Publishing Platform Comparison
Compare royalty rates, payout schedules, exclusivity rules, and global reach across 12+ platforms. Filter by format, sort by what matters to you.
Platform comparison table
Royalties, exclusivity, payout thresholds, and global reach — all in one place. Starred rows are recommended for most authors.
| Platform | Format | Royalty % | Exclusivity | Min Payout | Payout Freq | Reach | Direct Upload |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Draft2Digital | Ebook | ~80% of retailer net | No | $10 | Monthly | 60+ retailers | Via D2D |
| Amazon KDP | Ebook | 70%* / 35% | Optional (Select) | $100 | Monthly | 13 countries | Yes |
| Amazon KDP Select | Ebook | 70%* + KU | Required (90-day) | $100 | Monthly | 13 countries | Yes |
| Apple Books | Ebook | 70% | No | $150 | Monthly | 50+ countries | Yes |
| Kobo Writing Life | Ebook | 70% | No | $50 | Monthly | 190+ countries | Yes |
| Barnes & Noble Press | Ebook | 65% | No | $10 | Monthly | US primarily | Yes |
| Google Play Books | Ebook | 70% | No | Varies | Monthly | 75 countries | Yes |
| PublishDrive | Ebook | 100% (subscription) | No | $100 | Monthly | 400+ stores | Via PD |
| IngramSpark | Ebook Print | 40–45% | No | $0 | Quarterly | 39,000+ retailers | Yes |
| ACX (Audible/Amazon) | Audiobook | 25–40% | Optional | $10 | Monthly | Audible/Amazon | Yes |
| Findaway Voices (Libro.fm) | Audiobook | 80% of net | No | $10 | Monthly | 40+ retailers | Yes |
| KDP Print | 60% − printing | No | $100 | Monthly | Amazon global | Yes |
*70% royalty on Amazon KDP requires a list price of $2.99–$9.99 and may require KDP Select enrollment to access the 70% tier in certain non-US markets. ★ = recommended for most authors in that category.
Platform spotlights
A closer look at the top platforms every self-publishing author should know.
The largest ebook retailer globally. KDP Select enrollment unlocks Kindle Unlimited page reads and Countdown Deals, but requires 90-day exclusivity. Essential starting point for most authors.
The easiest wide-distribution aggregator. One upload reaches 60+ retailers including Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and dozens of smaller stores. $10 payout threshold is the lowest in the industry.
50+ country reach with no exclusivity requirements and a 70% royalty. Strong in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. Higher $150 payout threshold but consistent monthly payments.
Best international reach of any direct platform — 190+ countries. 70% royalty, no exclusivity, $50 payout threshold. Particularly strong in Canada, Europe, and Australia.
Leading wide audiobook distributor (now part of Libro.fm). 80% of net royalties paid to authors, distribution to 40+ audiobook retailers. No exclusivity required.
Frequently asked questions
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