digital magazine vs print magazine

Digital Magazine vs Print Magazine Comparison

Digital Magazine vs Print Magazine

When it comes to the debate about Digital Magazine vs Print Magazine, there’s a lot of factors to consider. Personal preference is key to which people choose to go for; some people really enjoy the physical, tactility of a print magazine, whilst others prioritise the convenience of digital magazines. We take a look at the pros and cons of each, to see which magazine wins out: digital vs print.

Digital magazine vs print magazine

Cost

Print magazines incur a lot of costs to get them out on to shop shelves. Whereas both types of magazine have content costs (i.e. writers, graphics designers, editors etc) print magazines become much more expensive than digital when you take into account printing and distribution costs.

However, it’s important to note that physical magazines often cost more than digital magazines, and people are happy to pay more for the tactile experience! As such, the higher cost is offset by the higher price point.

Distribution

Physical print magazines must be physically distributed – meaning a higher cost, more of a carbon footprint and limited availability. Digital magazines will never ‘run out of stock’ and have limited distribution costs (they will have to pay for a website hosting or service).

However, the limited stock makes magazines sought-after and valuable. Like any other product, the idea of exclusivity is appealing to the customer. Once again, this allows print magazines to be priced higher than digital ones, meaning a higher profit margin.

Advertising

Magazines often make their main profit margins from advertising. Whereas you can advertise in a digital magazine, the lack of physicality means it’s easier for customers to swipe on by and ignore the advert.

With a printed magazine, you can include full page adverts that catch the eye, and you can also add inserts. Inserts are thin, flyer-like adverts inserted between the pages of your magazine. Not only are these difficult to brush over, the reader will have to physically engage with them in order to read the page underneath- a captive audience makes for more advertising sales.

In terms of advertising the magazine itself, the digital and the print worlds are not always at war. Sometimes the best marketing strategy is to combine forces; use traditional marketing methods like signage, banners and leaflets alongside a strong website, PPC campaign and social media presence.

Convenience

The printed magazine offers a traditional and tactile reading experience, where customers can take their time and enjoy the experience. Physical print magazines can be upcycled and create attractive pictures and collages; offering the customer another dimension to their purchase. However, if you’re travelling, it’s impractical to carry cases of magazines with you.

With digital magazines, you can download hundreds of your favourites on to your Kindle, or peruse many online magazine sites on your tablet or laptop. For convenience, digital magazines win out hands-down…. Unless of course you’re going somewhere with no internet!

Conclusion

Here’s what we’ve concluded when it comes to digital magazines vs print…

Digital PROs

  • Cheaper to produce
  • Easier to distribute on a large scale
  • Convenient for multiple magazines on the go

Digital CONs

  • Must be priced cheaper to be competitive
  • Lacks ‘exclusivity’ of physical magazines
  • Lacks ‘tactility’ of physical magazines
  • Poor advertising potential ‘in-magazine’

Print PROS

  • Can be priced at a higher point than digital, allowing better profit margins
  • Better advertising revenue from physical inserts
  • Pleasing tactile experience
  • Opportunity for upcycling and donating to doctor’s surgeries, women’s shelters etc.

Print CONS

  • More expensive to produce
  • Harder to distribute

Whereas ultimately the choice will come down to consumer preference, it’s advisable in this day and age for anyone creating a magazine to provide both options to their customers. Hard magazines will allow for tactility, exclusivity and a more traditional reading experience. A digital version can be priced more cheaply and allow for an  ‘on the go’ user experience. Offer your customers both and watch your profits soar!

FAQS

How Do Digital Magazine Make Money?

How do digital magazines make money?

Digital magazines make money from user subscriptions or one-off purchases, advertising in the magazine itself and ads on the webpage that supports the content.

How can I create my own magazine?

Check out our blog on how to create your own magazine company for some top tips! If you’re looking to design and print your own magazine, EazyPrint can help you – simply take a look at our printing options (newsletter style magazines and booklet magazines), or get in touch today.

What if I can’t create the design?

We’ve got you covered! Our team of skilled in-house graphic designers can create your logo, branding and artwork from scratch. Simply get in touch today to see how they can help you with your perfect magazine printing.

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