How to Choose a Print-on-Demand Platform

Quick answer

Pick a platform by asking where your readers buy, what each pays per copy at your price, how much control you want and how much work you will accept. Many authors use KDP for Amazon and add one other platform for wider reach.

Quick facts

  • Each platform has its own printing cost and its own royalty formula.
  • KDP pays 60% of list price minus printing cost for paperbacks at or above the tier price.
  • Platforms other than KDP may apply a wholesale discount, which changes what a sale earns.
  • The same book can earn a different amount on each platform at the same list price.
  • Always confirm the final figure in the platform's own screen.

There is no single best platform. The right choice depends on where your readers are, what you want to control and what each service pays for your book.

Where do your readers buy?

If most readers use Amazon, KDP is the obvious start. If you want bookshops and libraries to be able to order your book, look at IngramSpark. Barnes & Noble Press reaches that retailer's customers, and Lulu offers direct sales and flexible formats.

What does each pay per copy?

This is a calculation, not a guess. Enter your page count, trim size and list price into the royalty calculator and compare the figures side by side. Remember that some platforms apply a wholesale discount before they pay you, and printing costs vary, so the same price earns different amounts.

How much control do you want?

Using your own ISBN lets you choose your imprint and keep the same edition across platforms. Platform-supplied ISBNs are convenient but may tie that edition to the platform. Decide this before you publish, because changing it later means a new edition.

How much work will you accept?

Each platform has its own file checks, cover template and dashboard. Two platforms double that work. Start with one, get it right, then add another when your routine is stable. The sales tracking guide keeps the reports manageable.

Compare, then confirm

Use our platform rules page for the figures and the links to the official sources, and confirm in the platform before you publish. Our platform comparison article gives more background.

Step by step (about 10 minutes)

  1. List where your readers buy. Decide whether Amazon, bookshops, libraries or direct sales matter most.
  2. Compare earnings per copy. Enter your book details into the royalty calculator and read each platform's result.
  3. Decide on your ISBN. Choose a platform ISBN or your own, knowing the trade-off in control.
  4. Start with one platform. Publish on the one that fits best and learn its file checks.
  5. Add a second when ready. Add another platform once your files and routine are stable.
  6. Confirm on the platform. Check the final price and royalty in each platform's own screen.

Frequently asked questions

Can I publish the same book on two platforms?

Yes, if you hold the rights and use ISBNs that allow it. Read each platform's terms about exclusivity, especially for ebooks.

Is IngramSpark better than KDP?

Neither is better in every case. KDP is strong on Amazon, and IngramSpark offers wider distribution to bookshops and libraries.

Do I need my own ISBN?

Not always, but it gives you control over the imprint and the edition across platforms.

Do platforms charge setup fees?

Fees differ and can change. Check each platform's current pricing page before you start.

Sources

This guide is reviewed and updated at least every six months. Last updated 2026-10-16. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.

Figures in this guide are estimates for planning. Confirm prices, fees and rules on the platform's own screen before you publish. See the disclaimer.

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