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Both Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and IngramSpark are popular platforms that serve as vital tools for self-publishing authors. Each has distinct strengths tailored to different goals, budgets, and distribution needs.
To help you make the most informed choice, let’s explore a comprehensive comparison of both platforms and discover how Atticus Publishing can maximize your book’s reach on both.
Distribution Reach
When it comes to reach, each platform shines in its own way. KDP’s ecosystem within Amazon is expansive, providing direct access to one of the largest global retail markets. However, many bookstores and libraries may be reluctant to stock books printed through Amazon, making KDP’s reach beyond Amazon somewhat limited.
IngramSpark, on the other hand, excels with its robust global distribution through the Ingram Book Group, which connects with bookstores, libraries, and educational institutions worldwide. For authors aspiring to have their books placed on physical bookstore shelves, IngramSpark offers unparalleled access.
Royalties and Pricing Control
KDP offers up to 70% royalties on eBooks, provided the book price falls between $2.99 and $9.99; otherwise, the rate is capped at 35%. For print editions, royalties are calculated based on printing costs, and books distributed beyond Amazon have a lower payout.
IngramSpark, while providing lower royalties after wholesale discounts, offers more control over pricing strategies and wholesale discount settings (usually recommended between 40-55% to appeal to bookstores). This flexibility is advantageous for authors seeking to tailor their pricing for retail environments, though earnings per sale may be slightly lower than with Amazon.
Print Quality and Options
KDP delivers reliable print quality, with options for trade paperbacks available in either glossy or matte covers. However, KDP does not offer hardcover editions or certain customizations, which may be limiting for authors seeking more variety. In contrast,
IngramSpark stands out with high-quality print options, including hardcover editions with dust jackets, a choice of premium paper types, and various trim sizes.
These premium options allow authors to present their books with a professional, collector-quality look that is well-suited for bookstore shelves and libraries.
ISBN and Imprint Control
When publishing through KDP, authors have the option of a free ISBN, but Amazon is listed as the publisher, which may detract from a more independent appearance.
IngramSpark, however, allows authors to use their own ISBN, giving them more control over the book’s imprint and allowing for greater professional flexibility.
Customer Support and Tools
KDP is known for its accessible and responsive customer support and user-friendly interface, making it a preferred choice for beginner self-publishers. On the other hand, while
IngramSpark’s customer support may be less rapid, but it offers valuable assistance for authors targeting broader retail distribution beyond Amazon.
Marketing and Ads
KDP’s Amazon Ads are a powerful tool for authors looking to boost visibility directly on Amazon’s platform, providing targeted advertising that helps increase discoverability.
IngramSpark supports paid catalog listings in the Ingram catalog, making your book visible to booksellers. While IngramSpark lacks direct ad tools, authors can enhance their marketing through third-party advertising platforms to reach their target audience more effectively.
Why Choose? Maximize Both KDP and IngramSpark
Why limit yourself to just one platform when you can leverage both? Atticus Publishing offers strategic support that empowers authors to maximize the advantages of both KDP and IngramSpark, creating a streamlined publishing experience that simplifies the workload and expands your reach.
Atticus Publishing’s Strategy to Maximize KDP and IngramSpark
To support self-published authors in achieving their goals, Atticus Publishing provides an integrated approach that ensures consistency, professionalism, and effective branding across both KDP and IngramSpark:
Seamless Dual-Platform Management
Atticus Publishing assists authors in setting up their books on KDP for Amazon-focused sales while expanding to bookstores and libraries through IngramSpark. This includes managing ISBNs, pricing strategies, and wholesale discounts for IngramSpark, making your book more appealing to retailers.
Our team also provides easy-to-follow, step-by-step guides to streamline the setup process on both platforms, saving authors time and reducing potential errors.
Professional Production & Print Quality
To present books with the best possible quality, Atticus Publishing offers professional services for cover design, formatting, and interior layout, ensuring all elements meet KDP and IngramSpark specifications.
Authors also gain access to expanded print options like hardcover editions, dust jackets, and premium paper through IngramSpark, helping them create a product that appeals to collectors and library patrons alike.
Marketing and Brand Positioning
Atticus Publishing maximizes Amazon visibility by optimizing KDP books with keyword research, category selection, and Amazon Ads support to reach readers actively browsing on Amazon. For broader retail appeal, we leverage IngramSpark’s extensive distribution channels and create compelling catalog listings with appropriate discounts to encourage bookstores to stock your book.
Additionally, Atticus Publishing’s social media, website, and email newsletters amplify book promotion, connecting authors with wider audiences and reinforcing our partnership.
Ongoing Author Support and Training
Atticus Publishing offers authors continued support through workshops and webinars on optimizing KDP and IngramSpark for the greatest reach. These sessions cover critical topics like royalty management, pricing strategies, and print quality selection.
Our personalized marketing strategy consultations further empower authors to build an effective author brand, use social media to their advantage, and create compelling profiles on both KDP and IngramSpark.
Unlock Your Publishing Potential with Atticus
By combining the unique advantages of KDP and IngramSpark, Atticus Publishing empowers authors to achieve greater reach, higher quality, and seamless distribution without compromising on their publishing goals.
This dual-platform approach not only maximizes distribution but builds authors' confidence, helping them navigate the publishing journey with the knowledge and tools they need for success.
Take the next step with Atticus Publishing and let us help you turn your book into a widely accessible, professionally crafted success across all platforms.
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