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thriftbooks.com

ThriftBooks is an online bargain bookstore best for readers who want cheap used copies, long backlists and out-of-print finds. Compare prices here if you shop used books in bulk, hunt backlist titles, or want a low-cost way to stock a home library.

best_forbargain used books & backlist hunting

typical discount range30–80% off new-list prices (used copies)

delivery timeMost US orders ship quickly; typical delivery 3–8 business days

return window30 days for most purchases (damaged items refundable)

payment methodsMajor credit cards and PayPal

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Huge used inventory

Massive backlist and multiple copies — good chance of finding out-of-print or older editions.

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Low used prices

Prices are usually far below new-list; used-condition grading makes the trade-offs clear.

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ReadingRewards program

Loyalty points accumulate on purchases and reviews, which you can redeem for discounts.

What ThriftBooks is known for

ThriftBooks is strongest for sheer volume of used books: lots of paperback runs, older hardcover editions and long backlists that big retailers often stop stocking. If you’re hunting a specific out-of-print title, multiple-condition copies are frequently available so you can choose price vs. wear.

How to get the best price

Start by joining ReadingRewards and the mailing list — points and email coupons are the main ways to lower costs further. Compare listings for the same ISBN (condition affects price), buy multiple books together to hit free-shipping thresholds or earn more rewards, and watch the site’s daily deals/clearance pages for repeat-price drops.

Shipping, returns and trust signals

ThriftBooks ships domestically from U.S. warehouses and lists condition grades so you know what to expect; damaged or incorrect items are eligible for return. Typical delivery falls within several business days; there's a 30-day return window for most purchases — keep photos of condition if you need a refund.

What they sell

Used PaperbackUsed HardcoverChildren's BooksTextbooksMystery & ThrillerRomanceYoung AdultRare & Out-of-Print

Our take

Worth it when

Cheap used copies and bulk bargains make it a good choice for building a personal library
Large inventory improves odds of finding older or out-of-print editions
ReadingRewards and email coupons can shave the per-book price even further

Skip it if

Skip it if you need brand-new, pristine-condition copies or the latest releases immediately
Skip it if you need fast international shipping — domestic service and timing are better

Quick answers

Does ThriftBooks price-match?

ThriftBooks doesn’t advertise a price-match policy. Their value comes from already-low used prices, condition options and loyalty rewards rather than matching competitors at checkout.

When are the best times to find deals?

Watch the daily deals/clearance pages and sign up for email — sitewide and category promos show up periodically, and coupons for subscribers or new customers are common.

What if a book arrives damaged or not as described?

Keep photos and contact customer service — ThriftBooks accepts returns for damaged or incorrect items, and refunds or replacements are issued within their 30-day return window.