KDP vs. IngramSpark: Which One Should You Choose?

Self-publishing has opened doors for countless authors to share their stories with the world, myself included. And for that, I am so very grateful that I can make my dream of being a published author come true.

With that said, two of the most popular platforms for self-publishing are Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and IngramSpark. While both offer ways to get your book into readers’ hands, they have distinct advantages and cater to different author goals. In this post, I’ll break down the key differences and help you decide which platform is right for you.

Understanding KDP and IngramSpark

KDP is Amazon’s self-publishing platform, giving authors direct access to the world’s largest online retailer. It offers a streamlined process for publishing ebooks and print-on-demand (POD) books. KDP is ideal for authors looking to reach a wide audience quickly and easily.

IngramSpark is a print-on-demand and ebook distribution service. While it doesn’t have the same direct-to-consumer reach as Amazon, it offers broader distribution to bookstores, libraries, and online retailers. IngramSpark is a good choice for authors seeking wider market penetration and traditional book distribution channels.

Key Differences

• Distribution: KDP primarily focuses on Amazon, while IngramSpark distributes your book to a vast network of retailers.
• Print Options: Both platforms offer print-on-demand, but IngramSpark typically provides more customization options for print books. (Example: I wanted an 8×8 book cover when I published ‘Please Don’t Swat‘; however, this size was unavailable through KDP at the time.)
• Royalties: KDP generally offers higher royalties, especially for ebooks, but IngramSpark’s royalty structure can vary depending on factors like distribution channels and print costs.
• ISBNs: Both KDP and IngramSpark will provide you with one free ISBN; however, if you plan to publish a hardback and a paperback version of your book then you will need to purchase an additional ISBN.
• Control: KDP offers more control over pricing and promotions, while IngramSpark gives you more flexibility in terms of distribution channels.

I’ve personally used both KDP and IngramSpark extensively. KDP’s interface is more user-friendly, but IngramSpark offers wider distribution. Unfortunately, IngramSpark’s customer support is lacking. If you’re new to IngramSpark, I highly recommend watching tutorials and reading blogs to familiarize yourself with the platform. Using their template for book dimensions is essential to avoid future issues.

Combining KDP and IngramSpark

It’s important to note that using both KDP and IngramSpark isn’t mutually exclusive. Many authors, including myself, choose to publish their ebooks on KDP to maximize exposure and then use IngramSpark for print distribution. This hybrid approach allows authors to leverage the strengths of both platforms.

Tips for Success

Regardless of the platform you choose, here are some essential tips for self-publishing success:

• Professional Editing and Proofreading: A well-edited book is crucial for credibility.
• Engaging Cover Design: A visually appealing cover can make a significant difference.
• Effective Book Description: Write a compelling book description to attract readers.
• Keyword Optimization: Use relevant keywords to improve discoverability.
• Price Competitively: Research your competition to determine a fair price.
• Build an Author Platform: Create a strong online presence to connect with readers.
• Utilize Marketing Tools: Take advantage of available marketing options to promote your book.

By carefully considering your goals and target audience, you can choose the right self-publishing platform to launch your book successfully. Remember, self-publishing is a journey, and it may take time to build a readership. Stay persistent, learn from your experiences, and continue to refine your approach.