Ebook vs. Paperback: Which Format Should You Publish (and Why You Should Probably Do Both)
One of the most common questions I hear from debut authors is: Should I publish my book as an ebook only, or also release a paperback? And let me just say—it’s a great question, and one that usually comes from a very smart place: budget planning and strategy.
But here’s the truth: in most cases, publishing both is the smartest move. Let’s walk through why that is, what it really costs, and how to make the decision that’s best for your author business.
Why This Question Comes Up So Often
Many authors are worried about the cost of creating both formats. I hear questions like:
“Doesn’t it cost more to produce a paperback?”
“Is it even worth it to have a paperback if most readers buy ebooks?”
“What about audiobooks or hardcovers?”
All valid concerns! And the good news is, you don’t have to make this decision based on anxiety to please readers. When you understand the publishing process and reader behavior, the path becomes much clearer.
Cost Differences: Ebook vs. Paperback
Let’s clear up a big misconception: creating a paperback version of your book does not have to cost significantly more than your ebook.
Cover Design: Yes, paperbacks require a full wrap (front, spine, and back cover), but most professional cover designers offer this as a package alongside your ebook design. You're not starting from scratch.
Formatting: Whether you hire someone or use a DIY-friendly tool like Atticus or Vellum, you’ll likely pay a single fee to format for both ebook and print.
Printing Costs: With print-on-demand platforms like KDP Print or IngramSpark, you don’t have to print or pay for inventory up front. Instead, books are printed individually when ordered, and the printing cost is automatically deducted from the customer’s purchase price before royalties are paid to you.
Returns: If you distribute widely and a bookstore returns copies, you might have to cover the cost of return shipping.
ISBNs: You'll need a separate ISBN for each format of your book—one for the ebook, one for the paperback, and another for the hardback and audiobook (if applicable). Each version is considered a unique product, so having individual ISBNs ensures proper cataloging and distribution across platforms.
Bottom line? It’s not about upfront investment. It’s about maximizing your visibility.
Why Offering Both Formats Is Worth It
Here’s why I recommend that nearly every author release both an ebook and a paperback:
Reader Preference Varies Widely
Some readers only read ebooks. Others want a physical copy for their shelf. Many will buy the ebook and then the paperback if they fall in love with your story. Offering both means you meet your readers where they are.Different Discovery Channels
Ebooks sell well in newsletter promos and KU.
Paperbacks are more appealing at local events, signings, libraries, and gift purchases.
Shelf Presence = Credibility
A paperback version gives you a tangible product to display, gift, or use in giveaways. It also adds professionalism to your author brand.Two Products = More Opportunities
More formats = more ways to be found, bought, and shared.
What About Hardcovers and Audiobooks?
Hardcovers and audiobooks are great, but they come with more complexity and cost.
Audiobooks often require a $2,000+ investment for professional narration and editing. I recommend waiting until your ebook and paperback have earned enough or your audience is requesting it.
Hardcovers are typically only expected for special editions or certain genres (like fantasy or romantasy). Unless your readers are asking for them, it’s okay to hold off or offer them as a limited launch.
Genre-Specific Considerations
Your genre plays a big role in what formats make sense:
Romance, thriller, mystery: High ebook sales, so ebooks are crucial. But paperback lovers are still strong, especially for binge-reading.
Fantasy, historical fiction: Readers love shelf trophies, making paperbacks (and even hardcovers) more desirable.
Children’s books or nonfiction: Print is essential.
Use this insight when analyzing your reader base and choosing which formats to prioritize.
The Hidden Benefit of Paperbacks: Dual Buyers
Here’s a secret from both my experience as a reader and a strategist: people often buy both formats.
They’ll read your book digitally first, fall in love, and then want the physical copy for their shelf. This is especially true in series, collector genres, and beautifully designed books.
When you offer both versions, you give your reader an easy way to continue supporting you.
Ebook-Only: When It Makes Sense
There are a few situations where going ebook-only is a good short-term decision:
You're releasing a short story or novella as a reader magnet
You're testing a pen name or new genre and keeping costs low
You’re building momentum with serial content
Just don’t stay there forever. Once your book proves itself, invest in the paperback version.
Publishing in both ebook and paperback formats allows you to meet readers where they are—and that’s the foundation of a sustainable author career.
Distribution: Where You Should Publish Each Format
To reach the widest audience:
Publish your ebook via KDP (Amazon) and optionally Draft2Digital or PublishDrive for wide distribution
Publish your paperback via KDP and IngramSpark so bookstores and libraries can order it
Consider publishing your audiobook via ACX or Findaway Voices once you're ready
This combo helps you cover all major discovery channels: Amazon, libraries, bookstores, gift givers, and digital-first readers.
Give Readers Options
At the end of the day, offering both ebook and paperback formats isn’t about cost—it’s about access.
When you create multiple ways for readers to experience your book, you increase your chances of:
Getting discovered
Building your fanbase
Creating recurring income
Publishing in both formats is a strategic decision that opens doors for visibility, sales, and long-term growth.
So yes—go ahead and publish your ebook and your paperback. Your readers (and your future self) will thank you.
Want support deciding which formats are best for your publishing plan? Join me inside the Story Flow Collective and get access to strategy calls, marketing templates, and expert guidance tailored to your goals.
P.S. Letters From Story Flow is your bi-weekly resource for authors who are ready to grow their careers with clarity and ease—without relying on hustle-heavy strategies that don’t feel like you.
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