Self-publishing has become an increasingly popular route for writers to get their work out to the world. With the rise of digital publishing, there are now numerous self-publishing platforms available, including Amazon KDP and IngramSpark. In this article, we will compare Amazon KDP and IngramSpark and help you decide which platform is better for your needs.
What is Amazon KDP?
Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) is a self-publishing platform that allows authors to publish and sell their books on Amazon’s Kindle store. KDP offers a range of tools and services to help authors create and publish their books in both digital and print formats. KDP is free to use and allows authors to earn up to 70% royalty on the sale of their books.
What is IngramSpark?
IngramSpark is a self-publishing platform that allows authors to publish and distribute their books in both digital and print formats. IngramSpark is more geared towards professional publishers and independent bookstores, but is open to individual authors as well. IngramSpark charges a fee for their services, but they offer more customization options and wider distribution options than KDP.
Comparing Amazon KDP and IngramSpark
Costs
Amazon KDP is free to use, and there are no upfront costs or fees associated with publishing your book on the platform. Amazon takes a percentage of each sale as their commission, but authors can earn up to 70% royalty on the sale of their books.
IngramSpark charges a fee for their services, including a setup fee and a fee for each print-on-demand book printed. They also take a percentage of each sale as their commission, but authors can earn up to 45% royalty on the sale of their books.
Customization and Formatting
Amazon KDP offers a range of formatting tools to help authors create their books in both digital and print formats. However, the customization options are limited, and authors are restricted to Amazon’s formatting requirements. KDP does not offer any support for creating hardcover books.
IngramSpark offers more customization options, allowing authors to create books with their own formatting and design. IngramSpark supports hardcover books, and authors can choose from a wide range of paper and binding options.
Distribution
Amazon KDP offers distribution through the Amazon Kindle store, which is the largest ebook retailer in the world. Amazon also offers print-on-demand services through their subsidiary company, CreateSpace.
IngramSpark offers wider distribution options, including distribution to major online retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books. IngramSpark also offers distribution to physical bookstores and libraries through their partnership with Ingram Book Group.
Support
Amazon KDP offers basic support through their online help center, but they do not offer personalized support for individual authors.
IngramSpark offers more comprehensive support, including a dedicated support team and access to Ingram’s network of publishing professionals.
Which platform is better?
The answer to this question ultimately depends on your individual needs and goals as an author. Amazon KDP is a great option for authors who are looking to publish and sell their books primarily through Amazon. KDP is free to use, and the platform is easy to navigate. However, the customization options are limited, and the support is basic.
IngramSpark is a better option for authors who are looking for wider distribution options and more customization options. While there are fees associated with using IngramSpark, the platform offers a higher level of support and access to Ingram’s network of publishing professionals.
In conclusion, both Amazon KDP and IngramSpark are excellent self-publishing platforms. If you are looking to publish your book primarily on Amazon and want a simple, easy-to-use platform, KDP is a good option. If you want wider distribution options and more control over the customization of your book, IngramSpark is a better choice.
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