Trade Paperback Vs Mass Market: Which One Should You Choose?
When it comes to book publishing, there are two primary formats – trade paperback and mass market. But what’s the difference between the two, and which one should you choose? In this article, we’ll dig deep into these two formats and help you decide which one suits your reading preferences.
What are Trade Paperbacks?
Trade paperback, also known as a “TPB,” is a book format that’s taller and wider than mass-market paperbacks (more on that later). They’re usually printed on heavier and thicker paper, and the cover is softbound with a thicker cardstock or thicker paper. Trade paperbacks are typically used for books that are meant to be kept for a long time, such as novels, non-fiction, and graphic novels.
One of the significant benefits of the trade paperback format is that it offers better printing quality, meaning that the text and images are more vivid and detailed. Another advantage is that they’re more comfortable to read, given their size and paper quality. Trade paperbacks often include extra features, such as maps, glossaries, and even behind-the-scenes looks into the book’s creation. They are also more expensive than mass-market paperbacks, but the quality makes it worth the price for many readers.
What are Mass Market Paperbacks?
Mass-market paperbacks, also called “MMP,” are smaller paperbacks intended for easy portability and disposable reading. Mass-market books are usually printed on thin, cheap paper, and the covers are often thin and shiny. These books are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for carrying in a purse or backpack. They are also more affordable than trade paperbacks, so they’re a convenient way to buy paperbacks that you only intend to read once.
One of the drawbacks of mass-market paperbacks is that the printing quality is often inferior compared to trade paperbacks. This can make it more challenging to read, especially for people with poor eyesight. The thin paper used in mass-market books may also make the pages wear out quickly, especially if they’re being carried around.
Trade Paperback Vs Mass Market: Pros and Cons
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each book format.
Trade Paperback Pros:
– High-quality printing and paper make for an attractive book
– Easier to read because of size and paper quality
– Often include additional features like maps, prefaces, or forewords
– They hold up to repeated reading and look great on a bookshelf
Trade Paperback Cons:
– Generally more expensive than mass-market paperbacks
– May be bulky and difficult to carry around
– Larger size may not fit into bookshelves designed for mass-market books
Mass Market Paperback Pros:
– Lightweight and portable
– Affordable and easy to find
– Fits easily into most bookshelves
Mass Market Paperback Cons:
– Lower printing quality may make reading more difficult
– Cheap paper may lead to wear and tear, making the book less durable
– No additional features or extras
Which One Should I Choose?
There is no hard and fast rule for which book format is better, as it largely depends on your reading preferences. That said, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Choose trade paperbacks if you:
– Value high-quality printing and paper
– Want additional features and extras
– Don’t mind paying a bit more for a book
– Love to display books on a shelf
Choose mass market paperbacks if you:
– Prefer lightweight and portable books
– Don’t want to spend a lot of money on books
– Enjoy disposable reading
– Want to fit more books onto your bookshelf
FAQs
1. Are trade paperbacks or mass-market paperbacks more popular?
Answer: It depends on the publication. Trade paperbacks are generally popular for novels and graphic novels, while mass-market paperbacks are popular for popular fiction or bestsellers.
2. Do trade paperbacks last longer than mass-market paperbacks?
Answer: Yes, trade paperbacks can last longer than mass-market paperbacks because they are printed on better-quality paper.
3. Can I find any book in both formats?
Answer: Not always. Many newer books are published in both formats, but some older books may only be available in one of the two formats.
4. Can I switch between formats if I own an e-reader?
Answer: Yes, if you own an e-reader, you can switch between trade paperback and mass-market paperbacks seamlessly.
Conclusion
In the end, choosing between trade paperbacks and mass market paperbacks depends on your reading preferences. While trade paperbacks offer better quality, they can be bulky and expensive. In contrast, mass-market paperbacks are lightweight and affordable, but the lower quality paper and printing may make reading more difficult. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what works best for you.