Intro
If you’re self-publishing a book, one of the first questions you’ll face is: which format should I prioritise? Print, ebook, and audiobook each offer different opportunities, costs, and audiences. The answer isn’t the same for every author, but by looking at current trends, you can make smart decisions about where to focus.
Print Books: Still the Favourite
Despite the rise of digital formats, print continues to hold a large share of market revenue. In 2024, print still accounted for around 78% of consumer market revenue in the UK. Print remains essential, especially for visibility in bookshops and libraries.
- Pros: Trusted, physical presence, strong in retail and libraries.
- Cons: Higher printing & fulfilment costs; more complex logistics.
For most authors, print remains a must-have — especially when paired with digital formats.
Ebooks: Affordable and Global
Ebooks remain an important format, particularly for international reach, lower production costs, and instant delivery.
Digital formats (ebooks + audiobooks) collectively saw a 17% rise in revenue in the UK in 2024.
That suggests ebooks are still growing in importance, though they compete with audiobook growth and print’s dominance.
- Pros: Low cost, global availability, instant delivery.
- Cons: Less perceived value, crowded marketplace.
Ebooks are particularly useful for authors with tight budgets or niche genres.
Audiobooks: The Fastest-Growing Format
Audiobooks are expanding rapidly. In the UK, audiobook revenue rose 31% between 2023 and 2024, reaching £268 million — a record for the format.
This growth cements audiobooks as one of the most dynamic areas of the publishing industry.
- Pros: Increasing demand, new listeners, additional income stream.
- Cons: High production cost (narration, editing, mastering), need for quality.
If your budget allows, adding an audiobook version can help you tap into a growing audience.
So Which Format Should You Choose?
For most authors in 2025, the path is not “print or ebook or audio” — it’s print + ebook, and ideally audio if feasible.
- Start with print + ebook to cover core markets and ensure your book is accessible.
- Add audiobook when your cash flow or genre supports it (e.g. memoir, self-help, thriller).
Publishing wide (across formats and platforms) continues to give your book the best chance of discovery.
At The Publishing Studio, we believe authors should have their books available wherever readers are looking. We can help you prepare professional files for print, ebook, and audiobook — and advise on distribution strategies that make sense for your goals.
Want to talk through your publishing strategy? Book a consultation and let’s plan the best route for your book.
