paperback vs. hardcover

paperback vs. hardcover: What’s the difference?

Paperback and hardcover are both types of books—each name is based on the material used for the book’s cover. Paperbacks have a thin, cardstock-like cover, while hardcovers have a thicker, rigid cover. In many cases, the first edition of a book is a hardcover, while later editions may be a (usually less expensive) paperback. Some books, notably “genre fiction” like sci-fi novels, are known for only ever being released in paperback, while others, such as textbooks, are usually only hardcovers.