Unabridged versus adbridged audio book. Which type of audio book should you choose? Which will give you you the most enjoyment? Before we answer this question, let’s go over the differences between the two.

Most books are written to be read silently and would take many hours to read aloud. Hence, when most audio books are being prepared for release, the book text will need to be shortened, or abridged.

Which parts of the book are removed? The abridged version could be achieved by removing the back story from a fiction piece. Peripheral parts of the plot could also end up on the cutting room floor. For non-fiction books, examples and stories may be removed. Although most books are released in abridged audio book form, some popular titles are released in both abridged and unabridged.

What makes an unabridged audio book different from an abridged audio book? An unabridged audio book contains every word from the original book. These books are especially of interest to people who have poor eyesight or are blind.

If a book is released with both versions, the abridged version will be cheaper than the unabridged version. For example, look at these examples of audio book CDs and notice the difference in price and reading time:

The 6th Target by James Patterson
Unabridged - $39.98 - 8.25 hours
Abridged - $29.98 - 6 hours 20 minutes

Back on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber
Unabridged - $36.95 - 11 hours
Abridged - $24.95 - 5 hours 9 minutes

Einstein: His Life and Universe by Walter Isaacson
Unabridged - $49.95 - 21.5 hours
Abridged - $29.95 - 7 hours

So, let’s explore the original question. Which is better, an unabridged or abridged audio book? It depends on your circumstances and preferences. If you want a shorter and cheaper version of the book, get the abridged audio book version. Want to experience the full text of the book the way the author intended? Pick up an unabridged copy.