Self-publishing has revolutionized how authors bring stories to life, offering creative control and faster timelines compared to traditional publishing. However, the sheer number of best self publishing companies can overwhelm writers. From print-on-demand giants like Amazon KDP to niche platforms like Blurb for visual books, each service caters to specific needs, whether you’re publishing eBooks, paperbacks, or specialty formats.
When deciding which self-publishing companies should you hire for book publishing services, the right choice hinges on your goals as an author:
- Budget: Some platforms charge upfront fees, while others take royalty cuts.
- Distribution: Global reach vs. limited retail access.
- Format: eBook-only platforms vs. those offering hardcovers, audiobooks, or photo books.
In this guide, we cut through the noise to help you find the top rated self publishing companies for 2025 for your publishing projects.
What is a Self-Publishing Company & How It Works?
Top self publishers provide authors with tools and services to independently publish their work, bypassing traditional publishers. These platforms handle technical tasks like formatting, distribution, and printing while letting authors retain complete creative control and rights. Top self publishers’ options include Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and Draft2Digital, each catering to different needs (eBooks, print, global reach).
How It Works
- Manuscript Submission: Upload your edited manuscript and cover design.
- Formatting: Use built-in tools or hire pros to format files for printing eBooks.
- Distribution: Choose channels (e.g., Amazon, bookstores, libraries).
- Printing: Print-on-demand (no upfront inventory) or bulk orders.
- Royalties: Earn a percentage of each sale, paid monthly/quarterly.
Key Features of Top Self Publishing Firms
- Control: Set your price, release date, and rights.
- Speed: Publish in days vs. traditional publishing’s years.
- Global Access: Reach readers worldwide via online retailers.
Pros vs. Cons of Self-Publishing Companies Should You Hire
| Pros | Cons |
| Higher royalties (up to 70-100%) | Upfront costs for editing/design |
| Faster time-to-market | Limited bookstore access (mostly online) |
| Full creative ownership | Requires self-marketing efforts |
Best self publishing companies democratize authorship, ideal for niche genres, series authors, and creators valuing speed and control.
How to Choose From Top Self Publishing Firms: 5 Critical Factors
1. Distribution Reach
- Global Retail Access: IngramSpark distributes to 40,000+ bookstores and libraries worldwide, making it ideal for authors seeking physical shelf space.
- Niche Markets: Barnes & Noble Press prioritizes placement in B&N stores, while Kobo Writing Life targets eBook readers outside Amazon’s ecosystem.
- Pro Tip: Maximize reach by using multiple platforms (e.g., Amazon KDP for eBooks + IngramSpark for print).
2. Costs & Royalties
- $0 Upfront Fees: Best self publishing companies like Amazon KDP, Draft2Digital, and Kobo Writing Life take no setup fees but deduct 10-35% royalties.
- Flat Fees: BookBaby charges $249+ for editing/design packages but lets you keep 100% royalties after recouping costs.
- Pro Tip: Calculate break-even points—e.g., with IngramSpark’s $49 title fee, you’ll need to sell ~25 paperbacks to profit.
3. Format Flexibility
- Print + eBook: IngramSpark and Lulu support ebooks, hardcovers and paperbacks .
- Specialty Formats: Blurb excels in photo books; Apple Books prioritizes visually rich eBooks.
4. Additional Services
- Editing/Design: BookBaby offers bundled services ($$$), while Reedsy’s Marketplace connects you to freelancers.
- Marketing Tools: Draft2Digital provides promo features like free eBook campaigns.
5. User Experience
- Beginner-Friendly: Amazon KDP and Draft2Digital have intuitive dashboards.
- Advanced Control: IngramSpark offers granular print specs but steeper learning curves.
Final Checklist Of Top Book Publishing Companies
- Test platforms with a short book or sample project.
- Read indie author reviews on forums like KBoards.
1. Amazon KDP
Amazon KDP dominates top rated self publishing companies for 2025 with $0 upfront costs, ideal for eBook-focused authors. It offers print-on-demand paperbacks, Kindle Unlimited perks, and royalties up to 70% but limits distribution primarily to Amazon.
- Pricing: Free
- Key Features: Easy interface, KU enrollment, global Amazon reach.
- Cons: Exclusivity required for KU, limited bookstore distribution.
- Royalties: 35-70% (eBooks), 60% (paperbacks).
2. IngramSpark
IngramSpark excels in global distribution (40k+ retailers) and print quality, perfect for authors targeting bookstores. Fees apply but waived via promotions.
- Pricing: 49/title(setup),49/title(setup),25/revision.
- Key Features: Hardcover options, library access, ISBN services.
- Cons: Steep learning curve, fees deter casual users.
- Royalties: 40-60% (varies by channel).
3. Barnes & Noble Press
B&N Press prioritizes physical bookstore placement in B&N stores, with no fees and simple tools for paperbacks/eBooks.
- Pricing: Free
- Key Features: In-store promotion options, B&N reader base.
- Cons: Limited non-B&N distribution, no hardcovers.
- Royalties: 55% (eBooks/paperbacks).
4. Draft2Digital
Draft2Digital simplifies eBook distribution to major retailers (Amazon, Apple, Kobo) with no upfront fees. It offers automated formatting and promotional tools but lacks print options. Ideal for authors prioritizing ease and broad eBook reach.
- Pricing: Free (10% royalty cut on sales)
- Key Features: Universal links, pre-order campaigns, reader magnets.
- Cons: No print support, lower royalties than direct publishing.
- Royalties: 60-80% (varies by retailer).
5. Lulu
Lulu excels in print-on-demand for niche formats (photo books, workbooks) and global distribution. Free to start, but premium services add costs.
- Pricing: $0 (premium upgrades available).
- Key Features: Hardcover/paperback options, global retail distribution.
- Cons: Complex interface, higher print costs.
- Royalties: 80-90% (direct sales), 40-60% (retail).
6. BookBaby
BookBaby offers full-service packages (editing, design, marketing) for a fee, ideal for hands-off authors. You keep 100% royalties after recouping costs.
- Pricing: $249+ (packages).
- Key Features: ISBN inclusion, global distribution, audiobook support.
- Cons: High upfront costs slower payouts.
- Royalties: 100% (after fees recovered).
7. Kobo Writing Life
Kobo Writing Life specializes in eBook distribution to global markets, including partnerships with OverDrive for libraries. It’s free to use and offers competitive royalties but lacks print options. Ideal for authors targeting non-Amazon readers.
- Pricing: Free
- Key Features: Library distribution, global reach (esp. Canada/Europe), EPUB support.
- Cons: No print books, smaller market share than Amazon.
- Royalties: 70-80% (varies by region).
8. PublishDrive
PublishDrive distributes eBooks to 400+ stores, including non-English markets like China and Japan. It charges a 10% royalty cut but offers advanced analytics and promo tools.
- Pricing: Free (10% royalty fee)
- Key Features: Wide international reach, subscription plans for bulk titles.
- Cons: Steeper fees for high-volume authors.
- Royalties: 60-70% (after platform cut).
9. Blurb
Blurb specializes in high-quality photo books, art books, and magazines, offering customizable templates and premium print options. Free to start, but costs rise with premium paper/cover upgrades. Limited retail distribution outside its store.
- Pricing: Free (premium upgrades cost extra).
- Key Features: Studio-grade printing, Adobe InDesign integration, global shipping.
- Cons: Higher per-unit costs, niche focus.
- Royalties: 50-70% (direct sales).
10. Apple Books
Apple Books focuses on visually rich eBooks for iOS users, with zero fees and high royalties. Integrates seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem but excludes print books and non-Apple users.
- Pricing: Free
- Key Features: EPUB3 support, iBooks integration, global Apple store reach.
- Cons: No print options, limited to Apple devices.
- Royalties: 70% (eBooks).
Here’s a comparison chart of the 10 best self publishing book companies, organized for quick reference:
| Company | Key Features | Price | Royalties |
| Amazon KDP | Global Amazon reach, Kindle Unlimited | Free | 35-70% (eBook), 60% (print) |
| IngramSpark | Global bookstore/library distro, hardcovers | $49/title setup | 40-60% |
| B&N Press | B&N in-store placement, ISBN-free publishing | Free | 55% |
| Draft2Digital | Universal eBook distro, promo tools | Free (10% royalty cut) | 60-80% |
| Lulu | Niche formats (photo books), global distro | Free (+ upgrades) | 80-90% (direct), 40-60% (retail) |
| BookBaby | Full-service packages, ISBN included | $249+ (packages) | 100% (after fees recovered) |
| Kobo Writing Life | Library access via OverDrive, global reach | Free | 70-80% |
| PublishDrive | 400+ int’l stores, analytics tools | Free (10% royalty cut) | 60-70% |
| Blurb | High-quality photo/art books, templates | Free (+ upgrades) | 50-70% |
| Apple Books | iOS/iBooks integration, EPUB3 support | Free | 70% |
Key Takeaways:
- Budget Pick: Amazon KDP, B&N Press, Kobo (free + no upfront fees).
- Global Reach: IngramSpark, PublishDrive.
- Specialty Formats: Blurb (photo books), Lulu (workbooks).
Red Flags to Avoid in Self-Publishing Companies
Not all companies claiming to be the best self publishing companies prioritize your interests. Watch for these red flags:
1. Upfront Fees Disguised as “Packages”
- Scam Alert: Companies charging $1,000+ for “basic publishing packages” (editing, design, ISBN) often overprice services you can get cheaper elsewhere.
- Legit Exception: BookBaby offers à la carte services but is transparent about costs.
2. Fake “Awards” or “Best Seller” Claims
- Tactic: “Pay $500 to enter our ‘Best New Author’ contest!” (Spoiler: Everyone “wins” and pays for a trophy.)
- Legit Awards: Look for Independent Publisher Book Awards or Reader’s Favorite (no submission fees).
3. Non-Negotiable Contracts
- Avoid: Companies claiming exclusive rights to your work or charging to terminate contracts.
- Safer Choice: EBook publishing platforms like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark let you unpublish anytime.
4. Vague Royalty Structures
- Red Flag: “Earn up to 80% royalties!” (Hidden fees reduce payouts.)
- Green Flag: Clear breakdowns like Draft2Digital’s 60-80% after retailer cuts.
Predatory Companies to Research:
- Author Solutions imprints (Archway, WestBow)
- Dorrance Publishing
Finding Your Perfect Self-Publishing Partner
Choosing the right self-publishing company hinges on your unique goals:
- Budget-first authors thrive with free platforms like Amazon KDP or Draft2Digital.
- Global storytellers need wide distribution (IngramSpark, PublishDrive).
- Niche creators (photo books, horror/SFF) benefit from specialists like Blurb or Arkham House Publishers.
Let Arkham House Publishers Support Your Vision
Don’t shoulder the burden of self-publication alone. Arkham House Publishers takes the stress away with:
✔ Tailored Guidance: Genre-specific expertise for horror, sci-fi, and fantasy authors.
✔ Boutique Marketing: Curated campaigns targeting your ideal readers.
✔ Transparent Royalties: Keep up to 70% while we handle distribution, design, and ISBNs.
Limited-Time Offer: Schedule a consultation to:
- Audit your manuscript’s market potential
- Build a hybrid publishing plan (print + eBook)
- Unlock exclusive distribution partnerships
“Don’t just publish—thrive. Let’s turn your manuscript into a legacy.”
Contact Arkham House Publishers Today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Self Publishing Book Companies
Q.1 Do I need multiple self-publishing companies?
Yes, if you want:
- Wider distribution: Use Amazon KDP for eBooks + IngramSpark for global print.
- Genre-specific reach: Pair Barnes & Noble Press (romance) with Kobo (literary fiction).
Q.2 Should I buy my own ISBN?
- Yes, If you want to own the ISBN ($125 via Bowker).
- No: Use free ISBNs from Amazon KDP or IngramSpark, but they’ll be listed as the publisher.
Q.3 Can I switch companies later?
Yes! Unpublish and reupload elsewhere. Note:
- Kindle Unlimited requires 90-day exclusivity.
- Print books may need new ISBNs.
Q.4 How do returns work?
- Print books: Generally best self publishing companies (e.g., IngramSpark) deduct returns from royalties.
- eBooks: No returns, but retailers like Amazon allow refunds (you keep royalties).
Q.5 How long until I see profits?
- eBooks: 1-2 months after release.
- Print: 3-6 months (bookstore distribution lag).
Pro Tip: Start with free ebook publishing platforms (Amazon KDP, Draft2Digital) to test the market before investing in pricier services.
