Rent, buy or used textbooks: which saves the most
Should you rent, buy or get used textbooks? A simple rule by class type, plus when digital copies win and when buying new is the only real option.
Mathieu Roux4 min read
Verdict: Rent for one-class books, buy used for books you keep. New copies are for access codes and required editions.
Textbooks are one of the costliest school items. The cheapest option depends on what you will do with the book after class, and what the course requires.
Which wins on what?
| Question | Rent | Buy used | Buy new |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lowest cost for one class | Often best | Close | Rarely |
| You want to keep it | No | Good | Good |
| Highlighting and notes | Limited | Yes | Yes |
| Access code included | Rarely | Rarely | Often |
| Resale later | None | Possible | Possible |
| Risk of late fees | Yes | No | No |
Pick rent if
- You will not need the book after the class ends.
- The book is heavy and you only read parts.
- You can return it on time.
Pick used if
- It is a book in your main subject.
- You want to write in it.
- You might sell it later.
Pick new if
- The class needs an access code you can only buy new.
- The teacher requires the latest edition.
- You cannot find a used copy in good shape.
Rule: Ask the instructor which edition is required, and whether an older one works. Many classes allow an older edition, which is usually much cheaper.
What should you watch for?
Rental dates and late fees. Mark the return date on your calendar when the book arrives. Check the condition on arrival. If pages are torn or marked, report it right away.
Also compare the campus store with other sellers. Policies differ, so read the return rules before you pay. For other student savings, see student discount vs sale price and when to buy school supplies to pay less.
What does it look like with numbers?
These numbers are round and made up. A new book is $200. A used copy is $120. A rental for the term is $60. You will not keep the book. Renting saves $140 over new. If you keep the book and could resell it for $60 later, used costs $60 net. Then used and rental are about the same, and you also have the book.
Add the risks. Rental late fees can wipe out the saving. A used book may lack a code. Ask which matters most to you: lowest cost, keeping the book, or no hassle.
Where else can you look?
- The library. Many have course copies or can borrow from other libraries.
- A classmate who took the course.
- The instructor's reserve copy.
- A digital copy for a short term.
Rule: Check free sources before you open a store tab.
When should you skip the book?
Some classes use only parts of a book, or the instructor posts slides and notes. Wait until the first class before you buy. Ask what is truly required. A book listed as "recommended" is often not needed. If you must have it right away, rent for the first weeks and decide later.
Do not buy a bundle with a workbook, code and book unless the syllabus says you need all three. Bundles cost more and are hard to return once the code is opened.
Quick questions
Is it cheaper to rent or buy used?
Renting is often cheaper for one class. Buying used is better if you keep the book.
Can I use an older edition?
Often yes, but ask the instructor first.
What about digital copies?
They can cost less and weigh nothing. Check if the course allows them and how long you keep access.
When should I order?
After you see the syllabus, and early enough to be ready for the first week.
More to read
Keep reading
Student discount vs sale price: which saves more
Student discount vs sale price: how to compare the two, when a student offer beats a sale, and when a sale is the cheaper way to buy.
Mathieu Roux3 min read
When to buy school supplies to pay less
When to buy school supplies: late July through August is the usual window, but the first week is the time to skip. Here is the simple plan.
Mathieu Roux2 min read
Back to school laptop deals: when to buy one
Back to school laptop deals usually start in July and run through August, but the best price can come in November. Here is how to time it.
Mathieu Roux4 min read
Should you buy school clothes early or wait for sales
Should you buy school clothes early or wait for sales? A simple rule for kids who grow fast, plus what to buy now and what to leave for fall clearance.
Mathieu Roux2 min read
Dorm room essentials: when to buy and what to wait on
Buying dorm room essentials is easier when you know what to buy early, what to wait on, and what to skip. A simple timing plan for move-in day.
Mathieu Roux5 min read
Chromebook vs laptop for school: which one to buy
A Chromebook vs laptop for school comes down to what the student runs. Here is a simple rule, a table and when the cheaper one is the better pick.
Mathieu Roux4 min read