Introduction: Why Self-Publishing Platforms Matter
Self-publishing has transformed the publishing industry. Today, authors can bypass traditional gatekeepers, distribute globally, and earn royalties directly. But with dozens of platforms available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this post, we’ll break down the best self-publishing platforms in 2025, highlighting both pros and cons, so you can decide where to publish your book.
What to Look for in a Self-Publishing Platform
Before choosing, consider these key factors:
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Distribution reach – Amazon vs. wide distribution.
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Royalties and pricing control – what you’ll actually take home.
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Format support – print-on-demand, eBook, or audiobook.
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Ease of use – beginner-friendly vs. professional systems.
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Marketing and discoverability tools – does the platform help sell your book?
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Amazon KDP dominates the eBook world. It offers global reach, print-on-demand, and a straightforward interface. However, royalties vary by region, and if you choose KDP Select, you must keep your eBook exclusive to Amazon. This is powerful for Kindle Unlimited exposure, but it limits your distribution options.
Apple Books for Authors
Apple Books integrates seamlessly with Apple devices, reaching millions of iOS users. Royalties are competitive, and exclusivity isn’t required. The downside is limited global reach — outside Apple-heavy markets like the US, sales potential drops.
Barnes & Noble Press
Barnes & Noble Press is strong in the US, with easy eBook and print publishing. It’s free to use and beginner-friendly. The limitation? Its reach beyond the US is minimal, so global sales will be limited.
Kobo Writing Life
Kobo is particularly strong in Canada and Europe. It’s also well integrated with libraries via OverDrive. Authors can set flexible pricing and promotions. However, its market share is small compared to Amazon, so sales may be modest unless your audience already uses Kobo.
Google Play Books
Google Play Books integrates with the world’s largest search engine, making your book easier to discover online. It offers global reach and decent royalties. Still, the publishing dashboard can feel clunky, and pricing can be unpredictable compared to Amazon or Apple.
Smashwords (via Draft2Digital)
Smashwords built its reputation on distributing eBooks widely. Now part of Draft2Digital, it still offers broad reach to smaller retailers and libraries. Formatting was once its weakness, but Draft2Digital has streamlined the process. Still, royalties can be slightly lower than publishing directly with retailers.
Draft2Digital
Draft2Digital is widely considered the easiest self-publishing platform for beginners. Its formatting tools are professional, and it distributes your book to multiple retailers with one upload. The trade-off is royalties — you may earn a little less compared to publishing directly.
IngramSpark
IngramSpark is the gold standard for print distribution. Bookstores and libraries trust Ingram, making it ideal for authors who want credibility beyond Amazon. But it’s not free: setup fees and annual costs can add up, and the dashboard is less intuitive than KDP or Draft2Digital.
Lulu
Lulu offers print-on-demand and eBooks with broad distribution. Its flexibility stands out, especially for non-standard formats like photo books. However, production costs are higher, which can force you to price your book above market averages.
Blurb
Blurb is perfect for design-heavy books like photography, art, and portfolios. Its integration with Adobe InDesign makes it ideal for creatives. But for standard novels or non-fiction, it’s less practical due to weaker mainstream distribution.
Reedsy (Marketplace + Free Tools)
Reedsy isn’t a publishing platform itself, but it’s invaluable for preparing your book. Authors can hire professional editors, designers, and marketers, and use Reedsy’s free formatting tool. You’ll still need to upload your book to another platform for distribution.
Wattpad Books
Wattpad is a community-driven platform for serialized storytelling, especially popular among younger readers. Authors with massive followings can land publishing deals or even film adaptations. But for most writers, monetization is limited unless you achieve viral popularity.
Niche & Regional Platforms
For authors in specific regions, local self-publishing platforms can be useful. In South Africa, for example, some services focus on regional print-on-demand and bookstore placement. These are excellent for local exposure, though they lack global reach.
Comparing the Best Self-Publishing Platforms
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Best eBook platform: Amazon KDP (reach) or Draft2Digital (ease + wide distribution).
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Best print platform: IngramSpark (professional reach) or Lulu (flexibility).
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Best for beginners: Amazon KDP for simplicity, Draft2Digital for hand-holding.
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Best for global reach: A hybrid strategy — KDP plus Draft2Digital.
The Best Self-Publishing Option for Authors in South Africa
For South African authors, Amazon KDP is usually the strongest starting point. Amazon gives you global reach, and many South African writers already sell successfully to readers in the US, UK, and Europe through KDP. Pairing KDP with Draft2Digital can broaden your distribution to platforms like Kobo and Apple Books, which aren’t as dominant locally but expand your international footprint.
When it comes to print books, IngramSpark offers professional global distribution, but setup fees can be steep.
In short:
Best for eBooks: Amazon KDP (global reach) + Draft2Digital (wide distribution).
Best for Print: IngramSpark (global credibility).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Locking into exclusivity (like KDP Select) without weighing long-term goals.
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Ignoring setup fees on platforms like IngramSpark.
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Underestimating the need for professional editing and design.
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Believing platforms will market your book — most won’t.
Tips for Self-Publishing Success
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Invest in design: Readers do judge books by covers.
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Build an author platform: Use a website, email list, and social media.
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Think long-term: Choose platforms that align with your five-year publishing goals.
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Experiment: Hybrid strategies often work best.
Conclusion
There’s no single “best” self-publishing platform — only the best one for your goals. Amazon KDP delivers reach, IngramSpark provides bookstore credibility, Draft2Digital makes distribution painless, and niche platforms serve unique needs. The smartest authors combine platforms strategically, building visibility and income streams over time.