Firstly, you must know that they are both paperbacks. Trade paperbacks are the less expensive version of the hardcover edition. Mass paperbacks are for masses on a budget. 

The main distinction between trade paperbacks vs mass market paperbacks is the distribution method. Trade paperbacks are distributed to book trade like Ingram’s or Baker & Taylor. On the other hand, mass market paperbacks are distributed via magazine distributors and treated like periodicals – there’s a new batch every month, the returns system is simpler for the retailer, etc. News stands can carry mass-market paperbacks, or they can show up in spinner racks anywhere that carry magazines. 

A table can easily help you figure out major differences among trade paperback and mass market paperback.

Table: Trade Paperback Vs Mass Market Paperback

Quality of paperback Trade paperbackMass market paperback
Size and dimension of paperback In the US, trade paperbacks are more extensive as they go to bookstore shelves. Ideally 6” x 9” is the most common size but they can vary accordingly.In the US, at least, mass-market paperbacks are 4” x 7” or smaller so as to fit the spinner racks.
Alternative nameTrade paper books edition or trade paper editionMass Market books or Pocketbooks
Font sizeLarge types of fonts may be seen.Mass market paperbacks may prefer smaller fonts given their comparatively more petite size.
Price The Price of a trade paperback is relatively higher than a Mass market paperback. The price of Mass market paperback is lower than trade paperback.
Selling locationsTrade paperback is sold in those bookstores, which are regular retail stores. Mostly traditional types of locations are preferred.The mass market paperback is mostly sold at airports, supermarkets, and newsstands which come under non-traditional areas for bookselling.
Distribution Trade paperbacks are distributed by companies specialising in distributing books to libraries and bookstores.Mass market paperbacks are distributed by magazine distributors in non-traditional locations. 
Quality of books Paper is thicker and heavier than Mass market paperback.Paper is lighter and thinner for mass market paperback.
Barcode Trade paperbacks use the UPC barcode. Paperbacks in the mass market use the EAN barcode.

It is stated in the above-written table that there are several differences between mass-market paperbacks and trade paperbacks. We hope to give you a better understanding of it. 

If you want to understand in details all the key differences between mass market paperback and trade paperback, you can scroll below for further reading:

What is Trade Paperback?

A trade paperback book has a softcover board with a thick paper or paperboard cover. Paperback books are glued together rather than stapled or sewn together like hardcover books. The pages of a paperback book are typically made of high-quality, acid-free paper.

Paperback books are typically released by publishers when they wish to give a lower-cost edition of a specific title than a hardcover book, which is more durable in the long run but also more expensive. As a result, the profit margin for paperback publications is lower than for hardcover volumes.

What are the Features of Trade paperback?

Trade paperbacks come with several beneficial features as stated below in 4 major points:

1. Mass market paperback vs trade paperback size

Self-publishers writing non-fiction will prefer to publish trade paperback copies. Although the ideal size goes by 6’’ x  9’’, 8.5’’ x 11’’  is rare yet seldom used.  The retail price of the cover is comparatively higher than the mass market paperbacks and less than the editions that come under hardcover.

2. Trade paperback has French flap:

‘French flap’ is one of the recent features of Trade paperback. This feature allows one to extend the back and front cover with the section, which is folded just like the wrapping of paper. It is typically found in hardcover books. Paperbacks appear more like hardcover editions with lesser prices.

3. Format of Trade Paperback in the UK:

The first format matches the standard mass-market paperback of the US. The size of this paperback is around 110mm x 178mm and is 4.33″ x 7.01″.

The second format matches the largest mass-market paperback in the US. The size of this paperback is around 130mm x 198mm that is 5.12″ x 7.80″.

The second format matches the standard Trade paperback of the US. The size of this paperback is around  135mm x 216mm that is 5.32″ x 8.51″

4. Trade paperbacks are referred as paperbacks:

Trade paperbacks can also be referred to as paperbacks on a general basis. It is very easy to identify trade paperbacks; you just have to look at the size of the book. Its size is comparatively larger than a mass-market paperback copy. The size is 9” and width 6”. 

What is a Mass Market Paperback?

The books that are sold in non-traditional locations generally stay within the periodical distribution industry. Usually, these books are distributed by the same company from whom magazines are purchased. While trade paperbacks are distributed by wholesalers, distributors, and trade channels, they have been named Trade paperbacks.

1. Strippable v/s non-strippable:

“Strippable” simply means that a book’s cover can be torn off, or stripped off by the book retailer or distributor and then sent back to the book publisher for a credit or refund. The publisher tells the book retailers and distributors which books it will allow being stripped and which books cannot be stripped. Each publisher has its own rules and guidelines about which books can be stripped. By stripping off the cover of a book and sending the cover back to the publisher without the body of the book, postage costs will be greatly reduced.

“Non-strippable” books are just the opposite of “strippable.” “Non-strippable” means that a book cannot be returned to the publisher for a credit or refund unless the book is complete, with the cover intact.

2. Self-publishers:

When self-publishers publish their fiction books, they’re typically only released in the mass-market format. These books will most commonly never receive hardcover printing. This format helps keep the cover price down, making these books more attractive to a broader audience in a very competitive market.

3. Recognise Mass Market paperback:

You will find that the size of the mass-market paperback is small as compared to Trade paperbacks, also, you will be able to spot the differences in binding. Other factors which you can rectify are prices. The price of the mass-market paperback is comparatively lesser to trade paperback, with size – height 6.75’’ and width of 4.25’’ and font is used on a frequent basis, and spacing in lines which are smaller. 

Why do authors release hardcovers first?

Are you curious why hardcover books are better? Do you want to know why the hardcovers were first released? When a new book is published, it first comes in the hardcover version. These hardcovers spread in the market and gained popularity, and later, the paperbacks were released after some time. Here are some specific reasons why the hardcovers get published first.

1. Hardcover books induce more profit

When a book first gets released, the main thing that every author and publisher needs is profit and revenue. The major aim that follows after the publication of a book is to get an adequate amount of revenue to satisfy the money invested and get a reasonable return or profit. Hence, publishers and authors mostly release the book in hardcover to get a high revenue on their recently released book.

Book Hardcovers are more expensive than the regular paperback. The printing charge for these books is much higher than the general paperbacks. The pages are different, the machines are more advanced, and the printing details are ensured to be the best type. While ensuring these things, the outer look of the book is also taken care of. As a huge amount of money is put into making a book hardcover, that’s the reason it is very expensive with regards to paperback. The detailed making attracts the readers when it is put on a bookshelf. These hardcovers are brought only by traditional book-selling spaces like libraries or typical bookstores. Hence, these books give a huge amount of revenue from their selling.

2. Hardcover books are a superior stock

The look of the book creates an impression on the minds of the reader. When a great-looking hardcover book is kept in a book, it is eye-catching, and people notice it from a distance as the cover has a beautifully made hardcover and a dust jacket that is designed too. It is very eye appealing and protects the book. This makes the book hardcover very fancy, and the book’s overall look is elevated. The prestige that comes with hard covers is not usually found in a simple paperback version. Many readers, book reviewers, people who stock up on books, and critics prefer to have a hardcover as it is more fancy, prestigious, and rich.

The shape and size of a hardcover are always eye-catching and appealing to a reader. Its structure is very elegant and classy. One holding a hardcover in hand never goes unnoticed. When such a great-looking cover is kept, it lifts the book’s presence among all other paperbacks. One of the major benefits of a hardcover is the book’s longevity. Books with hardcovers can be kept for long years without any trouble. The maintenance is minimal as the book is already tough due to its strong making. This is the reason why hardcover books are better. They are usually bought mostly by critics, libraries, and reviewers.

Hardcover books are always better than paperbacks. This version of the book is first released, then after the book has become popular among the readers, the paperback version comes to the market. The revenue that gets collected by the hardcover is why the hardcover is first released. The price of the hardcover is a bit more due to its quality. Another important reason is the look of the book changes. It looks fancy and appealing to the eyes, and that’s how it attracts more readers.

Which Is Better: Paperback or Mass Market Paperback?

Although both options are better in their own ways, several additional advantages are associated with using a mass market paperback. The following are the reasons why one should opt for mass market paperback. 

1. Easy to carry 

Comparatively, mass market paperback size is quite petite. Their compact structure allows easy transportation. If you wish to read it while you’re out, it’s an amazing option to opt for. Being quite petite, it can fit into your bag without consuming much space. You don’t feel the burden of carrying it all around with you as it weighs significantly less. 

It easily fits into a backpack or purse without making weight distribution a matter of concern. The mass market paperback is the perfect fit for traveling enthusiasts. 

2. Easy access 

The best part about mass market paperbacks is that they’re available anywhere and everywhere. Even stores that don’t usually sell hardback books have mass market paperbacks in stock.

Not merely that, but it’s also available at bookstores and libraries across the country. It implies that even if you’re not in a familiar country, you can still get your hands on your favourite book. It allows you to have a plethora of options with you while traveling. 

3. Inexpensive

Mass market paperbacks don’t burn a hole into your pocket as trade paperbacks do. They cost much less despite having more pages. After reading this, you must wonder – Are mass market paperbacks good? Well, rest assured. The lower price doesn’t imply a compromise in content quality. 

Additionally, the shop owner might even offer a discount if you buy more than one book at a time. It’s a win-win situation. 

4. Convenient for kids

Mass market paperbacks flaunt simple language, which makes them quite easy to understand. Therefore, it’s a great option for children. Children can indulge in a great reading experience, which will be quite informative. It’s actually quite popular among kids. The addition of pictures and designs further sparks interest in children. 

5. A plethora of options 

Mass market paperback offers a plethora of options for you to choose from. It allows the audience to choose a book of their liking. In case you don’t have the budget to buy both hardcover versions of your favourite book series, you can get your hands on the mass market paperback version. 

The only difference is the mass market paperback font size and the page will be smaller. Many options are available, such as cookbooks, textbooks, classic novels, etc. 

Who should you buy Trade Paperback over Mass Market Paperback?

If you’re very particular regarding a book’s appearance, then you should most definitely go for a trade paperback. It will give you the feel of a bigger font size and top-notch quality. If having a big book tickles your fancy, this is the perfect fit for you. 

However, for people who don’t mind holding a petite book with a smaller font size, mass market paperback should be your go-to option. The pocket-sized book will be quite easy to carry around.  

Conclusion

If you are in the publishing line, it’s important to have a brief knowledge of the various printing methods and norms that they go by. Self-publishers will also understand what’s best for them through this post. Both mass market paperback and trade paperbacks are the lower-priced versions of a hardcover edition. So now, you know what to choose from based on your needs and preferences.