IngramSpark vs. KDP: Which Platform is Right for Your Book?
A side-by-side comparison of IngramSpark and Amazon KDP. Explore distribution, print quality, and royalties to choose the best platform for your goals.
When it comes to self-publishing, two major players dominate the conversation: IngramSpark and Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Each offers powerful tools, but which one is best for your publishing goals? Let's break it down.
Amazon KDP
Amazon's all-in-one platform, offering free and fast access to the Kindle Store and Amazon's global print-on-demand network. It's user-friendly and ideal for authors focused on the Amazon ecosystem.
IngramSpark
Owned by the world's largest book distributor, IngramSpark is the top choice for authors who want wide distribution to over 40,000 retailers, including independent bookstores, libraries, and universities.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Amazon KDP | IngramSpark | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distribution Reach | Primarily Amazon ecosystem | Global distribution to 40,000+ retailers | IngramSpark |
| Print Quality | Good standard quality | Superior bookstore-quality printing | IngramSpark |
| Royalties | 60% royalty (minus print cost) | 40-55% depending on wholesale discount | KDP |
| Bookstore Access | Most bookstores avoid KDP books | Designed for bookstore supply chain | IngramSpark |
| Setup Fees | Free to publish | Setup and revision fees | KDP |
| Print Options | Limited trim sizes, no dust jackets | Wide range of formats and options | IngramSpark |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Amazon KDP if:
- You want to publish quickly and cheaply
- You're focused on Amazon sales and Kindle readers
- You prefer a simple, user-friendly interface
- You want higher royalties on Amazon sales
Choose IngramSpark if:
- Your priority is getting into libraries and bookstores
- High print quality is essential
- You want global distribution beyond Amazon
- You're building a professional author brand
💡 Publishing Tip: Many authors use both! Publish your paperback on KDP for Amazon sales and on IngramSpark for wide distribution. Just be sure to own your ISBN.
The Bottom Line
Choosing between IngramSpark and KDP comes down to your goals. KDP offers speed and simplicity on Amazon, while IngramSpark provides professionalism, quality, and access to the broader publishing world.
Need help choosing the right platform for your book? Contact Books Sphere today for expert guidance on your publishing strategy.
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