TL;DR The top self-publishing companies in 2026 include Amazon KDP, Barnes & Noble Press, Kobo, Apple Books, IngramSpark, Draft2Digital, and PublishDrive—each serving a different purpose. Most successful authors use a combination: KDP for U.S. dominance, IngramSpark for print quality and wide distribution, and an aggregator like Draft2Digital for global reach. selfpublishing.com provides the coaching and education to tie it all together.
What Are Self-Publishing Companies?
Self-publishing companies are platforms and services that help independent authors write, produce, distribute, and sell their books, without giving up rights or royalties to a traditional publisher.
Unlike traditional publishers, self-publishing companies give authors full creative control. The type of company you choose determines how much of the process you handle yourself and how much they handle for you.
There are four main types:
| Type | Purpose | Best for… |
|---|---|---|
| Aggregator | Distributes your book to 30+ retail channels | Authors who want hands-off global distribution |
| Retailer | Sells your book through their own storefront | Authors who want to sell directly on major platforms |
| Educator | Teaches you how to publish successfully | Authors who want a proven step-by-step process |
| Services Provider | Offers editing, cover design, formatting, etc. | Authors who need professional production support |
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: The Core Difference
Self-publishing gives you 100% of the creative decisions, faster time to market, and higher royalty rates in exchange for managing the publishing process yourself (or hiring support).
Traditional publishing companies select which books to take on, buy the rights to your manuscript, handle production, and keep a large percentage of your royalties. The process from manuscript to shelf typically takes 18–24 months.
With self-publishing vs. traditional publishing, the tradeoffs are clear:
- You keep your rights
- You set your pricing
- You earn 35%–90% royalties (vs. 10–15% traditionally)
- You can publish in weeks, not years
- You take on more responsibility for quality, marketing, and distribution
That’s exactly why choosing the right combination of self-publishing companies matters, and why learning how to self-publish a book the right way before you start is worth the investment.
Want to skip the article and go straight to the assessment that will show you which self-publishing company is right for you?
How We Evaluated the Top Self-Publishing Companies
Not every platform deserves your time. Here’s the criteria used to rank these companies:
- Publishing Volume—Proven track record of high-volume book sales and distribution
- Reputation—Vetted against the Alliance of Independent Authors’ approved list (and absent from their blacklist)
- Author Reliability—Trustworthy communication, quality control, and author support
- Resources—Tools, guides, and materials to help authors succeed
- Affordability—Reasonable costs to publish that don’t drain your budget before you earn a dollar
- Community & Reach—Large subscriber base and distribution footprint
⚠️ Vanity publisher warning: Many companies call themselves “self-publishing companies” but are actually vanity publishers—they charge excessive fees and deliver poor results. Always research before you sign anything.
The 11 Best Self-Publishing Companies for Authors in 2026
1. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Pricing: Free to upload
Royalties: 70% on eBooks priced $2.99–$9.99 | 35% below $2.99 | 60% on print
Amazon KDP is the dominant force in self-publishing. It controls approximately 80% of the U.S. eBook market and 40% of all self-published digital books in America. For any author publishing in English, KDP is non-negotiable.
What makes KDP essential:
- Instant access to millions of active readers
- Competitive royalty rates for digital and print
- Free to upload eBooks and paperbacks
- Print-on-demand eliminates upfront inventory costs
- Optional KDP Select program for additional promotional tools
KDP Select: The Exclusivity Tradeoff
KDP Select enrolls your book for 90-day exclusive windows on Amazon. During that time, your book cannot be sold on other platforms. In return, you gain access to Kindle Unlimited royalties, Kindle Owners Lending Library, and promotional tools like Countdown Deals.
For first-time authors, 90 days of KDP Select can build strong early momentum. After that, going wide—distributing to other platforms—typically increases long-term revenue.
Learn more: Amazon KDP: The Complete Author’s Guide
2. Barnes & Noble Press
Pricing: Free to upload
Royalties: 70% on eBooks priced above $0.99
Barnes & Noble Press (formerly Nook Press) is the second-largest book retailer in the U.S. and an important platform for authors who want to diversify beyond Amazon.
Key advantages:
- 70% royalties on most eBooks
- Access to B&N online and physical bookstore distribution
- Publishing partnerships with Reedsy (editorial) and others
- Available in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Spain, and more
Your book goes live within 72 hours of uploading. The platform is free, straightforward, and gives authors access to B&N’s loyal print-book customer base—a demographic that still buys physical books in significant volume.
3. Kobo Writing Life
Pricing: Free to upload
Royalties: 70% on eBooks priced $2.99+ | 45% on books under $2.99
Kobo is the self-publishing platform of choice for authors targeting international markets, particularly Canada, where Kobo commands approximately 25% of all eBook sales. See our full Kobo Writing Life review for an in-depth breakdown.
Kobo is a subsidiary of Rakuten (the world’s 14th largest internet company) and operates in 16+ countries outside the U.S., with over 5 million titles available in 77 languages.
Why Kobo matters:
- Essential for Canadian and international readership
- Real-time sales analytics through the Kobo Writing Life dashboard
- Open platform supporting EPUB, EPUB3, and PDF
- No exclusivity requirements—publish alongside Amazon
If your book has any global appeal, Kobo should be in your distribution stack.
4. Apple Books
Pricing: Free to upload
Royalties: 70% flat on all eBooks, regardless of price
Apple Books is the second-largest online eBook retailer, targeting the 1.8 billion+ active Apple device users worldwide. It’s particularly powerful for business, personal development, and lifestyle books—categories popular with Mac and iPhone users. See our full Apple Books review for details.
What to know before publishing on Apple Books:
- You must be a Mac user to publish directly (PC users should use an aggregator like Draft2Digital or PublishDrive)
- Royalty rate is a flat 70%—no pricing minimums
- ePub format required
- No exclusive contracts—full publishing freedom
- Available in select countries only
Apple Books is often overlooked by new authors, and that’s a costly mistake. The platform’s direct pipeline to the Apple ecosystem gives you access to a highly engaged, high-income reader base.
5. selfpublishing.com
Type: Educator + Author Services
Programs: Become a Bestseller, Author Advantage Accelerator, Author Accelerator Elite, Ghostwriting
selfpublishing.com is the #1 resource for self-publishing a book and the only company on this list that doesn’t just give you a platform to upload to, but actually teaches you how to publish a book that sells.
Founded by Chandler Bolt (7x bestselling author, Forbes 30 Under 30), selfpublishing.com has helped over 8,000 authors publish their books since 2014. The company publishes an average of 3 books per day across a community of 250,000+ authors in 91+ countries.
What we offer:
- 1:1 coaching with a certified publishing coach
- Book editing (up to 5 rounds), cover design, and formatting via our services team
- Done-for-you publishing for authors who want professional support
- Daily group coaching calls and open office hours
- Advanced programs for authors ready to scale to 10,000+ copies sold
Authors like Mike Acker (Speak with No Fear, 40,000+ copies sold) and Bill Soroka (hundreds of thousands in book royalties) built their platforms using our proven framework. Read our reviews and case studies to see what’s possible.
The difference between authors who succeed and those who don’t is rarely talent, it’s having a proven process and accountability. That’s what selfpublishing.com provides.
Ready to publish your book? Explore our programs here.
6. Reedsy
Pricing: 20% commission on freelancer collaborations
Services: Editing, interior design, cover design, illustrations, ghostwriting, marketing
Reedsy is a curated marketplace that connects authors with vetted publishing professionals. Unlike generic freelance platforms, every Reedsy professional is screened for quality, which significantly reduces the risk of working with underqualified editors or designers.
What Reedsy offers:
- Editorial assessments, developmental editing, copy editing, proofreading
- Cover design, interior formatting, and illustrations
- Book marketing strategy and launch support
- Free manuscript formatting software and book outline tools
Reedsy is not a distributor or aggregator. It’s a services marketplace—best used alongside KDP or an aggregator for distribution.
7. Lulu
Pricing: Free to sign up | Pay for printing/shipping
Royalties: 80% on print | 90% on eBooks
Lulu is one of the longest-running self-publishing platforms, having produced over 2 million books since 2009. It’s particularly strong for print-on-demand and has its own bookstore through which authors can sell directly.
Key features:
- High royalty rates: 80% (print) and 90% (eBooks)
- Free eBook conversion, publishing, and distribution
- Distribution to Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books via ISBN
- Author services: editing, cover design, formatting, and promotion
- Lulu’s own online bookstore for direct sales
Lulu is a strong option for authors who want a one-stop shop and don’t want to manage multiple platform accounts.
8. IngramSpark
Pricing: Free to sign up | Fees for printing, shipping, and revisions after 60 days
Distribution: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Indigo, Foyles, Waterstones, and 39,000+ libraries and retailers worldwide
IngramSpark is the gold standard for wide print distribution. As part of the Ingram Group—the world’s largest book distribution network—IngramSpark connects your book to over 39,000 libraries, bookstores, online retailers, and academic institutions globally.
Why IngramSpark stands out:
- Superior print quality: hardcovers, premium paperbacks, and specialty formats
- Distribution to every major online retailer and thousands of physical bookstores
- Essential for authors who want their print book on physical bookstore shelves
- Works in combination with KDP, not instead of it
- Requires an ISBN for distribution orders
IngramSpark vs. KDP: Use Both
| Feature | KDP | IngramSpark |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Free | Free to sign up |
| Print quality | Standard | Superior |
| Hardcover options | Limited | Yes |
| Distribution reach | Amazon-first | 39,000+ global outlets |
| Best for | U.S. digital & POD | Wide print distribution |
Recommendation: Start with KDP for eBooks and standard print. Add IngramSpark for hardcovers, bookstore distribution, and international print reach. These platforms are designed to complement each other.
9. PublishDrive
Pricing: Starting at $16.99/month (keep 100% of royalties) | Or flat 10% per sale
Distribution: Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Everand, Bookmate, and 400+ stores worldwide
PublishDrive is a fast-growing aggregator built for authors who want maximum global distribution with minimal platform management. It’s an Apple-approved aggregator and Google partner—one of the most connected distribution networks available.
What sets PublishDrive apart:
- Monthly subscription model: keep 100% of all sales
- 400+ distribution stores across 100+ countries
- 24/7 support team
- Dashboard available in multiple languages
- Distributes directly to Amazon, Apple Books, Kobo, B&N, and Google Books
For high-volume authors publishing multiple titles, the subscription model becomes significantly more cost-effective than per-title royalty splits.
10. Draft2Digital (D2D)
Pricing: 10% of retail price per sale
Distribution: Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, OverDrive, Everand, Bibliotheca, and more
Draft2Digital is the most author-friendly aggregator on the market. After acquiring Smashwords, it became the largest independent aggregator for self-published books. Read the full Smashwords vs. Draft2Digital comparison to see why D2D won.
What makes D2D the top aggregator:
- Free to use—no upfront costs or subscription fees
- Distributes to Amazon (most aggregators don’t)
- Handles book formatting automatically at no charge
- Universal Book Links give readers one link to buy from any retailer
- Live within 24 hours of uploading
Authors keep approximately 60% of royalties (D2D takes 10%, retailers keep 30%). For authors who want wide distribution without the complexity of managing each platform separately, Draft2Digital is the top recommendation.
11. StreetLib
Pricing: 10% of retail price per eBook sale
Distribution: Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Everand, OverDrive, Indigo, Tolino, and more
StreetLib is an Italian-based distributor with one of the strongest international footprints of any aggregator—particularly across Europe, Latin America, and Africa. In 2019 alone, they launched digital portals across 20 countries on 6 continents. Read the full StreetLib review for a complete breakdown.
Why StreetLib is worth adding:
- Dashboard available in Italian, Hindi, English, and Spanish
- Deep penetration into European and African markets underserved by U.S.-centric aggregators
- Distributes to all major international retailers
- 10% fee with 60% going to the author
If your book has international appeal—especially in non-English-speaking markets—StreetLib is a strategic addition to your distribution stack.
Self-Publishing Companies at a Glance
| Company | Type | Best For | Royalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon KDP | Retailer | U.S. eBook & print dominance | 70% eBook / 60% print |
| Barnes & Noble Press | Retailer | U.S. readers beyond Amazon | 70% eBook |
| Kobo Writing Life | Retailer | Canadian & international reach | 70% eBook ($2.99+) |
| Apple Books | Retailer | Mac/iOS user base | 70% flat |
| selfpublishing.com | Educator + Services | Proven publishing process & coaching | N/A |
| Reedsy | Services | Vetted freelance professionals | N/A |
| Lulu | Mix | Print-on-demand + own bookstore | 80% print / 90% eBook |
| IngramSpark | Aggregator | Wide print distribution | Varies |
| PublishDrive | Aggregator | Global distribution (subscription) | 100% (sub) / 90% (per sale) |
| Draft2Digital | Aggregator | Hands-off wide distribution | ~60% |
| StreetLib | Aggregator | European & African markets | ~60% |
Other Publishing Options Worth Knowing
Audiobook Publishing Companies
Audiobooks are one of the fastest-growing segments in publishing. The two primary platforms are:
- ACX—Amazon’s audiobook production platform, publishing directly to Audible
- Findaway Voices—Distributes audiobooks wide to Spotify, Apple, libraries, and more
As audiobooks become more popular year over year, it’s important to understand how to publish an eBook and an audiobook version of your work to maximize your revenue streams.
Traditional Publishing (The Big 5)
The traditional publishing industry is dominated by five companies—known as The Big 5. Each has a dedicated review on selfpublishing.com so you can make an informed decision:
- Penguin Random House—Largest publisher in the world; 15,000+ titles annually under 250+ imprints
- HarperCollins—Part of NewsCorp; multiple imprints across genres
- Simon & Schuster—2,000+ titles annually across 35 imprints
- Hachette—Third-largest trade publisher globally
- Macmillan Publishers—Offices in 41 countries; strong in education and trade
These companies are exceptionally difficult to break into without an existing platform, an agent, and years of persistence. And once you’re in, you surrender your rights, your royalties, and your creative control.
Compare your options: Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
The Pros and Cons of Traditional Publishing
Pros
- Prestige—Major publishers validate your work and open certain doors
- Advance payment—A lump sum upfront (though it must be paid back through book sales)
- Connections—Access to bookstore relationships, PR contacts, and industry networks
- Done-for-you production—Editing, design, and distribution managed by the publisher
Cons
- Loss of creative control—The publisher decides your cover, title, and edits
- Slow process—18–24 months from deal to shelf is common; how long it takes to write a book is on top of that
- Low royalties—Typically 10–15% on print, less on eBooks
- Lack of diversity—79% of the traditional publishing industry is white; the barriers for underrepresented authors are well-documented
- High failure rate—The majority of authors who land a deal don’t earn back their advance
The reality: traditional publishing benefits a narrow segment of authors. For most people, especially nonfiction authors, business owners, coaches, and experts, self-publishing delivers faster results, higher income, and more control. You can also explore how to publish a business book specifically for that audience.
How to Use Self-Publishing Companies Together (The Smart Stack)
The authors who earn the most from their books don’t pick one platform—they build a publishing stack.
Each company serves a different function. The right combination multiplies your reach, your royalties, and your long-term income.
The recommended publishing stack for most authors:
- selfpublishing.com—Get the coaching, education, and professional services to publish a high-quality book that actually sells
- Amazon KDP—Launch your eBook and paperback; start with 90 days of KDP Select to build early momentum
- IngramSpark—Add hardcover and wide print distribution to bookstores, libraries, and schools
- Draft2Digital or PublishDrive—Distribute your eBook wide to Apple Books, Kobo, B&N, Google Play, and beyond
- Kobo Writing Life—Target the Canadian and international market directly
- StreetLib—Expand into European and African markets
- Findaway Voices—Publish your audiobook wide to Spotify, libraries, and 45+ platforms
Start here: How to Become an Author—the complete guide to going from blank page to published.
Common Mistakes Authors Make When Choosing a Self-Publishing Company
Mistake 1: Going exclusive too long
KDP Select is great for the first 90 days. After that, staying exclusive to Amazon limits your income ceiling. Kindle Unlimited has its place, but wide distribution wins long-term.
Mistake 2: Trusting vanity publishers
If a company charges thousands upfront, promises bestseller status, and delivers vague results—that’s a vanity publisher. Cross-reference every company with the Alliance of Independent Authors watchdog list before signing anything.
Mistake 3: Skipping professional editing
The platform you choose matters less than the quality of your book. A poorly edited book with bad reviews will fail on any platform. Invest in copy editing and a full editorial review before you publish.
Mistake 4: Choosing only one platform
The top self-publishing companies are designed to complement each other. Using only Amazon is like selling from one store in one city.
Mistake 5: Publishing without a strategy
The difference between a book that sells 50 copies and one that sells 5,000 isn’t the writing, it’s the book marketing strategy and launch plan. Learn how to get Amazon book reviews and build a successful book launch guide before you hit publish.
Mistake 6: Not knowing your costs upfront
Before you commit, understand the cost to publish a book so you can budget properly and avoid overpaying for services you don’t need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best self-publishing company for beginners?
Amazon KDP is the best starting point for most beginners—it’s free, widely used, and controls the largest share of the market. Pair it with structured guidance from selfpublishing.com and a book outline to avoid the mistakes that stall most first-time authors.
How much does it cost to self-publish a book?
The cost to self-publish ranges from $0 (uploading to KDP yourself) to $5,000+ (professional editing, cover design, formatting, and coaching). Most authors spend $500–$2,000 to produce a professionally published book.
What royalties do self-publishing companies pay?
Royalties vary by company and format:
- Amazon KDP eBooks: 35%–70%
- KDP print: 60%
- Kobo / Apple Books: 70%
- Draft2Digital: ~60%
- IngramSpark: 40%–45%
- Lulu: 80% (print) / 90% (eBooks)
Self-published authors consistently earn 4–6x more per book sold than traditionally published authors. See our author salary guide for realistic income benchmarks.
Should I publish exclusively on Amazon?
For the first 90 days, KDP Select exclusivity can boost visibility. After that, distributing wide— through IngramSpark, Draft2Digital, and Kobo—typically increases total revenue. Most established self-published authors recommend going wide after the initial launch window. Use our book royalties calculator to model the difference.
What is a vanity publisher?
A vanity publisher charges authors upfront fees (often $5,000–$25,000+) for services that legitimate self-publishing platforms provide for free or far less. They often promise bestseller results and deliver poor-quality work. Always research companies using the Alliance of Independent Authors watchdog list before signing anything.
Do I need an ISBN to self-publish?
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is required for distribution through IngramSpark and most brick-and-mortar bookstores. Amazon KDP provides a free ASIN for eBooks but allows you to use your own ISBN for print books. Having your own ISBN gives you more control over your book’s metadata and publisher listing.
How do I choose the right self-publishing company?
The right company depends on your goals:
- If you want to learn the process: selfpublishing.com
- If you want maximum U.S. reach: Amazon KDP
- If you want print in bookstores: IngramSpark
- If you want global digital distribution: Draft2Digital or PublishDrive
- If you need professional services: Reedsy or selfpublishing.com services
- If you want a pen name strategy: Learn how pen names work in self-publishing
Ready to Publish Your Book?
The self-publishing landscape in 2026 is the best it’s ever been for independent authors. The platforms are better, the royalties are higher, and the readers are there.
What separates authors who publish successfully from those who stall is not the platform — it’s the process.
selfpublishing.com has helped 8,000+ authors go from blank page to published book, with a proven framework that covers every step: writing, editing, production, launch, and book marketing.
Your book is closer than you think.
