Discover the best self-publishing companies of 2025 that empower authors with creative control, transparent royalties, and global reach. Explore trusted platforms like KDP, Reedsy, BookBaby, and Writers of the West, plus expert tips on choosing the right path for your publishing goals.
Introduction
Here’s a weird truth nobody tells you:
Finishing your book? That’s the easy part.
The real headache comes after, when you’re staring at the blinking cursor in the search bar, typing “how to self-publish” and realising you’ve just unlocked a maze with no map. Suddenly, you’re knee-deep in acronyms. KDP. POD. ISBN. D2D. And every so-called expert swears their path is the only one worth following.
One friend says Amazon or bust. Another says go wide. Someone else casually throws in Reedsy like you’re supposed to know if that’s a platform or a planet.
That’s why this list isn’t just a rundown of names. It’s a curated, brutally honest guide to the best self publishing companies in 2025, ranked by what actually matters: reach, royalties, support, and whether or not they waste your time.
By the end of this, you’ll know exactly where to publish, who to trust, and what to skip.
Quick Primer: What “Self-Publishing Companies” Actually Do
Before you pick a platform, you need to know what you’re really choosing.
Because not all self-publishing companies are the same. In fact, they fall into three very different camps, each with its own purpose, perks, and pitfalls.
1. Retailers or Platforms
Think Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), Barnes & Noble Press, or Kobo Writing Life.
These are the places where your book actually lives and sells. You upload your files, set your price, and the retailer lists your book in its store. Some let you publish both ebooks and paperbacks; others focus on one format. When you go direct, you earn higher royalties but have to manage each platform yourself.
2. Aggregators or Distributors
This group includes companies like Draft2Digital, IngramSpark, and PublishDrive. They’re the middlemen who help you go wide.
Instead of uploading to ten different retailers, you upload once to an aggregator, and they handle the rest. It’s the easiest way to get into stores like Apple Books, Kobo, libraries, and international retailers. The trade-off is that they take a small cut of your royalties for the convenience.
3. Assisted Service Companies and Marketplaces
If you want more of a done-for-you or build-your-own-team experience, this is where you’ll look.
Companies like BookBaby, Lulu, Blurb, and Reedsy offer packages or curated professionals who can edit, design, and publish your book. These are often referred to as indie author services, a blend of professional help without giving up control. It’s ideal if you’d rather focus on writing while someone else handles the production puzzle.
Why Every “Best Of” List Looks Different
When you see different rankings online, it’s not because someone’s wrong, it’s because they’re measuring different things.
Some lists focus only on ebooks. Others rate print-on-demand options. Some weigh royalties, while others care more about customer support. That’s why the smart move is to compare across a few trusted criteria such as scope, distribution reach, transparency, and fees.
Before you hand over your manuscript or your money, do a quick credibility check. Use resources like ALLi’s Watchdog ratings to make sure any company you’re considering has a solid reputation and fair contract terms.
At-a-Glance Criteria (How This List Was Curated)
Every author’s journey is different, but a fair list needs a clear compass. This one was built around what actually matters to indie authors who want to publish smart, not just fast.
Here’s what guided every pick:
1. Distribution Muscle
A platform is only as good as the doors it opens. The best ones give you access to major retailers, library systems, and international markets without burying you in fine print. Reaching readers beyond Amazon is not just a bonus anymore. It’s a necessity.
2. Royalties and Fees
You deserve to understand exactly how much you earn. Transparency is key. The companies here have clear royalty structures, easy-to-find fee breakdowns, and no hidden costs waiting to trip you up. No long-term lock-ins, no confusing math, and no fine print surprises.
3. Tools and Support
Whether you’re publishing your first book or your tenth, you need tools that make life easier. That means clean formatting options, print and ebook capabilities, ISBN flexibility, and reliable customer service when something goes wrong. A fast, human response can save your launch.
4. Reputation
The self-publishing world moves fast, and reputations can change just as quickly. That’s why this list takes into account recent expert roundups, independent author feedback, and watchdog ratings from groups like ALLi. A company might have slick marketing, but real credibility comes from how it treats authors after you’ve signed up.
This is the foundation. These are the standards each company had to meet to earn a place on the 2025 list.
The Top 10 (Curated for 2025)
Let’s get into the part you came for. These are the best self publishing companies to know in 2025, carefully grouped so you can compare like with like. Whether you’re going direct, distributing wide, or hiring help, you’ll find your best fit here.
Retailer or Platform (Publish Direct When You Can)
- Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Still the cornerstone of digital publishing. KDP lets you publish ebooks, paperbacks, and even hardcovers straight to Amazon’s store. You can choose to stay wide or go exclusive through Kindle Unlimited. Either way, it’s your foundation. If you want to reach other markets later, simply add a wide distributor. - Barnes & Noble Press
Perfect for authors who want visibility within the B&N ecosystem. The print quality is solid, the dashboard is simple, and the royalty structure is fair. It’s especially good for U.S.-based authors focusing on paperback distribution and in-store placement opportunities. - Kobo Writing Life
A strong choice for authors with international audiences, especially in Canada and Europe. Kobo’s built-in promotions and partnership with OverDrive make it an excellent bridge into library systems. Pairing Kobo direct with an aggregator widens your global reach even more.
Aggregators or Distributors (Go Wide Efficiently)
- Draft2Digital (D2D)
The leading wide-distribution hub after merging with Smashwords. It’s simple, fast, and built for authors who want automation without losing control. D2D now supports print in beta, includes clean formatting tools, and handles metadata beautifully. - IngramSpark
Known for unmatched print distribution. If you want your book available to bookstores and libraries worldwide, this is where you go. The setup can feel technical at first, but once you’re in, you’re in professional territory. Keep an eye on promo periods when they waive fees. - PublishDrive
A global distributor with flexible pricing. You can pay per sale or opt for a monthly subscription that removes commission cuts. PublishDrive is especially useful for authors targeting international and niche ebook markets that other platforms overlook.
Assisted Service Companies and Marketplaces (Done-for-You or Pick-Your-Team)
- BookBaby
A full-service provider that bundles editing, cover design, ISBNs, print-on-demand, and distribution. It’s a straightforward, one-bill solution for first-time authors who want everything handled under one roof. You pay more upfront, but you save time and headaches. - Lulu
Offers a flexible mix of print-on-demand, distribution, and direct-to-reader storefronts. Great for workbooks, academic titles, and niche formats that don’t fit Amazon’s mould. The interface is intuitive, and you keep full control of your files and pricing. - Blurb
Ideal for visual creators. Blurb shines with high-quality photo, art, and design-heavy books. You can sell directly, distribute to major retailers, or print limited runs for galleries or events. The premium print quality justifies the cost for creatives who want their books to feel special. - Reedsy Marketplace
Not a publisher, but a professional ecosystem where you can hire vetted editors, designers, and marketers. You only pay for what you need, and you keep full control over your publishing process. Many authors use Reedsy to build their dream team before moving to a platform or distributor.
Also Consider: Writers of the West
A boutique agency offering full-service guidance for editorial, production, and launch support. Ideal for authors who want a concierge-style experience before distributing through KDP, IngramSpark, or D2D. Evaluate it like any assisted service: check transparency, reviews, and ALLi’s ratings before you commit.
How to Choose the Right Path (Decision Mini-Framework)
You’ve seen the options, but now comes the big question: which one is right for you?
The truth is, there’s no single “best” choice. There’s only what fits your goals, your format, and how much control you want to keep.
Here’s a simple way to figure it out.
1. Start with Your Goal and Format
Ask yourself what kind of book you’re publishing.
Is it an ebook-only release that lives on digital shelves, or a print-heavy project like a workbook or photo book? If you’re focused on visual or print formats, platforms like Lulu, Blurb, or IngramSpark will give you the flexibility and quality you need. For ebook-first authors, KDP, Draft2Digital, and Kobo are usually the best entry points.
2. Define Your Reach
Are you planning to focus on Amazon’s ecosystem or go wide?
If you want the biggest audience possible, start direct with KDP for Amazon sales, then expand through Draft2Digital or IngramSpark to reach other retailers and libraries. Going wide means your book has a chance to find readers on every continent, not just one platform.
3. Know Your Budget and Level of Control
Some authors want to handle everything themselves. Others want someone to manage the process so they can focus on writing.
If you prefer full creative control, use marketplaces like Reedsy to hire editors, designers, and marketers individually. If you want convenience, companies like BookBaby or Lulu offer bundled packages where everything’s handled for you. These full-service setups fall under indie author services, where you get professional help while staying independent.
4. Check Reputation and Contracts
Before you sign up anywhere, slow down and read the fine print. Make sure you keep your rights, avoid long-term exclusivity, and understand how royalties work. A few hours of research can save you months of frustration later.
Use watchdog sites and independent author groups to confirm that the company delivers what it promises.
Choosing the right path isn’t about luck. It’s about matching your goals with the right tools and the right level of support.
Costs, Royalties, and Rights (What to Expect)
Money, control, and ownership.
Those three things will decide whether your publishing experience feels empowering or painful. Let’s break down what to expect so you can make smart choices without nasty surprises later.
1. Royalties
Every platform pays differently.
Retailers like KDP, Kobo, and B&N Press usually pay between 35% and 70% of your book’s list price, depending on pricing, file size, and region. Aggregators like Draft2Digital or PublishDrive take a small cut in exchange for handling multiple retailers for you. It’s a fair trade if you value convenience and global reach.
Always check whether your royalties are calculated on list price or net price. That small detail can change your earnings more than you think.
2. Print Economics
Printing costs can sneak up on you if you’re not careful.
Print-on-demand (POD) services charge per unit printed, based on page count, ink type, and trim size. The higher your printing cost, the higher you’ll need to set your retail price to make a profit.
Amazon’s POD works well if you’re focused on speed and ease of access, but if your goal is to get your book into bookstores and libraries, IngramSpark is the stronger option. It’s built for professional distribution and bookstore ordering systems.
3. ISBN and Ownership
Your ISBN is your publishing fingerprint. Whoever owns it is listed as the publisher of record.
If you buy your own ISBN, you keep that control. If you let a service assign one to you, they’ll be listed as the publisher instead. There’s nothing wrong with that, but if you plan to build a long-term author brand or small press, it’s better to own your identifiers from day one.
And whatever you do, always retain full rights to your intellectual property. Avoid contracts that give companies ongoing control over your work, even after you leave.
4. Validate Everything
Before you spend or sign, double-check details with independent sources like the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi). Their Watchdog ratings and author community are gold mines for real-world feedback on fees, royalties, and rights protection.
Publishing smart isn’t about chasing the highest royalty percentage. It’s about understanding what you’re trading for reach, convenience, or help, and making that trade on your own terms.
Step-by-Step: A Sane 2025 Launch Stack
If you’ve ever felt like publishing your book is an endless checklist that never quite makes sense, this is your roadmap. Think of it as your launch stack, a calm and structured way to publish in 2025 without losing your mind or your momentum.
The steps below build on each other. Follow them in order, and you will move from manuscript to market with clarity and confidence.
1. Hire Your Team
Before you upload a single file, find professionals who can turn your book from good to publishable. Start by hiring an editor, proofreader, and cover designer. Marketplaces such as Reedsy or trusted freelance networks are great places to begin. You can review portfolios, read testimonials, and choose people who fit your genre and budget.
If you prefer simplicity, assisted service companies like BookBaby or Lulu can manage the entire process for you. They cost more, but you get the benefit of having experienced professionals handle every detail. Your editing and design choices will define your book’s first impression, so treat them as an investment, not an expense.
2. Format and Proof
Once your manuscript is polished, format your ebook and print editions. Tools such as Vellum, Atticus, or Draft2Digital’s free formatter make this process simple. Pay attention to details like front matter, copyright pages, and internal links. These small touches give your book a professional edge.
Before you go live, order a print proof. Holding your book in your hands will help you spot issues with layout, spacing, and design that might be invisible on a screen.
3. Publish Direct to KDP and Optional B&N or Kobo
Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) should be your first stop. It is fast, reliable, and essential for reaching Amazon’s vast audience. Upload your ebook and paperback there. If you do not plan to stay exclusive through Kindle Unlimited, also upload directly to Barnes & Noble Press and Kobo Writing Life.
Going direct gives you better royalties and more control over pricing and promotions. You can always add wide distribution later.
4. Add D2D or IngramSpark to Go Wide
Once your Amazon listing is live, expand your reach through Draft2Digital or IngramSpark. Draft2Digital helps you distribute ebooks to Apple Books, Kobo, libraries, and international stores. IngramSpark focuses on print distribution to bookstores and academic institutions.
If you’re looking for Amazon kdp publishing services, get in touch here.
The two work beautifully together. Draft2Digital builds your digital reach, while IngramSpark opens the door to physical stores.
5. Optimise Metadata and Run Promotions
Your book’s metadata, which includes the title, subtitle, keywords, and categories, determines how readers find you. Take time to refine it. Strong metadata improves visibility in searches and retailer algorithms.
After your book launches, plan a few promotions. Use price drops, ads, or newsletter swaps to build visibility. Kobo and Amazon have built-in promo tools, and BookBub offers powerful campaigns that can attract new readers fast.
6. Track, Learn, and Iterate
Publishing is not a one-time event. Check your sales reports, test different prices, and experiment with covers or descriptions. Every change gives you new data about your audience.
The most successful authors treat publishing as an ongoing learning process. Whether you rely on direct platforms or trusted self publishing companies, steady progress always wins over perfection.
Publishing your book in 2025 does not have to be chaotic. When you break it into simple steps, you stay in control. You know what to do, when to do it, and how to make every action count.
Start small, publish smart, and protect your rights. Everything else will fall into place.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Self-publishing is empowering, but it is also easy to get tripped up by small oversights that cause big headaches later. The good news is that most mistakes are completely avoidable once you know what to look for.
Here are the most common pitfalls to steer clear of when launching your book.
1. Going Exclusive by Accident
Many new authors click through publishing agreements too quickly. On platforms like KDP, enrolling in Kindle Unlimited means agreeing to exclusivity. That means your ebook cannot be sold anywhere else while the enrolment lasts.
Exclusivity can be strategic, but it should be a deliberate choice, not an accident. Always read the terms before ticking any box. If your goal is to reach global readers through other stores or libraries, stay wide instead.
2. Paying for Distribution You Could Get for Free
Some services charge high fees for distribution that platforms like Draft2Digital or IngramSpark already provide. It is easy to assume that paying more guarantees better results, but that is rarely true in publishing.
Before you pay, compare what each platform actually offers. Aggregators such as D2D already distribute to dozens of major retailers at no upfront cost, taking only a small royalty share. Paying hundreds for the same reach makes little sense when those funds could go toward editing or marketing.
3. Skipping ISBN Strategy and Rights Checks
Your ISBN identifies you as the publisher. If you let a company assign one for free, they become the official publisher of record. That can complicate things later if you want to republish, rebrand, or switch platforms.
Always decide in advance whether you want to own your ISBNs. If you plan to publish multiple titles or start a small press, purchase your own. It is a small cost for long-term freedom.
Also, double-check every contract you sign. Some companies bury rights clauses in fine print that allow them to hold onto your files or royalties for longer than you expect. Independent organizations such as the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) offer Watchdog ratings that highlight which services are trustworthy and which are not.
Avoid burnout by setting realistic expectations. Each release teaches you something that will make the next one stronger.
Mistakes happen, but they do not have to stop you. When you know what to watch for, you move through the process with confidence instead of fear.
FAQs
Q1. Which single platform should absolute beginners start with?
Start with Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). It’s the simplest way to publish and sell on Amazon. Once you’re comfortable, add Draft2Digital to reach Apple Books, Kobo, and libraries.
Q2. Do I need both IngramSpark and Draft2Digital?
Usually, yes. IngramSpark gives you bookstore and library reach for print. Draft2Digital handles ebook distribution easily. Together, they cover nearly all global markets.
Q3. Are assisted packages worth it?
They can be. BookBaby and Lulu handle editing, design, and distribution for one price, ideal if you want convenience. If you prefer more control, hire freelancers through Reedsy. Always compare costs and reviews first.
Q4. How do I vet a company’s reputation?
Check independent ratings from ALLi’s Watchdog, read author reviews, and search forums. Avoid services with vague fees, poor communication, or unclear contracts.
Q5. Can I publish print-quality photo or art books?
Yes. Use Blurb for premium visuals or Lulu for creative formats like workbooks. Pair with IngramSpark if you also want bookstore distribution.
Conclusion
Publishing your book is no longer a mystery. It is a process you can master. The hardest part is not writing or editing; it is believing you can take control of your own publishing journey and do it well.
You now have a clear picture of how to move forward. You know which platforms reach the most readers, which distributors simplify your workflow, and which services you can trust. Whether you go fully independent or choose professional help through indie author services, the power stays in your hands.
Start with one small step. Upload your first book. Learn, adjust, and keep building. Each release teaches you more about the market, your readers, and yourself.
The publishing world in 2025 is wide open and waiting for new voices. Your story deserves to be out there. Take the leap and let readers experience what only you can create.