The way people read books today reflects both technological developments and longstanding preferences. While digital formats such as e‑books and audiobooks have grown in availability and convenience, printed books remain a dominant force in global reading habits. Data from recent years provides a clear picture of how print and digital book consumption compare, and what this means for readers, publishers, and the future of the book industry.
Print Books Still Dominant in Reader Preferences
Multiple surveys and sales reports show that printed books continue to be the most widely consumed format. In the United States and other major markets, a large majority of adults report that they read physical books within a given year. In one survey, approximately 65 to 70 percent of U.S. adults said they had read a print book in the past year, a larger share than those who reported reading an e‑book or audiobook. In some studies, print book readership outnumbered e‑book readership by more than two to one.
In online retail data, print books also make up a significantly higher proportion of total book sales than digital formats. For example, print books account for roughly three‑quarters of book sales on major platforms, with e‑books representing about one quarter. This trend aligns with broader patterns showing that, although digital options are widely available, physical copies remain the preferred choice for many readers.
Growth and Reach of Digital Formats
Despite print’s continued popularity, digital formats have expanded their reach and influence. E‑books have gradually increased their share of the reading market since the early 2010s. Surveys indicate that around 30 percent of adults report reading at least one e‑book in a given year, a figure that has held steady in recent years after initial growth following the widespread adoption of e‑reading devices.
E‑book readers often say they read more books after adopting digital formats, likely because of the convenience of carrying multiple titles on a single device and the instant availability of purchases or downloads. Global projections estimate that the number of e‑book readers could reach over one billion in the coming years, reflecting ongoing interest in the format.
In addition to e‑books, audiobooks continue to grow rapidly. Audiobook listening has risen year over year, with subscription models and mobile listening making spoken‑word formats more accessible. In multiple markets, a significant share of adult readers report listening to audiobooks, and publishers respond by producing more audio editions alongside print and digital releases.
Print Book Resilience and Trends
Physical books remain strong not only in overall sales but also in cultural relevance. Sales of print books increased after pandemic‑related declines in some markets, and bookstores have shown resilience with steady foot traffic and strong demand for physical titles. Hardcovers and paperbacks maintain an emotional and aesthetic appeal that many readers value, such as the tactile experience of holding a book and the ability to display collections at home.
Print book sales trends also vary by genre. Non‑fiction and children’s books tend to perform particularly well in print formats, while fiction, romance, and self‑help categories see comparatively higher digital consumption. Regardless of genre, however, print maintains a considerable market share.
Demographic Differences in Format Preferences
Reading behavior also varies by age, education, and other demographic factors. Younger adults are more likely than older adults to use digital formats, though they still show strong interest in print books. In some surveys, a majority of readers under 30 reported occasional e‑book use, while a sizeable portion continued to read printed books.
Education level appears to influence format choice as well, with college graduates more likely to read in multiple formats, including print and digital, compared with those without higher education. Across age groups, however, print remains a central part of reading habits for pleasure and study alike.
Complementary Roles of Print and Digital
The data suggests that print and digital books do not simply compete for readers; they serve complementary roles. Many readers use both formats depending on context: print books for in‑depth reading at home or as collectibles, and digital formats for travel, convenience, or accessibility. A considerable portion of survey respondents report reading both print and digital books in the past year, indicating hybrid reading habits.
Digital reading also supports discovery and sampling. E‑book samples, online previews, and digital access through libraries help readers explore titles before committing to a purchase in print or digital form. Libraries increasingly provide e‑book and audiobook checkouts, widening access to diverse readers.
Market Data on Sales and Consumption
Recent market statistics show that print book sales remain the backbone of the publishing industry. In multiple national markets, billions of printed copies are sold annually, dwarfing the number of e‑books sold. While e‑book sales have grown since the early 2010s, print sales continue to outpace digital sales by significant margins. In one dataset, print books outsold e‑books by approximately four to one, illustrating print’s sustained commercial strength.
Revenue patterns mirror sales figures, with print generating the majority of total book revenue. Although digital formats contribute increasing revenue shares, especially through subscription and audiobook platforms, physical formats still account for the largest portion of industry income.
Why Readers Still Choose Print
Several factors help explain why many readers continue to prefer print:
- Tactile and aesthetic experience: Physical books provide a sensory experience that digital formats cannot replicate.
- Reduced screen time: Print reading does not involve screens, making it attractive to those seeking a break from digital devices.
- Retention and comprehension: Some studies suggest that reading printed books can aid in comprehension and retention compared with reading on screens, particularly for leisure reading.
- Collectibility and gifting: Print books remain popular as gifts and collectible items, contributing to sustained demand.
At the same time, digital formats offer clear advantages in portability, convenience, and accessibility, making them valuable parts of the modern reading ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
The future of reading habits is likely to reflect a balance between print and digital formats. Print will continue to play a central role due to its cultural significance and enduring popularity, while digital formats will expand and adapt alongside changing technology and reader needs. Subscription models, library digital collections, and innovative e‑reading experiences will further shape how people engage with books.
Understanding these trends helps publishers, booksellers, and authors make informed decisions about how to produce, market, and distribute content. For readers, the coexistence of print and digital options means greater freedom to choose the format that best suits individual preferences and lifestyles.