Should I Self-publish on IngramSpark or Amazon KDP? A Detailed Comparison

If you’re wondering, should I self-publish on IngramSpark or Amazon? you’re not alone. Many authors ask this question, and the answer isn’t always simple. Both platforms offer unique advantages and challenges, making it crucial to understand their differences before making a decision.

After over a decade of experience helping authors self-publish without looking self-published, we’ve developed a strategy that utilizes both Amazon KDP and IngramSpark for maximum benefit. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each platform to help you decide which works best for your book.

Amazon KDP vs. IngramSpark: A Quick Comparison

Feature	Amazon KDP	IngramSpark
Ease of Use	Simple and user-friendly	More complex with a steeper learning curve
Customer Support	Quick response via chat, email, or call	Slow response, email-only support
Bookstore & Library Access	Limited—most bookstores don’t buy from Amazon	Books are listed in Ingram’s catalog, making them more accessible to bookstores and libraries
Hardcover Options	No dust jackets, limited customization	Allows dust jackets and better-quality printing
Print Costs	Lower printing costs	Higher printing and handling fees
Amazon Compatibility	Direct publishing ensures smooth sales and fulfillment	Amazon often lists IngramSpark books as “out of stock” or delays shipping
Distribution	Primarily Amazon and Kindle	Wider distribution to bookstores, libraries, and retailers
Royalties & Fees	No upfront fees, higher royalties	Setup and revision fees, lower royalties due to higher costs

Pros and Cons of Amazon KDP

Pros:

• User-Friendly Platform – Easy setup and navigation, even for first-time authors.
• Fast Customer Support – Responsive chat, email, and phone support.
• Largest Book Market – Most readers buy books on Amazon.
• Lower Print Costs – More affordable printing compared to IngramSpark.
• Reliable Shipping – Fast fulfillment, especially for Amazon Prime customers.

Cons:

• Limited Bookstore & Library Access – Most bookstores prefer to order from Ingram’s catalog.
• Hardcover Limitations – No dust jackets or cloth covers.

Pros and Cons of IngramSpark

Pros:

• Wider Distribution – Your book is available to bookstores, libraries, and retailers.
• Hardcover Flexibility – Offers dust jackets and higher print quality.
• Access to Bookshop.org – Bookshop.org competes with Amazon and supports local bookstores.

Cons:

• Higher Costs – More expensive printing and additional handling fees.
• Difficult Amazon Integration – Amazon may delay or increase prices for IngramSpark books.
• Poor Customer Support – No phone support, slow email responses.
• Complex Setup – Less user-friendly than KDP.

Our Recommendation: Use Both Platforms

Rather than choosing between Amazon KDP and IngramSpark, why not leverage both? Here’s how we suggest using them together:

• Publish Paperback & eBook on Amazon KDP – This ensures smooth sales, fast shipping, and lower printing costs.
• Publish Hardcover on IngramSpark – For a professional dust-jacketed hardcover edition.
• Use IngramSpark for Wide Distribution – If you want bookstore and library access.

By strategically using both platforms, you can maximize your book’s reach while avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you prioritize ease of use, bookstore access, or hardcover options, this approach gives you the best of both worlds.

So, should you self-publish on IngramSpark or Amazon? The best answer is: why not both?