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Magazines: Wired vs. Rolling Stone

Quick Verdict

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.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeWiredRolling Stone
Target AudienceReaders 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 FocusEmerging 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 FrequencyBi-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 AccessibilityAvailable 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 QualityHigh-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 StyleGenerally informal but polished. Champions a quirky, individualist spirit, and effective writing is prioritized.Relatable and trendy.
Use of Photography and VisualsEffectively 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 ImpactSignificant 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 StanceRated 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 CoverageProminent 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 CoverageMentions art, culture and fashion.Wide range of genres, including blues, country, folk, dance, and reggae.

Overall Comparison

Wired: $24.00/year (12 issues), 30M+ monthly visitors; Rolling Stone: $49.95/year (12 issues), $4.16/issue.

Pros and Cons

Wired

Pros:
  • In-depth coverage of current and future trends in technology.
  • Known for being at the forefront of graphic design and visual innovation.
  • Significant digital presence.
  • Cutting-edge tech feel in print edition.
  • Informal but polished writing style.
  • Innovative use of photography and visuals.
  • Influential in shaping discourse around the digital revolution.
Cons:
  • Rated as Left-Center biased.

Rolling Stone

Pros:
  • Covers a wide range of topics including music, politics, and popular culture
  • Features provocative photography and iconic cover photos
  • Offers a significant discount on the cover price with a subscription
  • Provides digital access through its website and app
  • Has been a cultural institution for over five decades
Cons:
  • Leans liberal, which may not appeal to all readers
  • Some critics have accused the magazine of being a political tool

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