Both have pros and cons. I would say that an offline wallet could be safer than a hardware wallet if done right.
Some reasons on why I prefer an offline wallet:
1. It's cheaper;
2. I don't have to trust the wallet manufacturer;
3. I have full access over my private-keys.
On the other side, hardware wallets are way more convenient and user-friendly.
TryNinja you are right, the offline wallet is not safe for every user, first reason private-keys is not safe & she cannot use instant future/transaction so I think the best wallet online wallet.
Using a offline wallet is equally safe as using a hardware wallet ?
brawdias please see details Using a offline wallet for Visit go to link
https://myetherwallet.github.io/knowledge-base/offline/ethereum-cold-storage-with-myetherwallet.htmlSecurity warning
When you deposit money at a bank, you let them worry about security. Bitcoins, however, are stored on your computer and that means you are fully responsible for securing them.
Unfortunately, most people are not security experts, which means it's very hard for them to fully understand the risks. They usually don't. This increases the risk of making a fatal mistake that will result in Bitcoin theft.
For example, paper wallets are typically generated by potentially compromised PCs connected to the Internet, then printed for offline storage. This is not enough as malware running on the computer may steal your private keys and then later steal any Bitcoin you send to that address. Many Internet connected printers also save printed documents to memory.
https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/How_to_set_up_a_secure_offline_savings_walletEdit: I am not offline wallet user, I do not try this.