Paperback vs. Mass-Market Paperback – What’s the Difference?
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So, you’re online shopping for books and about to purchase that next great read. But wait – why are there all these different book formats? Well, if you’ve been puzzled by the difference between a paperback vs. mass-market paperback, I’ve got the answers for you here.
Because, a paperback is a paperback, right? It’s just NOT a hardcover, right?
Well, while it’s true that a paperback is definitely not a hardcover, it’s also true that all paperback books are not created equally.
So let’s delve a little bit further into this question and talk about what the real differences are between a paperback vs. mass-market paperback and see whether it even matters which one you buy.
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Paperback vs. Mass-Market Paperback
If you’ve ever wandered through the aisles of a bookstore where you can see the physical books on the shelf, you’ve undoubtedly come across two popular formats: the traditional paperback and its compact cousin, the mass-market paperback. While both could be considered lightweight and portable, each holds its distinct characteristics that cater to different reader preferences and needs.
In this blog post, I’m going to explain the differences that set these two formats apart: the paperback vs. mass-market paperback. So that the next time you’re about to make an online book purchase and you see the option for both book formats, you’ll be able to make an informed choice on which book format is right for you.
The simplest answer here is size and I’ve snapped a pic of some books off my own shelf just to show you.
But in reality, there is a bit more to it than just the size.
The image above is an example of four books from my own book library. To demonstrate the size differences to you, I measured them and noted the exact measurements on the books in the photo. And, if you’re looking to add a little something to your own library, how about exploring some historical fiction?
The smaller ones are what would be considered “Mass-Market Paperbacks”. The larger would be just “Paperbacks”, or “Trade Paperbacks”.
To further confuse the issue, the publishing world has changed so drastically over the years, that what was referred to as a paperback when paperbacks first started to come into existence (back in the 1930s I believe), wouldn’t be called that now. They would most likely be mass-market paperbacks.
Paperback Vs. Mass-Market Paperback – The Differences
So, when you can see the physical books on the shelf while you’re walking around a brick-and-mortar bookstore, you can easily differentiate the difference between these books. You can pick them up and page through them, check out the size of the font, and decide whether they are easy to read or not.
The problem is that when you’re shopping online, you may be presented with a choice between these two formats and may not know which one to take.
For example, take a look at this Amazon listing for the bestselling book Outlander.
Notice that there are five different formats available for purchase. Kindle, Audio, Hardcover, Paperback, and Mass-Market Paperback. Well, now that you will be familiar with the difference between a paperback and mass-market paperback you’ll be able to make an informed choice when presented with that option.
What Is A Paperback Book?
A trade paperback book features a thick paper or paperboard cover, distinct from hardcover books that are stapled or sewn together. The pages of paperback books are usually crafted from high-quality, acid-free paper. In addition, trade paperbacks often have French flaps. A French flap is a piece of the front and back cover folded over underneath itself and somewhat mimicking a dust jacket on a hardcover book.
I use the French flaps as bookmarks!
Publishers often release paperback editions as a cost-effective alternative to hardcovers, providing readers with a more budget-friendly option for specific titles. Although hardcovers offer greater durability in the long run, they come at a higher price. Consequently, the profit margin for paperback publications tends to be lower compared to hardcover volumes.
Paperback books are also referred to as trade paperbacks.
In general, trade paperbacks are usually around 5-6″ wide by 8-9″ tall, and are made of better quality paper designed to be a bit more durable than their little cousins – the mass-market paperbacks.
Where can you find trade paperbacks? Traditional book retailers spots, like brick-and-mortar bookstores, online bookstores like Amazon, and others.
What Is A Mass-Market Paperback Book?
A mass-market paperback also has a thick paper or paperboard cover, but the quality of the cover and the pages themselves are usually not as durable as a trade paperback. The average size of a mass-market paperback is around 4+” wide by 6-7″ tall.
Mass-market paperbacks look small and thick (depending on book length) compared to trade paperbacks.
And I’m afraid that along with a smaller book size, comes a smaller font in the mass-market paperbacks.
Where can you find mass-market paperbacks? You’ll find these in traditional book retailers as well, but also in non-traditional book retailer places like airport shops, drugstores, supermarkets, and any place that sells books but doesn’t only sell books.
I actually just read a book in the mass-market paperback edition because I couldn’t find any other version of it. But, it’s an old book, written in 1973, so I suppose that’s why.
Other Factors In Difference Between A Paperback vs. Mass-Market Paperback
While I’ve noted the main difference between a paperback vs. mass-market paperback here, it’s important to note that the exact size and quality of the book will vary from publisher to publisher and will also depend on where the book was published.
For example, the sizes of trade paperbacks published in the U.S. will be slightly different than those published in the U.K.
Paperback vs. Mass-Market Paperback FAQs
Why is mass market paperback cheaper?
Mass-market paperbacks are cheaper because they are made of less costly materials.
What is the size difference between mass market paperback and paperback?
Paperbacks are around 5-6″ wide by 8-9″ tall. Mass-market paperbacks are around 4+” wide by 6-7″ tall.
Paperback vs. Mass-Market Paperback – Final Thoughts
I would say that it’s much easier to find trade paperbacks for sale now than it is to find mass-market paperbacks.
But, if you have the option to purchase either one, which is better?
In my opinion, the trade paperbacks are just much nicer books so if possible, I would suggest going with that format.
The other huge factor here (no pun intended), is that trade paperbacks are just much easier on the eyes! The print in mass-market paperbacks is smaller and causes a lot more stress on the eyes while you’re reading.
If you can, just go for the trade paperback!
Just in case you prefer to “listen” to your books rather than read them, here’s a nice opportunity to try Audible (+ a few other things) free for 30 Days. And you certainly won’t have any worries about the size of the book if you go this way.
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