More than 40 percent of Shanghai readers still prefer reading physical books over digital ones, according to a recent survey on reading habits.

Released on Wednesday, the results of the survey were derived from interviews of 4,821 respondents. While physical books are still the most popular among readers, the survey, which has been conducted annually for eight years, showed that the number of those who prefer reading physical books has decreased from 52.71 percent in 2012 to the current 43.52 percent. 

The survey noted that this shift is due to the growing user base of digital readers and the convenience that the digital medium offers. The ease of use, speed of access and lower prices of electronic books have also resulted in higher sales than physical books.

Around 30 percent of the respondents said that they have no preference between physical and electronic books. More than 25 percent of the respondents said that they preferred reading electronic books.

He Chenglin contributed to this story.