It goes without saying that when it comes to choosing between Amazon and your local bookseller, Amazon wins on many levels. For example, it helps you choose better books, as recommendations are based on what you've already read rather than what store associates like. Some would say that buying books on Amazon is also better for authors and the economy, but that's another debate for another day.
At the same time, Amazon is far from perfect. Even putting aside the supposed less than ideal working conditions, other online bookstores are cheaper, offer more expertise in niche genres, and more besides. We found seven different online bookstore alternatives that will have you considering switching from Amazon from time to time.
Based in Portland, Oregon, this bookstore has a physical presence in various locations around the city, as well as a website for those of us who don't live in Portland.
The website is easy to use and well organized. There you can find new and used books, as well as various programs, CDs and DVDs. To help you choose wisely, under “Staff Picks” you can find several recommendations for the best reads The 11 Best Sites to Find Which Books to Read Next The 11 Best Sites to Find Which Books to Read Next Do you want your next read to be good? These are the book recommendation websites to look for books to read next. Read more, including some picks of the month, and 25 "books to read before you die." The option to sell your own books online and in the store is also helpful.
Recommended for you if: You are looking for unique editions signed by the authors..
Best Feature: Comprehensive customer support:In-store, phone, and email, as well as an extensive list of FAQs and customer support materials that can be found on the website.
Where it falls short: The website does not offer free shipping. The return conditions are quite strict and you only have 30 days from purchase to complete the return for a full refund.
BAM offers a diverse inventory including new, used, and bargain books that come with attractive prices. You will also find toys, games and magazines listed on the website.
The website is clean and comes with useful benefits. A store locator will help you find the closest store if you prefer to buy books in person. There's also convenient live chat support for any queries you may have when shopping online.
Recommended for you if: You are looking for a wide variety of titles..
Best Feature: The bookstore has for sale or “bargain” books available.
Where it falls short: There is no option to sell your own books through BAM.
This online bookstore operates only through third party booksellers. That means when you buy a book from Alibris, you buy it from an independent online book seller. This makes the platform perfect for those looking for used, rare or collectible titles.
The website offers various discounts on books How to find the cheapest books online How to find the cheapest books online I've written before about my love of reading, but I also have a part of me that loves bargains and hates spending a dime unnecessary. What's a man to do when he wants to shop and... Read More Alibris also offers free shipping on all items.
Recommended for you if: You are looking to buy used or rare books (first edition, antiquarian and signed).
Best Feature: Bargain prices on all items, as well as the option to rent books.
Where it falls short: Alibris operates through third-party booksellers who have different return policies, which can make returning your books a bit complex.
Peachpit specializes in the sale of books, e-books, and other educational materials for creative professionals. You'll find a wide range of photography-related titles, everything to get you started in Adobe Photoshop, academic resources for web design and development, and video creation.
This bookstore not only focuses on print books, but also offers online courses and digital materials for students on the go. The website also contains a blog where you can find information from community members about using software, gadgets, and adopting a digital lifestyle.
Recommended for you if: You're looking for high-quality creative and tech-related content.
Best Feature: With the platform's clear focus on technology, it's easy to find products specific to your field.
Where it falls short: Some of the titles may seem a bit pricey. However, Peachpit does offer a discount system, including deals of the week and promotions. “bunches”.
Barnes &Noble is one of the largest book retailers with hundreds of brick and mortar book stores and a sizable online presence.
In addition to books of all kinds, the store sells e-books for the company's reading device, Nook, CDs, DVDs, games, toys, electronics and more. Choose this bookstore if you want to buy many items at once without overpaying for shipping.
Recommended for you if: You're not looking for something specific, and you want a large selection to choose from.
Best Feature: Free shipping once you meet the minimum purchase requirement, simple return process.
Where it falls short: A fairly short period of time to return your items at 14 days.
Our next pick is Valore Books, an online bookstore that specializes in textbooks. This source offers you the opportunity to save money on textbooks 3 Tried and True Tips for Buying Cheap Textbooks 3 Tried and True Tips for Buying Cheap Textbooks The start of my fall semester classes is approaching faster than expected. I want, marking the inevitable end of a spectacular summer for me. That doesn't mean I don't enjoy the process of preparing for... Read More
The website also offers book rentals at even lower cost, as well as buybacks, another great way to save money and for the company to increase its inventory.
Recommended for you if: You are looking for textbooks and academic material..
Best Feature: After use, you can sell the books you bought from Valore Books to the company.
Where it falls short: The book selection is limited to textbooks only.
Better World Books is not just a bookstore, but also a charity with a mission to change the world by improving literacy around the world. In addition to buying and selling books, they accept book donations, reuse them in literacy initiatives, or recycle them.
There are many options in both the new and used book categories, which are searchable by genre. You will find the two best new books The 25 best books to read in 2018 The 25 best books to read in 2018 2018 has been a great literary year. In this article, we focus on the standout books from a handful of categories, as well as the best-selling books of 2018. Read More and the classics here. The company also offers free shipping and a flexible return policy.
Recommended for you if: She wants to help promote literacy by buying her next book on the website.
Best Feature: Cheap prices with a number of discount options available.
Where it falls short: When returning a book, it can take up to 60 days to receive a full refund.
Although all the online bookstores mentioned above have their advantages, Amazon is still one of the most well-known names in the industry. Their website is extremely user friendly, has a wide selection of books of all kinds, and makes it easy to find a particular book. 7 Ways To Search And Shop Virtually For Books From Amazon 7 Ways To Search And Shop Virtually For Books From Amazon Shopping on Amazon for books? So your first destination is probably the big search field at the top. But as a long-time Amazon book shopper, you'll be glad to know it's… Read More in no time.
At the same time, more and more people are trying to avoid using Amazon, switching to using smaller and potentially more ethical companies.
If you're looking for recommendations, e-books, and more, these 10 must-have apps for book lovers might help.
What do you think about this topic? Are you a devoted Amazon user? Or are you looking to switch to using a different library? How do you choose where to buy your books? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
