How to Choose the Best Platform for Self-Publishing?

With numerous self-publishing platforms available today, choosing the right one for your book can be overwhelming. This guide compares the major platforms to help you make an informed decision.

Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)

Pros:
- Largest market share (over 80% of ebook sales)
- Free to use
- Quick publication (24-72 hours)
- Print-on-demand option
- 70% royalty on ebooks priced $2.99-$9.99

Cons:
- KDP Select requires exclusivity
- Limited print distribution to bookstores
- Competitive marketplace

IngramSpark

Pros:
- Wide distribution to bookstores and libraries
- Professional-quality print options
- Global reach
- You retain your own ISBN

Cons:
- Setup fees ($49 per title)
- Lower royalties than KDP
- Longer setup time

Draft2Digital

Pros:
- Free to use
- Distribution to multiple retailers
- Free ISBN option
- User-friendly interface

Cons:
- Takes percentage of sales
- No print option (ebooks only)
- Less control over pricing

Going Wide vs. Exclusive

Exclusive (KDP Select):

- Access to Kindle Unlimited readers
- Higher visibility on Amazon
- Promotional tools

Wide Distribution:
- Multiple income streams
- Not dependent on single platform
- Reach different reader demographics

Recommendation

For most new authors, start with Amazon KDP for maximum visibility, then consider adding wide distribution through IngramSpark or Draft2Digital as you build your audience.