Alright, folks. Let’s talk about a very important issue in the world of writing: books. Specifically, audiobooks vs print books. While I am a business content writer and don’t spend a lot of time writing books, I’ve talked before about being an avid reader and why reading is important for being a professional writer. Since I only got into audiobooks a few years ago (I know, I know), I was firmly in the camp of print books. So, will my opinion differ now? Read on to find out…

Team Audiobook vs Team Print Book

Originally, I found audiobooks slow and uncomfortable. Once someone showed me how to adjust the book’s speed, that changed things for the better for me. Still, there are some important differences that I feel are worth sharing.

• Audiobooks are great for multitasking: The reason that I got into audiobooks originally was because I was working at an offline job where listening to something was encouraged, and music only entertained me for so long. While it took me a while to get used to the difference in how you engage with a book, I love that I was able to read 3-4 books a week, even when I was working too many hours to dedicate focus to traditional reading opportunities.

• Print books are superior for reference or textbooks: Whether digital or paper, I must say that I will always prefer a traditional book for something that I am going to use or refer to a lot. Not only can you use a highlighter or sticky notes, but you can also search through the book and get faster access to what you need. Plus, having it sit on your desk within reach is great!

• Audiobooks aid your imagination and listening skills: I was pleasantly surprised by how immersive audiobooks were. While it has to be the right narrator to really sell a particular story, I have to admit that engaging with the audiobook was very similar to how I would be transfixed by a movie or a TV show. An audiobook really helps you pay close attention and still vividly imagine the scene — especially if the book has multiple narrators and/or sound effects!

• Print books provide a focused experience: If I am trying to focus on something that I’m reading, I still find that a traditional book helps me do that. For me, personally, an audiobook is strictly for pleasure reading, and print books will help me focus on the task at hand.

Reading is reading is reading

Whether you read my points above or not, you can probably guess what the outcome is from my point of view. If it gets you reading, then pick the medium that works for you. I’m an equal fan of both, but I definitely would say that listening to an audiobook is a very different experience from reading an ebook or print book.

There are also some books that I have loved as audiobooks, and others where I have preferred a traditional reading experience. What about you? Do you enjoy both types of reading? Share your thoughts!