By Owen PalmerChoosing how to buy a book often comes down to how you plan to read it. Print books offer a tactile experience, ebooks provide portability and adjustable text, and audiobooks let you listen while doing other tasks. Your lifestyle, storage space, and reading habits all play a part. This guide walks through the main formats, plus library borrowing and used books, so you can decide what works best for each title.
Hardcover or Paperback
The first decision when buying a print book is whether to choose a hardcover or a paperback. Hardcover books have a stiff cover made of thick cardboard covered with cloth or paper. They are more durable and often include a dust jacket. Paperbacks have a flexible paper cover and are lighter and more compact.
Hardcovers are a good choice for books you plan to keep for a long time, such as reference works, art books, or favorite novels you may reread. They can also be easier to hold open because the pages lie flatter. However, they take up more space on a shelf and are heavier to carry in a bag or while commuting.
Paperbacks are lighter and more portable. They usually cost less than hardcovers, though prices vary by edition. A paperback may be better for reading on the go, because it fits easily in a purse or backpack. The trade-off is that paperbacks can show wear more quickly: the spine may crease and the cover can bend.
Consider the frequency of use. If you are buying a book to read once and then pass along, a paperback is often sufficient. If you are building a home library and prefer a uniform look, many publishers release a hardcover edition before the paperback, and you may want to wait for the format that matches your other books.
For a deeper look at avoiding common pitfalls when buying books and other items, see our guide on common buying mistakes and how to avoid them.
Ebooks and E-readers
Ebooks are digital files you can read on a screen. You have the option to read on a multipurpose device like a phone or tablet, or on a dedicated e-readers. The experience differs significantly between these two options.
A dedicated e-reader uses a screen technology called e-ink, which mimics paper. It is not backlit like a phone screen, so many readers find it easier on the eyes for long sessions. Battery life is measured in weeks, and the screen is readable even in direct sunlight. E-readers are lightweight and can store thousands of books. The main downside is that they are a single-purpose device and require an initial purchase.
Reading on a phone or tablet is convenient because you already own the device. You can switch between reading, email, and other apps. However, the screen can cause eye strain after extended use, and battery life is shorter. Brightness adjustments and night modes help, but a backlit screen may disrupt sleep if you read before bed.
Ebooks themselves allow you to change font size, style, and line spacing, which is very helpful for readers with vision challenges. You can also search within the text, highlight passages, and look up definitions. Most ebooks are locked by a digital rights management system, so make sure the format is compatible with your chosen device.
If you are deciding whether to invest in an e-reader, consider how many books you read per season and whether you value portability and a paper-like reading experience. For help comparing electronics like e-readers and tablets, see our page on comparing electronics before you buy.
Audiobooks
Audiobooks turn reading into listening. They are narrated by one or more voices and can include sound effects or music. Audiobooks are ideal for times when you cannot hold a book or look at a screen: during a commute, while exercising, doing chores, or traveling.
Audiobooks come in several forms. CDs are still available but are becoming less common. Digital downloads are the standard today. You can buy individual audiobooks or subscribe to a service that gives you a certain number of credits per month. Some services also offer a rotating catalog of included titles, similar to streaming music.
The narration quality strongly affects your enjoyment. A skilled narrator can bring characters to life and make a long book feel shorter. Some audiobooks are performed by a full cast, which can be immersive. Before buying, it is wise to listen to a sample to see if you like the narrator’s voice and pacing.
Audiobooks are not ideal for every type of book. Nonfiction with charts, maps, or footnotes can be difficult to follow in audio. Fiction with complex plots or many characters may also require more attention. However, many listeners find audiobooks perfect for light novels, memoirs, and self-help titles.
Keep in mind that audiobooks take up storage space on your device. High-quality audio files can be large. Check your device’s capacity and your data plan if you are streaming. Downloading over Wi-Fi before listening is a common practice to avoid data charges.
Try the Library First
Before buying any book, consider borrowing from a library. Public libraries offer physical books, ebooks, and audiobooks for free. Many libraries now provide digital lending through apps that allow you to borrow ebooks and audiobooks directly to your device. These apps are free with a library card and are a great way to try a book before you commit to owning it.
Library apps typically have a limited number of copies, so popular new releases may have a wait list. The borrowing period is usually a few weeks, after which the book automatically expires. This system encourages you to read within a timeframe and avoids late fees. Some services also let you return items early to free up space on your holds.
Physical library branches offer browsing and the chance to examine the condition of a book before borrowing. You can also request interlibrary loans for titles not in the local collection. Libraries often have book sales where you can buy used books at very low prices, which brings us to the next section.
Using the library is especially smart for books you are unsure about, such as a new genre or a debut author. If you love it, you can then buy your own copy. If not, you have spent nothing.
Used Books
Buying used books is a budget-friendly and environmentally conscious choice. You can find used books at thrift stores, library book sales, garage sales, and online marketplaces. The condition varies from like-new to well-loved, so inspect or read descriptions carefully.
Used hardcovers often cost less than new paperbacks, and sometimes a used copy is the only way to get an out-of-print edition. If you collect books, you may prefer a first edition or a specific cover design that is no longer in print. Used bookstores often have sections dedicated to rare or antique books.
When buying online, look at the condition grade: terms like “very good,” “good,” and “acceptable” have standard meanings among sellers. Check for notes about library discards, covering stickers, or highlighting inside the book. If you are particular about aesthetics, you may want to see a photo of the actual copy before purchasing.
Used books are a great way to fill a home library without spending a lot. To keep them organized and upright, consider using bookends on your shelves.
Books for Young Kids
When buying books for babies and toddlers, format matters even more than content. Young children explore books with their hands and mouths, so durability is key.
Board books are made of thick, sturdy cardboard pages that can withstand chewing, drooling, and being dropped. They often have rounded corners for safety and may include textures, flaps, or mirrors to engage a baby’s senses. Board books are the most practical choice for children from birth to about age three. They are heavy for their size, but that also makes them harder for a small child to tear.
Picture books with paper pages are better for older preschoolers who have learned to turn pages gently. These books usually have larger illustrations and more text. If you buy a paper picture book for a toddler, be prepared to supervise reading to avoid torn pages.
For interactive learning, look for board books with touch-and-feel elements, sound buttons, or lift-the-flaps. These features can aid development but may be fragile. Check that the flaps are securely attached and that no small parts could become a choking hazard. Always follow the manufacturer’s age recommendations.
Ebooks and audiobooks are less common for very young children, but some parents use them for travel or to supplement reading. If you do use a digital device for a child, limit screen time and consider a device with strong parental controls.
A common rule of thumb for children’s books is that you can never have too many, but you also want to rotate them to keep the child interested. Storage bins or low shelves work well for board books and picture books. Avoid overbuying; borrow from the library to see which books your child loves before committing to a purchase.
FAQ
What is the best format for traveling?
For travel, an ebook on a phone or a dedicated e-reader is the most space-efficient. You can carry many books in one lightweight device. Audiobooks are also excellent for long car rides or flights, since they free your hands and eyes. If you prefer print, a paperback or two packs easily.
Are e-readers worth buying compared to reading on a phone?
It depends on how much you read. If you read several books per month, an e-reader’s e-ink screen reduces eye strain and its long battery life is convenient. If you read only occasionally, your phone or tablet may be sufficient. Compare features like screen size, weight, and waterproofing before deciding.
Should I buy hardcover or paperback for a book I want to keep?
A hardcover holds up better over years of rereading. A paperback is easier to carry if you read on the go. If you are building a collection, matching the format of books you already own keeps shelves tidy.
Can I listen to audiobooks from the library?
Yes, most public libraries offer digital audiobooks through library lending apps. You borrow them just like ebooks, with automatic returns. Wait times vary by title. This is a free way to enjoy audiobooks before buying your favorites.
Choosing a book format is not a one-size-fits-all decision. You may buy some books in hardcover for your home library, borrow others from the library as ebooks, and listen to audiobooks during your commute. By thinking about how and when you read, you can pick the right format for each title and avoid buying books that will sit unread on a shelf.
About Owen Palmer
Owen Palmer is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our holiday shopping calendar guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
