self publishing companies

The publishing world has undergone a revolution in the last decade, placing unprecedented power and creative control directly into the hands of authors. In 2025, self-publishing is no longer a last resort; it’s a strategic choice for millions of indie authors looking for higher royalties, faster speed to market, and complete ownership of their intellectual property.

However, the term “self-publishing company” is broad. It encompasses everything from free, pure Print-on-Demand (POD) platforms that simply handle printing and eBook distribution, to comprehensive author services providers that assist with everything from manuscript assessment and book development to robust book marketing. Choosing the right partner from this crowded field is the most critical business decision an indie author will make.

The right company will help you create a professional, marketable product, maximize your author revenue, and ensure global visibility. The wrong choice can lead to wasted money, lost time, and a poorly edited final product.

To help you navigate this complex landscape, we’ve analyzed the market to bring you The 21 Best Self-Publishing Companies of 2025, categorized by their core strengths and detailed with the crucial financial and service information every author needs. The 21 BEST Self-Publishing Companies Of 2025

1. Ghostwriting Solution: Publishing Consultancy Provider

Ghostwriting Solution is a highly specialized author services firm, focusing primarily on ghostwriting and the meticulous content creation required for authoritative non-fiction books. Unlike full hybrid publishing houses, their main strength is transforming a client’s concept or expertise into a professionally written, edited, and marketed manuscript. They appeal heavily to experts and entrepreneurs who need a book for thought leadership but lack the time or writing skill to create it themselves. The company concludes its service with high-level publishing consultancy, guiding the author on how to utilize platforms like KDP and IngramSpark for distribution.

Metric Details
Services Offered Expert Ghostwriting, Editorial Services (Developmental/Copyediting), Book Marketing consulting, Publishing Consultancy (high-level guidance).
Geographic Reach Global (Online service providers working with authors internationally).
Cost to Authors High (Fee-for-service, reflecting the premium cost of professional ghostwriting and editing).
Royalties 100% (They are a service provider; author pays the upfront fee and keeps all sales royalties).
ALLi Service Rating Specialized (For High-End Content Creation)
Best for Busy entrepreneurs and professionals needing an authoritative book written for them, followed by strategic launch guidance.

2. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)

Amazon KDP remains the undisputed heavyweight champion for eBook distribution and Print-on-Demand simplicity. As the engine behind the world’s largest bookstore, KDP offers authors direct access to billions of consumers. It is the essential first step for any author, providing the foundational tools for uploading, pricing, and launching both digital and physical editions. Its unparalleled market share in the eBook space means high visibility, especially when leveraging its exclusive program, Kindle Unlimited. KDP excels as a pure distribution platform; authors must source their own editorial services and book cover design separately.

Metric Details
Services Offered eBook distribution, Print-on-Demand (POD), KDP Select (exclusive eBook program), basic reporting.
Geographic Reach Global (dominant in US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, etc.).
Cost to Authors Free to publish; authors only pay for printing costs (which are deducted from sales).
Royalties 35% or 70% for eBooks (depending on price/exclusivity); up to 60% of list price minus printing cost for POD.
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Distribution/Reach)
Best for Every author; essential for maximizing eBook distribution and author revenue in the digital space.
Pros & Cons Pros: Largest market reach, 70% royalty option, fastest time-to-market.
Cons: No editorial support, reliant on Amazon ecosystem, limited customization for print books.

3. IngramSpark

IngramSpark is the industry standard for high-quality Print-on-Demand (POD) and comprehensive global distribution. Owned by Ingram Content Group, the world’s largest book distributor, IngramSpark is crucial for any author aiming for physical bookstore placement, library sales, and international reach outside the Amazon ecosystem. While it requires a bit more technical knowledge than KDP, its expanded printing options (hardcover, custom trim sizes, specialty paper) and deep penetration into the traditional book supply chain make it indispensable for serious indie authors.

Metric Details
Services Offered Global Print-on-Demand (POD), extensive physical and eBook distribution to over 40,000 retailers/libraries, and marketing services (via partners).
Geographic Reach Global (the strongest physical bookstore and library reaches worldwide).
Cost to Authors Small initial setup fee per title (often waived with promotions); free revisions/updates.
Royalties Up to 70% of the list price minus wholesale discount and printing cost (usually targeting 40-55% net).
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Global Trade Distribution)
Best for Authors seeking professional, high-quality print books, international reach, and bookstore/library access.
Pros & Cons Pros: Hardcover availability, highest trade visibility, superior print customization. Cons: Slightly more complex interface, requires mandatory wholesale discount, small setup fee.

4. Draft2Digital (D2D)

Draft2Digital is the premier eBook aggregator and a growing force in simplified POD distribution. D2D acts as a central hub, allowing authors to upload their manuscript once and distribute it to all major non-Amazon retailers (Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, etc.). This service is designed for ease of use, making eBook distribution across multiple platforms painless and efficient. Their unified payment reporting and transparent model make them a favorite among authors prioritizing simplicity and wide digital reach.

Metric Details
Services Offered Global eBook distribution (aggregator), Print-on-Demand (POD) (via IngramSpark partnership), automated formatting, sales reporting.
Geographic Reach Global (specializes in reaching all major retailers outside of KDP).
Cost to Authors Free to publish. D2D takes a percentage of the final sale price (usually around 10-15% of the royalty earned).
Royalties Authors receive approximately 85-90% of the royalty paid by the retailer (e.g., if Apple pays 70%, D2D takes 10-15% of that 70%).
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Aggregation/Ease of Use)
Best for Authors who want simplicity, speed, and maximum eBook distribution without managing multiple accounts.
Pros & Cons Pros: Easiest eBook distribution process, excellent customer support, free automated formatting. Cons: Takes a small cut of royalties, fewer advanced print customization options than direct IngramSpark.

5. Kobo Writing Life (KWL)

Kobo Writing Life is the dedicated self-publishing platform for Kobo, a major international eBook distribution platform. KWL is essential for any author seeking significant sales outside of the US, particularly in Canada, the UK, and Europe, where Kobo has a strong market presence. They also provide direct integration for producing and distributing audiobooks, making them a key player for authors focused on international author revenue streams.

Metric Details
Services Offered Direct eBook distribution, POD distribution (via Ingram partnership), audiobook distribution (via Kobo/Kobo Plus).
Geographic Reach Global (strong presence in Canada, UK, Australia, France, Italy, etc.).
Cost to Authors Free to publish.
Royalties 70% for most eBooks over $$1.99; 45% for books below that threshold.
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For International Digital Sales)
Best for Authors prioritizing international eBook distribution and high author revenue in non-US markets.
Pros & Cons Pros: High international market share, easy-to-use platform, 70% royalty.
Cons: Smaller US market share compared to KDP, requires managing a separate account.

6. BookBaby

BookBaby is one of the oldest and largest full-service, fee-based self-publishing companies. They are a popular hybrid publishing choice for authors who want a one-stop shop for book production. BookBaby offers a comprehensive suite of author services, including professional editorial services, cover design, and book marketing. They guarantee distribution to over 30,000 retail partners and offer both eBook distribution and high-quality POD services, making them a solid solution for authors who prefer to pay a flat fee upfront for production quality.

Metric Details
Services Offered Full book development packages, editorial services, cover design, POD, and eBook distribution.
Geographic Reach Global distribution via major partners.
Cost to Authors Starts around $$1,500 – $$2,000 for basic packages, scaling up significantly for editorial services and marketing.
Royalties Authors keep 100% of the net earnings after retailer/printing cuts (BookBaby does not take an ongoing royalty cut).
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Full-Service Production Quality)
Best for Authors needing high-quality, professional book production services and preferring to pay upfront for 100% net profit later.
Pros & Cons Pros: True one-stop shop, high-quality print, 100% net royalty retention.
Cons: High upfront cost, quality of specific services can vary (like editing/marketing).

7. Lulu

Lulu has a long history as a flexible Print-on-Demand (POD) provider, popular with authors looking for creative control over print specifications, small batch printing, and self-publishing academic or niche texts. While they offer fewer marketing services than some competitors, their strength lies in their customizable printing options and ease of use for authors focused on producing physical books quickly. They recently introduced Lulu Direct, allowing for e-commerce integration.

Metric Details
Services Offered Print-on-Demand (POD), short-run printing, eBook distribution, specialized print options, Lulu Direct (e-commerce).
Geographic Reach Global printing and distribution.
Cost to Authors Free to publish; authors pay print costs and any optional author services.
Royalties Authors receive the remaining profit after printing costs and Lulu’s fee (usually around 80% of the net profit).
ALLi Service Rating Good (For Print Flexibility and Niche)
Best for Authors needing specialized print formats (calendars, textbooks) or those selling primarily through their own websites via Lulu Direct.
Pros & Cons Pros: High print customization, no ongoing royalty cut, good for small print runs. Cons: Distribution network is less robust than IngramSpark, limited book development services.

8. Gatekeeper Press

Gatekeeper Press is a full-service self-publishing company that offers customized packages without taking any ongoing royalties. They focus on providing high-quality book production and editorial services, promising wide distribution via Amazon and Ingram. Their transparent model, where the author pays for services upfront and keeps all subsequent revenue, makes them a highly reputable choice in the service provider space. They are particularly known for their responsive customer support.

Metric Details
Services Offered Editorial services (developmental, copyediting), cover design, formatting, POD, and eBook distribution.
Geographic Reach Global distribution via major networks.
Cost to Authors Varies based on package, typically starting around for design/formatting, scaling up for editorial services.
Royalties 100% of net profits retained by the author.
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Author-Focused Service/Pricing)
Best for Authors needing a full-service book production team that allows them to keep all subsequent author revenue.
Pros & Cons Pros: 100% royalty retention, transparent pricing, focus on customer service. Cons: Upfront cost for services, marketing packages can be generic.

9. Xlibris

Xlibris is one of the original and largest subsidy publishing companies, part of the Author Solutions group. They offer a vast range of services, often appealing to first-time authors with attractive promises of full support. While they provide full book production (editing, design, distribution), their model relies heavily on upselling expensive packages and ongoing support, which has led to mixed reviews regarding value for money. They are a true subsidy publishing house.

Metric Details
Services Offered Editorial services, cover design, distribution, POD, and extensive, highly-priced marketing packages.
Geographic Reach Global.
Cost to Authors High, typically starting around and quickly scaling into the many thousands with upsells.
Royalties Authors receive 50% of net proceeds on print, 25% of net on digital (very low royalty rate for a service provider).
ALLi Service Rating Caution (Due to high cost and low royalty structure)
Best for Authors who are new to self-publishing and require extensive, hands-on guidance (but should proceed with caution).
Pros & Cons Pros: Handheld process, offers many specialized marketing add-ons. Cons: Very high cost for services, extremely low author revenue percentage retained, known for constant upsells.

10. Draft2Digital Print (via D2D)

While already listed as an aggregator, D2D’s in-house print offering, distinct from its Ingram partnership, is becoming increasingly relevant for authors seeking simplicity. It offers a single-dashboard solution for managing both eBook distribution and simplified POD, making it a fantastic option for indie authors who value time and convenience above maximum print customization.

Metric Details
Services Offered Unified dashboard for eBook distribution and Print-on-Demand (POD), simplified metadata management.
Geographic Reach Global (strongest physical bookstore and library reach worldwide).
Cost to Authors Free to publish. D2D takes a percentage of the final print royalty earned.
Royalties Authors receive approximately 85-90% of the royalty paid by the retailer (similar to their digital model).
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Unified Dashboard and Simplicity)
Best for Authors prioritizing maximum eBook distribution simplicity and a basic, consolidated POD solution.
Pros & Cons Pros: One-stop shop for digital and simple print, excellent support, clean reporting. Cons: Print customization is basic, royalty cut exists (unlike KDP/Ingram direct).

11. FriesenPress

FriesenPress is a Canadian-based, high-end hybrid publishing company known for exceptional book production quality and a transparent service model. While their pricing is high, they maintain a reputation for producing beautiful books and offering personalized author services. They are an ideal choice for authors who prioritize a highly curated, professional appearance and don’t mind the premium price tag.

Metric Details
Services Offered Full book development packages, high-quality POD, editorial services, and specialized Canadian distribution.
Geographic Reach Strong in Canada, also global.
Cost to Authors High (packages start around and scale up quickly).
Royalties Authors receive 100% of the net proceeds (after the high initial fee).
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Quality and Transparency)
Best for Authors seeking top-tier production quality, personalized service, and a strong focus on the Canadian market.
Pros & Cons Pros: Exceptional book production quality, 100% net royalty retention, transparent business model. Cons: Premium pricing, less market share in the US compared to major players.

12. PublishDrive

PublishDrive is an innovative eBook aggregator and book distribution company utilizing a unique subscription-based model. Instead of taking a percentage cut of sales, authors pay a flat monthly fee and keep 100% of their royalties. This model is highly attractive to high-volume or successful authors, as it maximizes author revenue once sales reach a certain threshold. They also excel in accessing niche foreign markets and new digital channels.

Metric Details
Services Offered Global eBook distribution, audiobook distribution, POD access, predictive analytics, and marketing tools.
Geographic Reach Global (strong focus on niche international digital stores).
Cost to Authors Monthly subscription fee (tier-based, depending on features and book count).
Royalties Authors keep 100% of the net royalties paid by retailers.
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Innovative Royalty Model)
Best for High-volume or established indie authors who want 100% royalty retention and maximum niche digital reach.
Pros & Cons Pros: 100% royalty retention, access to difficult foreign markets, strong analytics. Cons: Not cost-effective for new or low-selling authors, monthly subscription required.

13. Smashwords

Smashwords is a pioneer in eBook aggregation and distribution, particularly known for its extensive reach into library and academic markets. While Draft2Digital has taken over some of its market share, Smashwords remains essential for its unique distribution points and its highly detailed style guide, which forces authors to create a clean, well-formatted manuscript. It is a critical component of any comprehensive eBook distribution strategy.

Metric Details
Services Offered Global eBook distribution, free automated formatting, detailed style guide.
Geographic Reach Global (strong library/academic channel presence).
Cost to Authors Free to publish. Smashwords takes 10% of the net proceeds (a 10% cut of the retailer’s 70% royalty, for example).
Royalties Authors receive approximately 85-90% of the net royalty.
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Library/Academic Reach)
Best for Authors prioritizing wide eBook distribution and penetration into the library/academic market.
Pros & Cons Pros: Free, extremely wide reach, forces good formatting practices. Cons: Interface is less modern than D2D, requires adherence to a rigid style guide.

14. Outskirts Press

Outskirts Press is a long-standing full-service subsidy publishing company. They offer a range of packages covering book development and distribution. Like many in the subsidy space, their prices can climb quickly, but they are known for offering personalized support and maintaining a relatively author-friendly rights contract compared to some other long-term service providers.

Metric Details
Services Offered Editorial services, cover design, POD, eBook distribution, and optional marketing services.
Geographic Reach Global distribution via major networks.
Cost to Authors Varies widely, starting around for basic and scaling up with editorial services.
Royalties Up to 100% of net profits on some tiers (after their fulfillment fee), depending on the package purchased.
ALLi Service Rating Good (For Full Service and Contract Terms)
Best for Authors seeking a single point of contact for full book production who are comfortable with an upfront fee structure.
Pros & Cons Pros: Long track record, clear service packages, potential for 100% net royalty retention.
Cons: Requires a significant upfront investment, quality of editorial services can be variable.

15. New Shelves Books

New Shelves Books is primarily a specialized book marketing and distribution service that focuses on helping indie authors gain visibility in the physical marketplace, particularly through book marketing to bookstores and libraries. While they don’t offer full book development services, their strategic focus on getting physical books into traditional channels makes them invaluable for authors who have already completed the editing and design stages.

Metric Details
Services Offered Book marketing, library and bookstore pitching, media relations, and strategic distribution consulting.
Geographic Reach US-centric library and bookstore market.
Cost to Authors Varies widely (from to many thousands for specialized marketing campaigns).
Royalties 100% (They are a service provider, not a publisher).
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Specialized Marketing)
Best for Indie authors with a professionally produced book who need help with traditional retail and library book marketing.
Pros & Cons Pros: Deep expertise in library/bookstore placement, highly focused service. Cons: Does not offer editorial services or basic book production, must have a quality book already.

16. Blurb

Blurb excels in high-quality, full-color, bespoke Print-on-Demand (POD), making it a favorite for authors producing photography books, graphic novels, cookbooks, and professional portfolios. Their software tools focus heavily on design and layout, allowing for maximum creative control over the aesthetic of the final physical product. They offer both self-distribution and access to the wider retail market through Ingram.

Metric Details
Services Offered High-quality, full-color POD, design software, and distribution via Amazon/Ingram.
Geographic Reach Global.
Cost to Authors Free design tools; authors pay for the printing cost of each book.
Royalties Authors set their price and retain the remaining profit after printing costs and fees.
ALLi Service Rating Good (For Print Quality/Creative Books)
Best for Authors needing high-end, full-color, design-heavy physical books (cookbooks, photography, graphic novels).
Pros & Cons Pros: Superior print quality for complex books, excellent design software, good for personal print runs.
Cons: More expensive for simple black-and-white texts, distribution can be complex.

17. FastPencil

FastPencil is a cloud-based book development platform that allows authors to write, edit, collaborate, and distribute all in one place. While their book production services are comprehensive, their strength lies in their collaborative tools, which are excellent for team-writing projects, corporate publications, or authors working closely with a freelance editor.

Metric Details
Services Offered Collaborative writing/editing platform, editorial services, POD, and eBook distribution.
Geographic Reach Global.
Cost to Authors Free basic accounts; premium features and services are fee-based.
Royalties Authors retain 85% of net proceeds.
ALLi Service Rating Good (For Collaboration/Development Tools)
Best for Authors who need a collaborative platform to manage the entire book development lifecycle from drafting to distribution.
Pros & Cons Pros: Seamless workflow from writing to distribution, good for co-authored books.
Cons: Interface can be complex, editorial services are outsourced to their network.

18. AuthorHouse

AuthorHouse is another major subsidy publishing imprint under the Author Solutions umbrella. They provide a massive range of author services, specializing in providing a guiding hand for new authors. However, like Xlibris, the core of their model involves selling high-priced packages and add-ons. Authors should carefully review the high costs and low retained royalties before committing.

Metric Details
Services Offered Full book production, editorial services, POD, eBook distribution, and extensive marketing packages.
Geographic Reach Global.
Cost to Authors High, typically starting around and scaling into the many thousands.
Royalties Authors receive 50% of net on print, 25% of net on digital (very low).
ALLi Service Rating Caution (Due to high cost and low royalty structure)
Best for Authors who need extensive hand-holding and are willing to pay a high price for a structured process (use extreme caution).
Pros & Cons Pros: Structured process for beginners.
Cons: Very high cost, extremely low author revenue percentage retained, heavy upselling pressure.

19. BookFuel (By Lulu)

BookFuel is the full-service hybrid publishing arm of Lulu, offering packages for book development and marketing beyond what the basic Lulu platform provides. It is designed for authors who want the quality and distribution of Lulu but need professional editorial services and design work bundled into an upfront fee.

Metric Details
Services Offered Editorial services, cover design, book production, and enhanced marketing packages.
Geographic Reach Global.
Cost to Authors Varies, with packages starting around .
Royalties Authors retain the majority of net profits (depending on the specific package).
ALLi Service Rating Good (For a balanced service/cost model)
Best for Authors who like the Lulu platform but need professional book development services bundled in.
Pros & Cons Pros: Backed by the reputable Lulu brand, clear upfront packages, higher royalty retention than traditional subsidy presses. Cons: Marketing services can be generic, still requires a significant upfront cost.

20. Findaway Voices (A Spotify Company)

While not a traditional self-publishing company for print or eBook, Findaway Voices is the most important audiobook distribution service for indie authors. Audiobooks are a crucial, high-growth component of author revenue, and Findaway Voices allows authors to create and distribute their finished audio product to every major retailer globally, including Audible, Spotify, Apple, and libraries.

Metric Details
Services Offered Audiobook production (sourcing narrators), global audiobook distribution, and rights management.
Geographic Reach Global audiobook distribution to all major retailers.
Cost to Authors Free to distribute; production costs are paid directly to the narrator/studio.
Royalties Authors keep 80% of the revenue from the retailer (Findaway takes a 20% commission).
ALLi Service Rating Excellent (For Global Audiobook Distribution)
Best for Every indie author looking to maximize their author revenue by entering the high-growth audiobook market.
Pros & Cons Pros: Widest audiobook distribution reach, non-exclusive terms (unlike Audible’s ACX exclusive option), high royalty rate. Cons: Requires a finished print/eBook version, cost for professional narration is high.
View All Blogs
Activate Your Coupon
We want to hear about your book idea, get to know you, and answer any questions you have about the bookwriting and editing process.