(And When It Actually Matters)
If you’re publishing your book in print, you will quickly run into this question:
Should you use Amazon KDP or IngramSpark?
Some people treat this like a rivalry. It’s not.
They serve different purposes. And in many cases, serious indie authors use both.
Let’s break it down clearly so you can decide what fits your goals.
What Amazon KDP Does Well
Amazon KDP is Amazon’s print-on-demand and eBook platform.
It is:
- Simple to set up
- Integrated directly with Amazon
- Fast for approvals
- Free to use
- Ideal for beginners
When you publish a paperback through KDP, your book appears on Amazon automatically. It prints on demand when someone orders it.
For many authors, that is enough.
If most of your sales will happen on Amazon, KDP alone may be perfectly sufficient.
Where KDP Has Limitations
KDP’s expanded distribution exists, but it is limited.
Bookstores and libraries typically order through Ingram’s distribution network. They do not order from Amazon.
So if you want:
- Strong bookstore presence
- Wider wholesale distribution
- Easier access to libraries
KDP alone may not be enough.
That is where IngramSpark comes in.
What IngramSpark Does Well
IngramSpark connects your book to Ingram’s global distribution network.
This includes:
- Independent bookstores
- Large retailers
- Libraries
- International markets
IngramSpark is often viewed as the more “industry standard” distributor for print books.
It allows you to:
- Set wholesale discounts
- Allow returns
- Position your book for bookstore ordering
If your goal includes physical bookstore placement, IngramSpark matters.
The Cost Differences
KDP:
- Free to upload
- No setup fee
- Print cost deducted from royalty
IngramSpark:
- Usually has setup fees, though promotions sometimes waive them
- Print cost deducted from royalty
- More complex wholesale discount structure
KDP is simpler and cheaper upfront.
IngramSpark requires more decision-making.
The Wholesale Discount Factor
This is important.
Bookstores expect a standard wholesale discount, often around 55 percent, and returnability.
KDP does not offer traditional wholesale discounts in the same way IngramSpark does.
If you want bookstores to seriously consider carrying your book, IngramSpark gives you the structure to do that.
Without appropriate discount and return settings, bookstores are unlikely to stock your book.
Should You Use Both?
Many experienced indie authors do.
The common strategy is:
Use KDP for Amazon sales.
Use IngramSpark for wider distribution.
There is one important rule if you do this.
Do not enable expanded distribution on KDP if you are also using IngramSpark.
Otherwise, your book can compete against itself in distribution systems.
Keep KDP for Amazon.
Use IngramSpark for everywhere else.
When KDP Alone Is Enough
KDP is likely enough if:
- You expect most sales through Amazon
- You are not pursuing bookstore placement
- You want the simplest setup
- You are publishing your first book
For many indie authors, Amazon is the primary sales channel.
There is nothing wrong with focusing there.
When IngramSpark Makes Sense
Consider IngramSpark if:
- You want your book available to bookstores
- You plan to approach local stores
- You want library access
- You are building a long-term publishing brand
- You want more control over wholesale terms
IngramSpark gives you more industry-level distribution options.
It also requires more responsibility and more understanding of how wholesale pricing works.
Print Quality Differences
Both use print-on-demand.
Some authors report slight paper or color differences between platforms.
These differences are usually minor.
Ordering proof copies from both platforms can help you decide if quality matters for your specific project.
Final Thought
This is not about choosing the “better” platform.
It is about choosing the right tool for your goals.
If you are publishing simply and selling primarily through Amazon, KDP may be all you need.
If you are building a broader distribution strategy, IngramSpark becomes valuable.
Publishing is not one-size-fits-all.
The right choice depends on how you plan to grow.
You might also enjoy:
Complete Book Formatting Guide
How to Format Your Book for Kindle or Print
What Does “Formatting” Even Mean? (For Real.)
Common Formatting Mistakes New Authors Make