Once your eBook is written and ready for the world, it’s time to get it published. There are several platforms available where you can upload your eBook and start earning. Each platform has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the one that aligns with your goals. Here’s a look at some of the best platforms to publish and sell your eBook.
1. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Amazon KDP is by far the most popular platform for self-publishing eBooks. With millions of readers browsing Amazon daily, this platform offers huge visibility. You can publish your eBook in the Kindle format, set your price, and start earning royalties almost immediately. KDP also offers Kindle Unlimited, a subscription service that lets readers borrow eBooks for a monthly fee. The downside is that Amazon takes a percentage of your sales, but it’s well worth it for the exposure.
2. Apple Books
Apple Books is another excellent platform for eBook authors, especially if you want to reach an audience of iPhone and iPad users. The platform allows you to upload your eBook in the EPUB format and sell it directly to readers via the Apple Books store. Apple Books offers a 70% royalty rate on all sales, making it a profitable option for authors. Plus, it integrates well with the Apple ecosystem, meaning your eBook is easy to find and download for Apple device users.
3. Barnes & Noble Press
Barnes & Noble Press is a good choice if you’re looking to reach readers who prefer the Nook eReader. While it has a smaller audience compared to Amazon, it still offers a significant reach, particularly in the United States. B&N Press allows authors to upload their eBooks in EPUB format and provides a straightforward publishing process. The platform also offers a 65% royalty rate, which is competitive with Amazon and Apple Books.
4. Kobo Writing Life
Kobo is another popular eBook retailer, especially for readers in Canada, Europe, and other international markets. Kobo Writing Life allows you to publish your eBook in EPUB format and distribute it to Kobo’s global audience. The platform offers a 70% royalty rate for eBooks priced between $2.99 and $9.99, making it an attractive option for authors. Plus, Kobo Writing Life integrates with other distributors like IngramSpark, which can help you reach even more readers.
5. Google Play Books
Google Play Books is an excellent platform for authors who want to reach Android users. You can publish your eBook on the Google Play store and make it available to millions of Android users worldwide. Google Play Books allows you to set your price, and royalties are paid monthly. However, it’s important to note that Google Play Books has a slightly lower royalty rate compared to other platforms, taking a larger cut from each sale.
6. Smashwords
Smashwords is an eBook distribution platform that allows you to publish your eBook in multiple formats and distribute it to a wide range of online retailers, including Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and more. It’s a great way to ensure your eBook is available on a variety of platforms, and Smashwords also offers a 60% royalty rate. It’s a particularly good choice for authors looking to distribute their eBooks internationally.
7. IngramSpark
If you're planning to print physical copies of your eBook, IngramSpark is a great platform to consider. IngramSpark allows authors to publish both eBooks and print books and distribute them to major online retailers and bookstores. It’s a bit more complicated than other platforms, but it’s worth considering if you want to reach a wider audience, including those who prefer physical books.
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