IngramSpark vs KDP Print: which should I use for print?
- KDP Print is Amazon's free print-on-demand for its own store.
- IngramSpark reaches the broader bookstore and library trade.
- KDP Print offers the best margins on Amazon print.
- IngramSpark enables returnability and trade distribution.
- Using both gives the widest print coverage.
KDP Print and IngramSpark serve different print needs. KDP Print is free, simple, and gives the best royalties for print sold on Amazon — but it does not reach the broader trade well. IngramSpark distributes print widely to bookstores, libraries, and retailers worldwide, with trade discount and returnability options that make stores willing to stock you (though it has setup fees and a more complex interface). Many authors use both: KDP Print for Amazon, IngramSpark for everywhere else — getting the best Amazon margins plus full trade reach.
Chapter i·Why it matters
Print distribution choice determines where your paperback is available and your margins, and these two platforms cover different channels — Amazon versus the broader trade. Understanding that KDP Print excels for Amazon while IngramSpark reaches bookstores and libraries (and that using both is common) helps authors set up print distribution for full coverage rather than missing channels. It is a practical decision that significantly affects a print book's reach and earnings.
Chapter ii·What to include
- KDP Print for free, simple Amazon print.
- IngramSpark for wide trade distribution.
- KDP Print's Amazon margins.
- IngramSpark's returnability and reach.
- Using both for full coverage.
- A setup matched to your goals.
Chapter iii·Example
An author wants both strong Amazon print sales and bookstore availability. She publishes her paperback through KDP Print for Amazon (best margins, free) and through IngramSpark for the wider trade — bookstores and libraries that can order on standard terms. Using both gives her the best Amazon economics plus full trade reach.
WriteLoom keeps your print editions and channels organized, so using KDP Print and IngramSpark together stays simple.
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