2024 ."

Kindlepreneur. " How Much Does It Cost to Publish a Book? "

Row House Publishing. " Key Book Publishing Trends to Explore in 2023 ."

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Paper Books vs eBooks Statistics, Trends and Facts – 2021

From TonerBuzz:

Paper books vs eBooks statistics show print is here to stay!

Dead tree editions just won’t die.

Like the monster in a horror movie,  print books just won’t die . The most recent paper books vs eBooks statistics, research, and surveys back this up.

Print books are here to stay!

Let’s look at the most important eBook vs print book statistics, key differences between print and e-books, and where American publishers are taking the industry.

Popularity Contest: Books Versus Print Books

Are print books still popular? You’d better believe it!

According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center on book consumption and book formats, traditional print is still the most popular reading format for both adults and children.

Survey says:

• 72%  of adults in the United States read a book in some format over the last year
• 65%  of respondents claimed they read a book in the last 12 months
• 37%  of Americans claim they only read print books
• 28%  say they read both print books and e-books
• 7%  say they only read e-books

Demographics: Reader vs E-Reader

Book reading demographics vary according to education and income level.

College graduates make up  90% of book readers , while  only 61%  of high school graduates read books.

Those who dropped out of school have an even lower readership rate – a mere  32% .

Economics goes hand-in-hand with education. Individuals earning over $75,000 a year make up  86%  of readers, while well those earning less than $30,000 annually make up only  62% .

Physical books are still the top moneymakers for publishers. 

Publishing market research shows the economic juggernaut of traditional books. While publishers are experimenting with different media formats — especially audiobooks — they are still investing the bulk of their marketing efforts into physical book sales.

And they should…there’s still big money in old-fashioned publishing!

• Books sales revenue in 2019 totaled  $26 billion
• Physical books generated  74.7%  of the total revenue
• E-books accounted for only  7.48%  of the revenue
• The remaining part of the revenue was generated by other formats like audiobooks

Source: The Association of American Publishers (AAP)

Link to the rest at TonerBuzz

PG notes that TonerBuzz is an ecommerce seller of toner and ink.

11 thoughts on “Paper Books vs eBooks Statistics, Trends and Facts – 2021”

Re: The Benefits of Print Books

People like them on their shelves or displayed elsewhere. Note that KDP is adding hardcover printing.

Expensive decor. This should do the job just fine for much less in the age of Zoom.

https://us.amazon.com/Yija-Self-Adhesive-Bookshelf-Peel-Stick-Backsplash/dp/B07LGPCFSN/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=26VZCI8WTQS17&dchild=1&keywords=book+wallpaper&qid=1633881805&sprefix=book+wa&sr=8-3

I love the final bullet: “PLEASE NOTED: Buy enough rolls at a time to make sure they come from the same batch to avoid color difference.” In case you want to a whole wall. No actual books required.

Two other notes:

#1 – Never, ever look at revenues when evaluating the health of a business. The first cut is to look at their gross margin . The first is essentially cash in – the second is cash in less cash out. If they aren’t getting at least as much cash in as they’re sending cash out, they’re heading for bankruptcy court, no matter how big the first number is.

#2 – While the OP doesn’t show 2020 – their chart shows a 1.1% increase in revenues in 2019. While I can’t easily find a number for inflation in just the publishing industry, that is quite a bit less than the CPI in 2019, which was 1.76%. That is a decrease in real revenue.

Addendum – I thought this might have been an old article, which would have explained the numbers only through 2019. Nope, the OP is dated in April of this year. Hmm…

About number 2: That is the industry standard. They *never* report inflation-adjusted (or merger-adjusted) numbers. Mostly because the numbers would be embarrasing.

Check this table:

https://inflationdata.com/Inflation/Inflation_Rate/HistoricalInflation.aspx#table

From a modern business standpoint, impossible. You would have to separate out where the revenues end up going – and then calculate by region (not even country – for instance, the inflation rate in California is approximately one and a half times that here in Arizona). An accounting nightmare.

But, yes, they would be embarrassing in many industries.

True… …if you want fine grained investment-grade numbers. But theirs aren’t. They’re geographically and format aggregated to hide their weaknesses. Those kinds of numbers are adequately judged against the national inflation rate (1.5-3.5%) to deflate any claims of growth.

They’re locked into a “genteel” stagnancy that lets them hold up a facade of adequacy. The reality is that unlike pretty much every other business they don’t have to worry about hungry startups coming in to try to eat their lunch because there is no lunch to take away. Stagnancy (and Amazon) are their perfect protection against competition. As long as they can feed the maw of their rent-seeking overlords, they don’t actually need growth. Any pretense of same is just posturing.

No lunch to take away – well put. But Amazon is busy hoovering up the crumbs – note that they are now doing hardcover POD. As of yet, not quite to the point of completely replacing what a commercial printer puts out: you can’t have your book slip covered, with embossing and foiling – but a year or two from now? I’ve seen some hints about technology to make extremely short runs affordable there.

Of course, if – as we’ve discussed elsewhere – supply chain issues are not resolved down to fairly low profit margin levels, people like the OP may find themselves forced to make a deal with the Devil. Getting chips for the Kindles are certainly going to be a higher priority for Amazon than paper for the POD machines.

If we’re going to stick with the cafeteria talk, Amazon is going after breakfast. Specifically: Ingram and folks going wide.

I doubt foils and fancy formats are an immediate goal; the way Amazon works, getting cost of the hardcovers is a bigger priority to allow Indies to undercut trapub.

Hmm… when the final of my Neanderthal trilogy is done (Dec), maybe I should consider a Hardback Omnibus on top of the EBK + PBK series??? Hmm…

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Paper Books vs E-Books: Which One Is Better for Reading?

Article 24 Mar 2023 7744 0

In today's digital age, the debate over paper books vs e-books has become a hot topic among readers. While traditional paper books have been around for centuries, the rise of e-books and e-readers has disrupted the publishing industry and changed the way we read. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of paper books and e-books, their impact on the environment, and how they have impacted reading habits and preferences. We will also help readers make an informed decision about which option is better for their personal reading preferences.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Paper Books and E-Books

Paper Books:

• Advantages:
• Physical books provide a tactile and sensory experience that e-books cannot replicate.
• Many readers enjoy the smell and feel of a new or old book, the ability to turn physical pages, and the convenience of using bookmarks.
• Paper books do not require a power source or device to read, making them accessible anywhere.
• Some studies have shown that reading physical books can improve reading comprehension and retention.
• Disadvantages:
• Physical books take up space and can be heavy, making them difficult to carry around.
• They can be expensive to produce, resulting in higher prices for consumers.
• Printing and shipping physical books requires a significant amount of resources, which can impact the environment negatively.
• E-books are lightweight and portable, allowing readers to carry thousands of books in a single device.
• They are generally more affordable than physical books and are easily accessible online.
• E-books are more environmentally friendly as they do not require physical production or transportation.
• They offer features such as adjustable font size, built-in dictionaries, and the ability to highlight and take notes.
• E-books require a power source or device to read, limiting accessibility in areas without electricity or internet access.
• They can cause eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns due to the blue light emitted from devices.
• Some readers prefer the tactile experience of physical books and find e-books less satisfying.

Environmental Impact of Paper Book Production vs E-Book Production

The production of paper books requires a significant amount of resources, including trees, water, and energy. According to The New York Times, it takes an estimated 12 trees to produce one ton of paper. In addition, the production of paper books requires large amounts of water and energy, resulting in greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. On the other hand, e-books have a lower carbon footprint as they do not require physical production or transportation. However, the production and disposal of e-readers and other electronic devices also have environmental consequences. Overall, the environmental impact of paper books vs e-books is complex and requires further research and analysis.

Impact of E-Books on the Publishing Industry

The rise of e-books has disrupted the publishing industry, impacting bookstores, publishers, and authors. According to Forbes, e-book sales have declined since 2015, while paperback sales have seen a steady increase. This trend may be due to the convenience and affordability of e-books, which has resulted in a shift in consumer preferences. However, physical bookstores and independent bookshops have also seen a resurgence in recent years, as some readers prefer the tactile and sensory experience of physical books.

Reading Experience and Preferences

The reading experience and preferences of readers for paper books vs e-books are subjective and vary depending on personal preferences and reading habits. A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 65% of American adults had read a print book in the past year, while only 28% had read an e-book. The same survey found that readers who prefer e-books cited convenience, price, and portability as their main reasons for choosing digital reading materials. Meanwhile, those who prefer paper books cited the tactile experience, the ability to physically display books, and the lack of eye strain or fatigue as their primary reasons for sticking with printed materials.

Another factor that can impact a reader's preference is the type of content they are consuming. For example, readers may prefer e-books for genres such as romance, mystery, and thriller, where they may consume a higher volume of books in a shorter period. On the other hand, readers may prefer physical books for genres such as poetry, art, or photography books, where the visual and tactile experience is a significant part of the reading experience.

Accessibility is another key consideration for many readers. E-books are more accessible for people with visual impairments or reading difficulties, as they offer customizable font sizes and text-to-speech options. E-books also offer the convenience of being able to purchase and download books instantly, without having to leave one's home or visit a physical bookstore. However, physical books have the advantage of being able to be borrowed from libraries or shared among friends, which may be more difficult with digital books due to copyright restrictions and digital rights management (DRM) technology.

Cost is another significant factor for many readers. E-books are generally cheaper than physical books, with some e-books being available for free. However, readers should keep in mind that the cost of an e-reader or tablet must be factored in as well. Physical books may be more expensive, but they can also be resold or passed on to others, which can offset their initial cost.

While the convenience and accessibility of e-books are undeniable, they have also disrupted the publishing industry in significant ways. E-books have enabled self-publishing, which has given many authors the ability to publish their work without the backing of a traditional publishing house. This has led to a proliferation of new and diverse voices in the literary world, but it has also created a crowded and competitive marketplace where it can be difficult for authors to get noticed.

Final Thought

In conclusion, both paper books and e-books have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences, reading habits, and the type of content being consumed. Paper books offer a tactile and visual experience that many readers prefer, while e-books offer convenience, affordability, and accessibility. The impact of e-books on the publishing industry and reading habits is significant and ongoing, and it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the coming years.

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Best Paper Books vs eBooks Statistics, Trends and Facts [2022]

While everything about us is becoming the change to the electronic, e-books versus published books are in constant discussion. Occasionally it becomes difficult to pick between the e-books and published books. The below post will reveal to you the paper books vs ebooks statistics, trends, and facts in 2024 .

Dead Tree Editions Just Won’t Die!

Print books, like horror movie monsters, will survive. The newest paper book vs. eBook data, studies, and surveys support this.

Print books will stay!

A recent Stora Enso study found that 65% of consumers worldwide prefer physical books versus e-books, which 21% prefer.

Let’s examine ebook figures, print-ebook discrepancies, and American publishers’ business practices.

Paper Books vs eBooks Statistics: Trends and Facts

Are our printing books still standard? You’d better believe it!

As per a poll conducted by the Pew Research Center on book consumption and book formats, conventional print remains the hottest hearing format for both adults and kids.

Research says:

• 72% of adults in the USA see a book in a specific structure within the last year
• 65% of respondents claimed they read a book in the past 12 months
• 37% of Americans claim they just read print books
• 28% say that they read both publish books

Kindle and Book Comparisons

Amazon’s Kindle is the most widely used e-reader on the market.

The Kindle is available in several formats, including color and glare-free. However, they all employ the AZW eBook format. Other e-readers, like the Apple Books and Barnes & Noble Nook, employ the more popular EPUB format for eBooks.

• Amazon Kindle has 72% of the market for e-readers.
• In the e-reader market, Barnes & Noble Nook has 10% of the market.
• 18% of e-readers utilize a different digital reading app.

According to a more recent Pew Research report, more individuals are reading on their smartphones and tablets, which has caused a drop in recent e-reader sales.

According to a NewZoo estimate from 2012, there are 30.5 million iPad users and 17.4 million active Kindle Fire users in the US. By 2018, Amazon claimed to have sold almost 90 million e-readers. According to Statista, there will be 1.11 billion e-reader users worldwide by 2024, up from 950.5 million in 2019.

Demographics: Reader vs E-Reader

Income and education affect book reading.

College graduates read 90% of books, whereas high school graduates read 61%.

College dropouts read at 32%.

Economics connects with schooling. 86% of subscribers make over $75,000, while 62% make under $30,000.

Physical books continue to be the best money makers for publishers

Publishing market study indicates the financial juggernaut of classic books. While publishers are still experimenting with different media formats, particularly audiobooks , they’re still investing most of their advertising efforts into bodily book sales.

And they ought to. . .there’s still significant cash in old fashioned publishing!

Books sales earnings in 2019 totaled $26 billion.

• Physical books created 74.7% of their Complete earnings.
• E-books accounted for Just 7.48% of the earnings.

The best part of this revenue was created by additional formats such as audiobooks.

Educational Levels

• 90% completed a book last year.
• 81% read a book in print.
• 41% completed an ebook.
• An audiobook was listened to by 34%

College graduates:

• 61% finished a book last year.
• 55% read a book on paper.
• 15% of people read an electronic book.
• One audiobook was listened to by 12%.
• Over the last year, 86% of those earning over $75,000 read a book.
• In the last year, 78% of those earning between $50,000 and $75,000 read a book.
• In the last year, 67% of those earning between $30,000 and $49,000 read a book.
• In the last year, 62% of persons with annual incomes under $30,000 read a book.

Canada Book Market Mirrors The US

Canadian booksellers see the same tendencies as the United States: people like to publish in long-form reading.

A 2020 poll by the Toronto Star affirms these findings:

• 80% of Ontarians read a book in 2019
• 70% of these read print books
• 28% browse ebooks
• 56% of respondents stated that they just read print
• 14% favor e-books
• 7% favor audiobooks
• Reader vs. E-Reader Statistics: Educational Amounts
• 90% read a book This past Year
• 81% read a print book
• 41% read an ebook
• 34% listened to an audiobook
• High school graduates:
• 61% read a book This past Year
• 55% read a print book
• 15% read an ebook
• 12% listened to an audiobook

Reader vs. E-Reader Statistics: Income Amounts

• 86% of individuals earning over $75,000 annually saw a book this past year.
• 78% of individuals earning between $50,000 and $75,000 annually saw a book this past year.
• 67% of individuals earning between $30,000 and $49,000 annually read a book this past year.
• 62% of individuals earning under $30,000 per year saw a book this past year.

Print Book Youth Movement

Among the chief motives, physical books are here to stay because the next generation of subscribers has embraced them.

Studies by Pew Research Center show that the most avaricious subscribers are young adults, with 81% responding that they saw a book in a format in 2019.

Data gathered from studies and surveys helps shape market tendencies:

• 81% of individuals aged 18-29 see a book This past Year
• 72% of individuals aged 30-49 see a book This past Year
• 67% of individuals aged 50-64 see a book This past Year
• 68% of individuals aged 65 and older read a book This past Year
• 62% of 16 to 24-year-olds favorite print books to e-books
• 74% of 18 to 29-year-olds favorite physical books to e-books
• Just 4% of children’s fiction has been printed in electronic formats in the Last Year.

Costs & Savings of eBooks vs. Print Books

Early eBooks were cheaper than print books.

Logic dictated.

No printing, paper, or shipping costs make digital books cheaper. Ten years ago, seeing a $25 hardcover bestseller with a digital copy for approximately half as much was normal.

Recent and well-known novels are cheaper in print.

Hardback and electronic versions of the latest Stephen King or Susanne Collins novel cost around the same.

eBooks save money on older books and backlists. Digital books decline. Old book eBooks are cheap or free.

Independent authors publish a wide selection of eBooks for less than traditional publishers.

Books are discounted online and offline. One-dollar eBooks online can fill your e-reader. The local warehouse shop has a $5 hardback book table.

eBook readers save money, but not as much as you may think.

Hardcover books are cheaper than Kindle books on the most popular lists.

The Benefits of E-Books

Books are not binding and paper. It’s what’s inside.

E-books offer various advantages over printed books:

The lack of a physical object distinguishes e-books from printed books.

E-books are more portable than paper books.

Your phone or tablet can hold a library of e-books without taking up any shelf space. Kindle libraries contain age-appropriate content.

E-books are tiny. Even with limited data, a dozen full-length variations take up less than a megabyte. Printing problems in book publishing. E-books. Books are bulky.

E-books’ font sizes vary. Make those letters big before bed. Change the background or color. Choices and benefits are unlimited.

E-books will improve your reading. Your Kindle will analyze your e-book reading habits and suggest connected institution names.

E-books also feature a dictionary. No more contextualizing word meanings. Instead, look up words on the spot. Explore the eBook’s subject online.

E-books are great for taking notes. Exporting digital notes to any text editor gets you halfway through your book report or internet review!

eBooks can be shared like other digital assets. Goodreads, a reader community, lets you discuss your reading progress with others, like a book club you can join or check on.

E-books are greener. Your organization with stinking paper mills and pointless bush slaughter is gone. Adhesive-free, ink-free. eBooks are carbon-neutral, unlike newspaper books.

The Benefits of Print Books

Printing books are beautiful!

The smell of freshly printed pages, the smooth, glossy paper under your fingertips, the crinkle and crackle of a story.

Printing enhances reading.

E-readers lack the sensory experience of tangible books. Books are visual.

It smells, feels, and recalls.

For more macho psychological reasons, signature readers prefer tactile books.

Online books are cheaper. New hardcovers cost $30, but Kindle e-readers cost $15. The best eBook pricing is that.

Most back names cost about $5. E-readers and e-books are cheaper for low-income people.

Print books offer uninterrupted low-tech learning. E-readers, however, can have pop-up ads, dying batteries, and power outages.

Print attracts a wide audience, especially senior readers, despite supply limits.

41% of Americans over 65 aren’t online. The population owns less e-readers.

The Disadvantages of E-Books and Print Books

E-books have significant drawbacks over physical books. E-books can only be read on computers, tablets, or cellphones, which is a drawback. E-books cannot be read without a device.

Due to eye strain, e-books are hard to read for long durations. Print novels, on the other hand, can be read for extended periods without straining the eyes.

Print books don’t need batteries, so you’ll always have something to read.

The Future Of Printed Books

Despite the rise of e-books, conventional publishing will continue, according to polls and data.

Market research helps publishers determine which book format readers prefer. U.S. libraries also offer reader habits data.

The new school system also supports traditional book publication.

Textbook publishers have not adopted digital media. Students use heavy, expensive textbooks. Students and faculty boards must buy the same books every year. These textbooks haven’t changed much in decades. Isn’t comprehension available online?

Print textbooks are still essential in classrooms, even though a notebook or tablet computer might include all the instructional resources needed for success.

One reason readers prefer printed books over e-books is this. They enjoy physical books because of college.

The Potential Of The eBook and E-Reader

Pew Research’s 2019 poll helps publishers determine popular reading formats. eBooks and e-readers are slowly growing, even if they weren’t print killers.

Genre fiction, love, crime, science-fiction, thrillers, and related genres sell the most e-books.

The next few decades will see more US electronic fiction. E-book readers earn more as e-books become the majority.

Ebook earnings in 2025: $7.78 billion (up from $5.91 billion in 2019).

2025 e-reader earnings: $98.95 million (up from $77.94 million in 2019).

How Do Paper Books and Ebooks Compare in Terms of Environmental Impact?

Paper books and digital are the most common. Each has environmental pros and cons.

Trees make paper books. It takes around one tree to manufacture a paper book. The book can be recycled or composted after reading. If not recycled or composted, the book will end up in a landfill and take years to degrade.

Electronic components—made from metals and plastics—make up ebooks. These components’ production can harm the environment.

Ebooks don’t need to be printed, saving paper and reducing deforestation. After reading, ebooks are readily removed, reducing electronic waste.

How Do Paper Books and eBooks Compare in Terms of Reading Experience?

When it comes to the reading experience, paper books and eBooks each have their own unique benefits that appeal to different types of readers. For those who prefer a more traditional reading experience, paper books offer the opportunity to physically hold the book in your hands and flip through the pages.

You can also easily bookmark your place and make notes in the margins. eBooks, on the other hand, are often lauded for their portability and convenience. You can store hundreds of ebooks on a single device, making them perfect for travel.

And with features like adjustable font sizes and built-in dictionaries, eBooks can be customized to suit your individual reading needs. So, which is the better option for you? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.

What About Audiobooks?

We’re in the middle of a listening revolution, the likes of which the planet has not seen since the arrival of the radio.

The growth of podcasts and narrated stories implies people are listening to websites more than ever before.

Nonetheless, these contemporary books on tape are not eating away at real books or ebook earnings as much as they are bringing in new subscribers and providing veteran readers a fresh way to enjoy the tales that they love.

• One in five Americans listened to some book in 2019
• 100% of American publishers are producing audio

Relate: Audio Books vs Reading – Is One Really Better Than the Other? [2022]

People Still Read Books… And Always May

People now read short form composing on tablets and smartphones from a societal networking post to a website post. But when they wish to read in more formats, they turn into books, and also, more frequently than not, they flip into dead tree variants published with ink and paper.

Print books are not dying. They are evolving, offering more accessible ways for folks to appreciate them.

Tech has expanded our reading options, permitting us to associate with books in different ways. As a result, in most ways about choice and accessibility, books are fitter than ever!

Rosamillia says his earnings were pretty evenly divided between print books, e-books, and audiobooks before the pandemic struck.

“ Considering my stats in the previous 18 months, my earnings are approximately 18% publish, 27% audiobook, and 55% ebook,” Rosamillia reports. “Audio earnings have almost doubled since Covid, largely affecting the printing side. ”

Besides writing books, Rosamillia also conducts The Small Free Library, a take a book / leave a book people bookshelf, which will hit younger subscribers.

Printed books continue to be favored for character journals, cookbooks, and children’s books. A new Nielsen study found that kids and parents want to hold books and flip the pages together.

You can not do this using an e-book.

The same holds for interactive books such as coloring books, puzzles, and workbooks. You require traditional pages for the most from these books.

Which is better paper books or eBooks?

Ability to skim quickly: It is easier to skim a real book than an ebook. Going back and forth in a printed book is much faster as compared to that of an ebook reader. If you don’t read much, a print book will be more economical. But if you read a lot of books, the overall cost is reduced with an ebook reader.

Are eBooks more popular than books?

One of the main reasons why ebooks have become more popular than physical books is that they are much more accessible. As long as someone has an internet connection or a Kindle, they can access the ebook as soon as they purchase it. Even then, the bookstore might not be open or might not have the right book.

https://www.journalism.co.uk/press-releases/why-are-ebooks-more-popular-than-books-in-2020-/s66/a759606/

Do people prefer eBooks or printed books?

28% read e-books. 56% of respondents said they only read print. 14% prefer e-books.

What are the disadvantages of e-books?

This is a pretty weak disadvantage because you can always get a new copy. Besides, you can also lose paper books. eBooks are harder to read in sunlight. The glare of the sun makes a screen hard to read.

Overall, it seems that paper books are still more popular than eBooks. This is likely because people are used to reading paper books and are more comfortable with them. However, eBooks are becoming more popular, especially among younger people. This is likely because they are more convenient, and people can carry them around more easily. Thank you for reading!

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Ebooks pros and cons - Electronic book vs paper book: which is better?

Source: Image by G_marius.

Have e-readers changed the way you read? We discuss the pros and cons of ebooks. Vote and tell us whether you prefer electronic or traditional paper books.

eBooks vs Paper books

On netivist we love books and we like to discuss them, for instance we are debating the best British crime novelist ,  American writer , and literary fantasy world . Now we turn our attention to the format we prefer to read.

Electronic books (e-books or ebooks) have revolutionized the publishing industry. The success of e-readers such as the Sony Reader, Barnes & Noble Nook, and Amazon Kindle contributed to stimulating the popularity of ebooks. Later, tablets and smart phones have also contributed to this growing trend. eBooks have many advantages over paper books but many people still prefer to read traditional paper books.

However, the origin of the ebook can be traced back to 1930, when Bob Brown, an American writer and businessman, wrote The Redies , a manifesto in which he described:

 "a simple machine which I can carry or move around, attach to any old electric light plug and read hundred-thousand-word novel in 10 minutes if I want to..."

The machine included miniaturized text on a ribbon and a magnifying glass. Its speed was supposed to be controlled by the reader.

In a Spanish teacher, Angela Ruiz Robles, patented the first electronic book reader, called Enciclopedia Mecanica , the idea being to reduce the number of books children had to carry to school. Later, the Italian Jesuit Roberto Busa compiled from 1949 to 1970 an annotated electronic index of Thomas Aquinas' works, which was first stored in a computer and then in a CD-ROM. From the early 1960s Doug Engelbart (Stanford Research Institute) and Andries van Dam (Brown University) develop electronic reading systems which included hyperlinks, indexes and graphics. However, it is Michael S. Hart, who is widely considered as the inventor of the modern ebook His Project Gutenberg launched in 1971, aimed at making ebooks available via the Internet.

Today, the ebook has grown so much that although print books generate more revenues than ebooks, some estimates indicate that in terms of units sold, the ebook may already be ahead of the paper book in the USA. But which of the two formats is superior? Is this just a fad or the ebook will end up completely replacing the paper book?

eBooks pros and cons

eBooks pros:

• Cost effective. Ebooks are cheaper and faster to produce than printed books.
• eBooks are cheaper for users because the cost of producing and distributing additional copies is negligible.
• Thanks to the ebook many new authors can see their works reach the market. Publishing companies were a great barrier many authors never managed to overcome.
• eBooks are environmentally friendly : there is no need to cut down trees.
• Technological advances are making e-readers increasingly cheaper and more comfortable to use. Electronic books allow searches and may help you find parts of the text you are looking for.
• They can be shared with people far away instantly and the owner does doesn't have the risk of losing her copy of the book.
• In a single device you can carry hundreds of books. You can have an entire library with you at all times.
• You save lot of space home.

Cons of eBooks:

• A disadvantage of ebooks it that it is very easy and cheap to copy them illegally. Therefore copyright problems have greatly increased since the advent of the electronic book.
• There are problems with formats due to Digital Rights Management (DRM) issues. When you buy a book for the Amazon Kindle, the book may not be read on your Nook or Sony reader. You may end up tied to a company once you start building your electronic library.
• Computers, tablets and e-readers do not provide the same sensorial experience as with a traditional book. The text on a screen has a different feeling to your eye. The touch of the paper, and even the smell of the book is lost in the case of the electronic book.
• A more traditional engagement with books can very positive for the education of children. Writing on a book and passing the pages back and forth is good for their development.
• Printed books are beautiful and a book shelf is a very nice complement for any room in a house.
• As ebooks are easy and cheap to produce, many authors do not use now the services of professional editors, which would have otherwise, contributed very positively to the overall quality of the work.
• The introduction of the ebook and the problems of "piracy" have created problems from the publishing industry and caused the loss of many jobs.

Watch these videos on the virtues and limitations of ebooks

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• Media ›
• Books & Publishing

E-books in the United Kingdom (UK) - statistics & facts

E-books: readership, access, and purchasing, illegal e-book access: a persistent problem, key insights.

Detailed statistics

CAGR of e-book and print book revenue worldwide 2010-2020

Online purchasing locations for e-books worldwide 2020

Value of the digital book market in the United Kingdom (UK) 2015-2022

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Current statistics on this topic.

Audiobooks & Ebooks

Reasons for e-book consumption in the UK 2022

Ways of accessing e-books in the UK in 2022

Related topics

Recommended.

• E-books in the U.S.
• E-books in Germany
• Book market in Europe
• Book market in the U.S.
• Audiobooks in the U.S.

Recommended statistics

Publishing and revenue.

• Premium Statistic Digital Market Outlook: e-publishing revenue in the UK 2017-2027, by format
• Premium Statistic Value of the digital book market in the United Kingdom (UK) 2015-2022
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• Premium Statistic Digital Market Outlook: readers of e-publishing formats in the UK 2017-2027
• Premium Statistic Digital Market Outlook: e-publishing user penetration UK 2017-2027, by format

Digital Market Outlook: e-publishing revenue in the UK 2017-2027, by format

Digital publishing revenue in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2017 to 2027, by format (in million U.S. dollars)

Digital book revenue in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2015 to 2022 (in million GBP)

Digital Market Outlook: e-publishing ARPU in the UK 2017-2027, by format

Digital publishing average revenue per user (ARPU) in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2017 to 2027, by format (in U.S. dollars)

Digital Market Outlook: readers of e-publishing formats in the UK 2017-2027

Number of digital publishing product users in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2017 to 2027, by format (in millions)

Digital Market Outlook: e-publishing user penetration UK 2017-2027, by format

Digital publishing user penetration rate in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2017 to 2027, by format

Consumption

• Basic Statistic Illegal e-book reading in the UK 2020-2022
• Basic Statistic Frequency of e-book accessing in the UK 2015-2022
• Basic Statistic Frequency of e-book downloading in the UK 2015-2022
• Basic Statistic Frequency of e-book consumption in the UK 2022, by age group
• Basic Statistic Offline and online media read by young people in the United Kingdom (UK) 2023
• Basic Statistic Non-fiction book reading by young people in the United Kingdom (UK) 2017-2023
• Basic Statistic Fiction book reading by young people in the United Kingdom (UK) 2017-2023

Illegal e-book reading in the UK 2020-2022

Illegal e-book consumption in the last three months in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2020 to 2022

Frequency of e-book accessing in the UK 2015-2022

Online e-book reading in the last three months in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2015 to 2022

Frequency of e-book downloading in the UK 2015-2022

E-book downloading in the past three months in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2015 to 2022

Frequency of e-book consumption in the UK 2022, by age group

Frequency of e-book download or access through the internet in the United Kingdom (UK) as of May 2022, by age group

Offline and online media read by young people in the United Kingdom (UK) 2023

Share of young people reading written media outside of school on paper or on screen in the United Kingdom (UK) as of March 2023

Non-fiction book reading by young people in the United Kingdom (UK) 2017-2023

Share of children and young people reading non-fiction books outside of school in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2017 to 2023, by format

Fiction book reading by young people in the United Kingdom (UK) 2017-2023

Share of children and young people reading fiction books outside of school in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2017 to 2023, by format

Reader preferences

• Premium Statistic Reasons for e-book consumption in the UK 2022
• Premium Statistic Main reasons for reading among young people in the UK 2023
• Premium Statistic Leading services used for e-books in the UK 2022
• Premium Statistic Ways of accessing e-books in the UK 2022, by age group

Leading reasons for reading e-books in the United Kingdom (UK) as of May 2022

Main reasons for reading among young people in the UK 2023

Reasons for reading among young people in the United Kingdom (UK) as of March 2023

Leading services used for e-books in the UK 2022

Sites and services used in the past three months to download or access e-books in the United Kingdom as of May 2022

Ways of accessing e-books in the UK 2022, by age group

Methods of accessing e-books in the United Kingdom (UK) as of May 2022, by age group

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