Ebooks vs Paperbacks vs Hardcovers – Which Sells More?

Introduction: The Modern Reader’s Dilemma

If you’re an author today, you’ve probably wondered: Should I publish my book as an eBook, paperback, or hardcover?

Each format tells a different story — not just to readers, but to your sales dashboard. The publishing world has evolved dramatically since the boom of digital reading platforms like Amazon Kindle and Apple Books, yet physical books continue to dominate in unexpected ways.

So, which format really sells more? Let’s uncover the data, reader psychology, and strategies behind each — and how authors can smartly use them for maximum profit and exposure.

The Rise (and Rule) of eBooks

eBooks revolutionized reading. Platforms like Amazon KDP, Kobo Writing Life, and Draft2Digital made publishing as easy as uploading a PDF.

According to WordsRated, global eBook sales hit $13.6 billion in 2023, and the number is projected to grow by 5.3% annually. The U.S. alone accounts for nearly one-third of all eBook revenue.

eBooks sell particularly well in genres like fiction, romance, and thrillers, where instant downloads and binge-reading matter most. With no printing or shipping costs, authors keep up to 70% royalties through Amazon KDP.

Pro tip: Optimize your metadata, title, and cover for Kindle readers. A strong Amazon SEO strategy can increase your book’s visibility by up to 300%.

Still, eBooks come with challenges — piracy, digital fatigue, and the emotional gap of not “holding” a real book. That’s where paperbacks still hold their charm.

The Evergreen Appeal of Paperbacks

Paperbacks are the sweet spot between affordability and tangibility. They’re portable, personal, and still account for over account for over 60% of global book sales, according to Statista’s 2024 publishing report.

For indie authors, paperbacks via Amazon KDP Print or IngramSpark open access to bookstores, libraries, and global markets without inventory risk.

Many authors report that paperbacks outsell their eBooks by 2:1, especially for genres like non-fiction, children’s books, and self-help — where readers prefer note-taking and physical engagement.

Pricing tip: The best-selling paperbacks are usually priced between $9.99–$14.99, balancing buyer psychology and author profit margins.

Fun fact: In 2024, Penguin Random House noted that print-on-demand titles increased 28% in global orders , showing continued love for physical books even in the digital age.

Hardcovers: Prestige, Power & Premium Pricing

There’s something undeniably satisfying about holding a hardcover. It’s the luxury format of publishing — designed for collectors, serious readers, and authors who want to make a bold impression.

Hardcovers may not sell in high volume, but they earn higher per-sale profits. According to Bookstat, hardcover books make up about 25% of total print sales, often driven by gift purchases and new releases.

If you’re writing non-fiction, memoir, or business books, offering a hardcover through IngramSpark hardcover printing service or Blurb can enhance your credibility and price perception.

Example: Many successful authors use hardcovers as “premium editions,” priced at $24.99+, and release a paperback later to widen affordability.

Sales Comparison: Who Really Wins?

Here’s the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all. Each format dominates in its own niche.

According to WordsRated 2024 Report

eBooks: 30% of total book sales revenue worldwide.
Paperbacks: 55–60% of units sold globally.
Hardcovers: 10–15%, but highest in per-unit profit.

Reader preferences vary:

eBooks attract commuters and night readers.
Paperbacks appeal to students and everyday readers.
Hardcovers attract collectors and professionals.

In short — it’s not about which sells more, but which sells best for your audience.

Smart Strategy: Use All Three Formats Together

Top indie authors don’t choose one — they use all three formats to maximize reach and revenue.

Here’s how to make it work:

Launch your eBook firstvia Amazon KDP or Draft2Digital.
Add a paperback edition on IngramSpark for wide retail and library access.
Offer a hardcover version through Blurb or Lulu, branding it as a collector’s edition.

This multi-format approach ensures that no reader — digital or traditional — is left behind. It also improves discoverability across Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and Kobo.

Final Thoughts: Give Your Readers the Choice

The publishing world in 2025 is about reader freedom. Some want instant downloads, others crave the smell of paper. The key is to meet readers where they are, not where trends tell you to go.

By offering eBooks, paperbacks, and hardcovers, you create an ecosystem around your book — one that builds credibility, accessibility, and income diversity.

So whether your readers flip pages or swipe screens, remember — it’s your story, your strategy, and your success.

Next Up: Don’t miss our next article — “How to Set the Right Price for Your Book” — where we uncover the psychology and strategy behind book pricing to help authors boost profits and reach.