Why did cassette tapes become more popular than LP discs in the United States by 1982?

By 1982, audiocassettes had surpassed LP discs in sales in the United States primarily due to their convenience and versatility as a recording medium.1

Unlike the continuous-loop cartridge, which was designed mainly for playback, the cassette was rewindable, making it easier for users to control for selective "spotting" and amateur recording. Furthermore, the cassette format eliminated the need for manual tape threading, as the tape was housed in a self-contained, rectangular plastic container that could be inserted directly into a recorder for immediate use. These features made the cassette a highly practical and accessible format for consumers, contributing to its rise in popularity over the traditional vinyl record.12