Wired is ideal for readers interested in technology and its cultural impact, offering in-depth coverage and innovative design. Rolling Stone is better suited for those interested in music, politics, and popular culture, with a focus on celebrity coverage and cultural trends.
Attribute | Wired | Rolling Stone |
---|---|---|
Target Audience | Readers interested in technology and its impact on culture, business, and politics. Historically aimed at affluent, college-educated men aged 30-50 working in or interested in technology, but has broadened its appeal to include a younger, more diverse audience. | Mainstream audience, particularly young adults. Target demographic is middle of the road rock fans of all ages. In 2019, the largest age range was 25-34 years old (26%), followed by 18-24 (21%), with 18% being 55 and over. In 2019, 60% of readers were male and 40% female. |
Editorial Focus | Emerging technologies and their effects on culture, the economy, and politics. Covers technology, culture, architecture, design, business, politics, philosophy, and the economy. | Music, politics, and popular culture. Known for its coverage of rock music and political reporting. Also includes entertainment, movies, television, technology, and national affairs. |
Publication Frequency | Bi-monthly, with six issues per year. Previously published monthly until 2024. | Monthly. Initially published bi-weekly. |
Subscription Price | $24.00 for a one-year subscription (12 issues). Other prices and discounts may be available. | $49.95 for a one-year subscription (12 issues), which is $4.16 per issue. |
Digital Accessibility | Available in both print and online editions. Wired.com attracts over 30 million unique visitors every month. | Rollingstone.com and numerous international editions. App for smartphones. |
Print Quality | High-quality print design and innovative use of graphics. Employs modern and sleek photography and illustrations. Uses a 10-column grid for dynamic compositions. | Shifted from saddle-stitched to perfect bound in 1994. Changed size to standard dimensions in 2008. |
Writing Style | Generally informal but polished. Champions a quirky, individualist spirit, and effective writing is prioritized. | Relatable and trendy. |
Use of Photography and Visuals | Effectively uses photography and visuals to enhance storytelling. Each issue features diagrams, technical illustrations, and cropped photographs with captions and annotations. | Provocative photography and cover photos featuring musicians, politicians, athletes, and actors. Annie Leibovitz began running photographs in the magazine in 1970 and became chief photographer in 1973. |
Cultural Impact | Significant impact on contemporary culture and trends, shaping discourse around the digital revolution. Credited with coining the term 'crowdsourcing'. | A cultural touchstone for over 50 years, capturing the pulse of popular music, politics, and pop culture. A leading voice in journalism and cultural criticism. |
Political Stance | Rated as Left-Center biased in its wording and report choices. Presents a left-leaning viewpoint on some political issues. | Leans liberal. Routinely supported liberal candidates and causes since the 1990s. |
Celebrity Coverage | Prominent technology figures often appear on the cover. | Interviews with rock stars, political figures, and cultural icons. Covers celebrities in music, film, and television. |
Music Genre Coverage | Mentions art, culture and fashion. | Wide range of genres, including blues, country, folk, dance, and reggae. |