Paperback Book Printing
At QinPrinting, we offer top-quality paperback book printing for self-publishers, academics, and businesses. With over 25 years of experience, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional customer service, we maintain a stellar reputation among self-publishers and creatives worldwide.
Popular Paperback / Softcover Book Sizes
We can print paperback books in a vast range of sizes and in either portrait or landscape formats. Which size and format you choose for your paperback edition depends on your genre, your market, the content, and more. But to help you get an idea, here's a quick list of the most popular sizes by genre:
- For a novel: 5.5" x 8.5" and 6" x 9" are the most common.
- Educational / textbooks: 6" x 9" and 8.5" x 11" are the benchmark options.
- Early reader: 8.5" x 8.5" square format is popular.
Other Common Paperback Book Sizes
The following paperback sizes are especially common:
- Mass-market paperbacks: 4.25" x 6.87" – often used for fiction and popular novels sold in retail outlets.
- Trade paperbacks: 5.5" x 8.5", 6" x 9", and 7" x 10" – these sizes are ideal for novels, memoirs, and general nonfiction.
- Large format books: 8.5" x 11" – popular for textbooks, manuals, and photo books.
- Children's books: 7" x 7", 8" x 10", or 8.5" x 8.5" square formats are widely used.
The standard formats are practical if you need to mail out a lot of copies. For commercial reasons, these are often the best choices as they meet consumer expectations, stack and store easily, fit snugly on bookstore, library, and domestic bookshelves, and are the most economical to produce.
But at QinPrinting, we're happy to create custom paperback books in any size or format you wish. Only remember that extensive customization incurs higher costs and slower turnaround times because we need to do a lot more pre-press work and setup. But for certain projects, the added investment could be worthwhile. It's always your decision.
Custom Paperback Book Options
- Gloss paper enhances color vibrancy, making images and graphics “pop.”
- Matte paper delivers excellent image quality while providing a smoother reading experience for text.
- Offset paper (uncoated wood-free paper or UWF) offers a natural, absorbent surface with an ideal balance of strength, opacity, and brightness.
- Unlike digital print-on-demand paper, offset-printed novels match the quality of those from major publishers.
Cover Paper
- 200 gsm / 74 lb gloss cover paper
- 250 gsm / 92 lb gloss cover paper
- 300 gsm / 111 lb gloss cover paper
- 350 gsm / 129 lb gloss cover paper
- 200 gsm / 74 lb matte cover paper
- 250 gsm / 92 lb matte cover paper
- 300 gsm / 111 lb matte cover paper
Interior Paper
- 80 gsm / 54 lb coated text paper
- 105 gsm / 71 lb coated text paper
- 128 gsm / 86 lb coated text paper
- 157 gsm / 106 lb coated text paper
- 200 gsm / 135 lb coated text paper
- 80 gsm / 54 lb uncoated text paper
- 100 gsm / 68 lb uncoated text paper
- 120 gsm / 81 lb uncoated text paper
- 140 gsm / 95 lb uncoated text paper
For an added flourish, we can also apply specialist techniques to the cover, including embossing, metallic foil stamping, and UV spot coating. Also, we like to make it easy for you to design your softback book. So, you can use one of our ready-made design templates for the interiors and covers if you wish. And ask us for paper samples. We'll drop them to you in the mail at no cost.
Why choose QinPrinting to print paperback books?
Cost-Effective Pricing: We offer competitive pricing for bulk orders, ensuring you get the best value for large print runs without compromising on quality.
High-Quality Printing: Using advanced technology and premium materials, we guarantee professional-grade printing for every paperback book.
Customization Options: Choose from various paper types, binding styles, and finishes to tailor your paperback books to your exact specifications.
Reliable Service: Our experienced team is dedicated to clear communication, meeting deadlines, and providing excellent customer service throughout the process.
Eco-Friendly Practices: We prioritize sustainability by using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient processes wherever possible.
Shanghai-Based Factory: Our state-of-the-art factory in Shanghai ensures high-quality control and flexibility. Clients are welcome to visit and see our process firsthand.
QinPrinting Rated Excellent for Paperback Book Printing
From start to finish, Jane was incredibly informative and helpful.
Also great communication.
My books arrived, and are beautiful!
Jane was prompt and had GREAT attention to detail were exceptional. Most of my emails were answered within 24 hours, and Jane went above and beyond by sending pictures, samples, and clear explanations to help me understand all the technical aspects of book printing. She even reviewed my proofs thoroughly and pointed out a few important adjustments I needed to make to my PDF files.
Shipping was faster than expected, and when I compared the final copies from Qin Printing with those from IngramSpark, Qin's quality was far superior. The materials looked more polished; paper is higher quality, and the print was crisper. Each book was carefully wrapped.
I ended up saving 75% of my printing budget, and communicating in English was no issue at all. It felt like Jane cared about the project as much as I did. I can't recommend her and Qin Printing enough. Thank you so much for helping bring my book to life!
The books came out beautiful, the print quality is absolutely flawless, the paper is fantastically solid and the laminated soft touch cover is straight up luxury. The book looks and feels 110% professional and it's a glorious to hold.
It even arrived about a month earlier than was forecast so i could deliver them in time for Christmas, even my European/Australian orders!
FAQs
How much does it cost to print a paperback book?
The cost to print a paperback book typically ranges from $0.74 to $17.64 per book, depending on factors such as page count and order quantity. Here's a breakdown for an 8.5" x 11" paperback book:
80 pages + 4-page cover
- 100 pcs: $642 (Unit: $6.42)
- 500 pcs: $911 (Unit: $1.82)
- 1000 pcs: $1,169 (Unit: $1.17)
- 5000 pcs: $3,709 (Unit: $0.74)
128 pages + 4-page cover
- 100 pcs: $948 (Unit: $9.48)
- 500 pcs: $1,366 (Unit: $2.73)
- 1000 pcs: $1,769 (Unit: $1.77)
- 5000 pcs: $5,626 (Unit: $1.13)
208 pages + 4-page cover
- 100 pcs: $1,458 (Unit: $14.58)
- 500 pcs: $2,133 (Unit: $4.27)
- 1000 pcs: $2,767 (Unit: $2.77)
- 5000 pcs: $8,832 (Unit: $1.77)
256 pages + 4-page cover
- 100 pcs: $1,764 (Unit: $17.64)
- 500 pcs: $2,594 (Unit: $5.19)
- 1000 pcs: $3,389 (Unit: $3.39)
- 5000 pcs: $10,748 (Unit: $2.15)
Paper & Printing Details
- Cover: 250 gsm coated cover with matte lamination
- Interior: 105 gsm coated text paper, full color printing
Note: Prices are EXW (Ex Works) from our facility and do not include shipping costs.
Try our easy and convenient online Printing Cost Calculator.
What is paperback book printing?
Paperback book printing, also known as softcover printing or perfect binding, is a popular bookbinding method. It includes two main types: standard perfect binding and sewn perfect binding.
Standard Perfect Binding: This method involves gathering the pages into a “block” and securing them with adhesive before attaching them to a heavier cover. It's a cost-effective option commonly used for novels and various genres, providing a neat and professional look.
Sewn Perfect Binding: Offers greater durability by sewing the pages together before gluing them to the cover. This allows the book to lay flat without damaging the spine, making it ideal for cookbooks and manuals.
Both methods deliver a high-quality, visually appealing product, suitable for different needs and preferences.
What is the MOQ for softcover book printing?
The minimum order quantity is 100 copies.
What are the available options for cover finishes?
We offer a variety of cover finishes, including matte, gloss, and soft-touch lamination. You can also choose foil stamping, embossing, and UV coating for a customized look. These options add durability and a unique feel to your book.
You can choose the finishes in our instant quote calculator.
Do you provide a document checking services?
Yes, we offer a free manual document-checking service to ensure your files are print-ready. Our team will review the document layout, bleed, resolution, and other technical details, allowing you to correct any issues before production begins.
Are there specific design file formats required?
Please submit your artwork and layout in high-resolution PDF format including 3mm bleed with all fonts embedded.
Do you offer paper and printing proofs?
Yes, we provide both digital and physical proofs. Digital proofs help you review the layout on screen, while physical proofs allow you to check the material, color, and finish before mass printing. Visit our Proof Support Page or contact our team for help.
What is the standard production time for soft cover books?
The standard production time is approximately 5 to 10 days, depending on order size and finishing options. Shipping times vary based on your location and shipping method.
Let's Talk!
Designing and preparing a book paperback printing is always a satisfying creative project which adds immense value to your portfolio of published work. Get in touch today to chat through your needs or to ask for a no-obligation quote. We can't wait to help you make your custom paperback book the most beautiful and successful yet!
