Is A Subscription Box For Books Worth It Compared To Buying Used

For book lovers, the joy of reading often extends beyond the pages—how we acquire our next read matters. In recent years, book subscription boxes have surged in popularity, promising curated selections, surprise reads, and a monthly ritual of literary discovery. At the same time, the secondhand book market remains robust, offering affordability, sustainability, and treasure-hunt appeal. So, which option truly delivers better value?

This isn’t just about price per book. It’s about experience, variety, personalization, and long-term reading habits. Whether you're a voracious reader on a budget or someone who values curation and discovery, understanding the trade-offs between subscription boxes and used books is essential.

The Rise of Book Subscription Boxes

Subscription services like Book of the Month, Literati, OwlCrate, and Fairyloot have transformed how readers access new titles. These boxes typically deliver one to three books per month, often accompanied by themed merchandise such as bookmarks, candles, or art prints. The appeal lies in discovery: subscribers trust curators to handpick titles that match their tastes, sometimes introducing them to authors they wouldn’t have found otherwise.

Many services now offer customization. For example, Book of the Month allows members to choose from five featured titles each month, while niche boxes cater to genres like romance, fantasy, or memoirs. Some even include author interviews or exclusive editions, adding collectible value.

Yet, despite the excitement, these conveniences come at a cost—both financial and practical. Monthly fees range from $10 to over $50, depending on the service and add-ons. And unlike browsing a bookstore or online marketplace, subscribers may receive books that don’t align with their current mood or interests.

Tip: If you’re new to book subscriptions, take advantage of introductory offers—many services provide your first box for $5 or less.

The Enduring Value of Used Books

Purchasing secondhand books has long been a staple of frugal and eco-conscious readers. From thrift stores and library sales to online platforms like ThriftBooks, Better World Books, and local Facebook groups, the used book market is vast and accessible.

One of the most compelling advantages is cost. A gently used hardcover can cost as little as $3–$7, compared to $18–$30 for a new release. This makes deep reading runs—such as bingeing an entire series or exploring a new genre—much more affordable. Additionally, many used books carry a sense of history; inscriptions, marginalia, or vintage covers can enhance the reading experience.

Sustainability is another major draw. Buying used reduces demand for new printing, lowering paper waste and carbon emissions. According to the Green Press Initiative, producing a single hardcover book generates approximately 7.5 kilograms of CO₂. Choosing secondhand directly mitigates this environmental impact.

However, limitations exist. Selection depends on availability, and finding specific new releases or obscure titles can be challenging. Condition varies widely, and shipping costs from some online sellers can erode savings. Plus, without curation, readers must invest time in searching and vetting options.

“Used books are not just cheaper—they’re part of a circular economy that respects both readers and the planet.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Sustainable Publishing Researcher

Cost Comparison: Subscription vs. Secondhand

To assess true value, let’s compare real-world costs over a six-month period.

Option	Books Received	Average Cost per Book	Total 6-Month Cost	Additional Perks
Book Subscription (e.g., Book of the Month)	6 books	$15.00	$90 + shipping (~$12)	Curated picks, early access, member community
Used Books (average purchase)	12–18 books	$4.50	$54–$81 (including shipping)	Eco-friendly, wider selection, potential collectibles
Premium Subscription (e.g., OwlCrate)	6 boxes (1–2 books each)	$25.00+	$150+	Exclusive editions, merch, vibrant themes

The data shows a clear trend: used books offer significantly lower cost per volume. Even when factoring in shipping, a dedicated secondhand buyer can acquire twice as many books for the same price as a mid-tier subscription. However, subscriptions offer intangible benefits—anticipation, curation, and exclusivity—that some readers are willing to pay for.

When Subscriptions Make Sense

Despite the higher cost, book subscription boxes shine in specific scenarios:

• Readers seeking discovery: If you’ve fallen into a reading rut or want exposure to diverse voices and genres, a curated box can break the cycle.
• Fans of special editions: Many subscription services partner with publishers to offer sprayed edges, alternate covers, or signed copies unavailable elsewhere.
• Gifting: A themed box makes a thoughtful, ready-to-gift present for fellow bibliophiles.
• Supporting authors: Subscriptions often spotlight debut or indie authors, helping boost visibility and sales.

For those who value the ritual of receiving a surprise package each month, the emotional payoff can outweigh the financial cost. As one subscriber shared:

💬 Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Literary Reawakening

Sarah, a 34-year-old teacher, hadn’t finished a novel in two years due to burnout. She joined a feminist literature subscription box on a whim. “Getting a book every month reminded me why I loved reading,” she said. “It wasn’t just the book—it was the zine, the discussion guide, the feeling of being part of something.” Within six months, she’d read eight books and joined a local book club. While she still buys used books, her subscription reignited her passion.

Optimizing Your Reading Strategy: A Balanced Approach

Rather than choosing one model exclusively, many savvy readers blend both methods. This hybrid approach maximizes value, variety, and enjoyment. Consider the following step-by-step strategy:

1. Assess your reading goals: Are you focused on quantity, discovery, collecting, or relaxation?
2. Start with a short-term subscription: Commit to 3 months of a service to test its fit. Track how many books you actually read and enjoy.
3. Supplement with used books: Use your local library, thrift stores, or online resale sites to fill gaps or explore side interests.
4. Resell or donate unopened subscription books: If you receive a title you won’t read, pass it on through Buy Nothing groups or sell it to recoup costs.
5. Re-evaluate quarterly: Ask yourself: Is the subscription saving me time? Expanding my horizons? Or just gathering dust?

Tip: Pair your subscription with a reading journal. Note whether curated picks matched your taste—this helps refine future choices.

Checklist: Is a Book Subscription Right for You?

Before signing up, ask yourself the following:

• ☑ Do I struggle to find new books I’ll enjoy?
• ☑ Am I excited by the idea of surprise deliveries?
• ☑ Do I value special editions or bookish merchandise?
• ☑ Can I afford $10–$30/month consistently?
• ☑ Do I have space to store 1–3 new books monthly?
• ☐ Do I often abandon unread subscriptions or boxes?
• ☐ Would I rather spend that money on more books—used or new?

If most checked boxes are positive, a subscription could enhance your reading life. If the bottom two resonate more, secondhand might be your best path.

FAQ

Can I cancel a book subscription anytime?

Most services allow cancellation at any time, though you’ll usually receive the current month’s box. Always check the provider’s policy before joining. Some require a minimum 3-month commitment.

Are used books sanitary or safe to buy online?

Yes. Paper degrades viruses quickly, and books are generally low-risk. For peace of mind, wipe covers with a dry microfiber cloth or let the book air out for a day. Avoid purchasing from sellers who store books in damp conditions.

Do subscription boxes really save time compared to browsing used books?

They can. If you spend hours researching new releases or feel overwhelmed by choice, a curated pick eliminates decision fatigue. But if you enjoy browsing and discovering hidden gems, secondhand shopping may feel more rewarding.

Conclusion: Worth It Depends on Your Values

So, is a subscription box for books worth it compared to buying used? The answer hinges on what you value most—cost efficiency and sustainability, or convenience, curation, and collectibility.

Used books win on price, volume, and environmental impact. They empower readers to read more, spend less, and reduce waste. Meanwhile, subscription boxes offer a personalized, engaging experience that can rekindle a love of reading and support emerging authors.

The smartest readers don’t see this as an either/or choice. They use subscriptions strategically—perhaps seasonally or for special genres—and rely on secondhand sources for everyday reading. By combining both, you gain the breadth of the past and the excitement of the new.

🚀 Ready to optimize your reading habits? Try a single subscription box this month, then visit a used bookstore the next week. Compare the experience, track your enjoyment, and decide what truly adds value to your literary life.