KDP Print versus IngramSpark: A Comprehensive Comparison for Authors
<article>When it comes to self-publishing, choosing the right print-on-demand service is crucial. The two most popular options are <a href="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/index.php/2024/03/18/amazon-kindle-direct-publishing-kdp-honest-review-2024/">KDP Print</a> and <a href="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/index.php/2023/05/30/kindle-publishing-alternatives/">IngramSpark</a>. Both platforms offer unique advantages and disadvantages, making it essential for authors to understand their differences. In this post, we’ll dive into a detailed comparison of KDP Print versus IngramSpark, covering aspects like cost, quality, shipping speed, and distribution options.</article>
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<p class="ez-toc-title" style="cursor:inherit">Table of Contents</p>
<label class="ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label" for="ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-67b93690f3be8"><span class=""><span class="eztoc-hide" style="display:none;">Toggle</span><span class="ez-toc-icon-toggle-span"><svg class="list-377408" fill="none" height="20px" style="fill: #999;color:#999" viewbox="0 0 24 24" width="20px" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z" fill="currentColor"></path></svg><svg baseprofile="tiny" class="arrow-unsorted-368013" height="10px" style="fill: #999;color:#999" version="1.2" viewbox="0 0 24 24" width="10px" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z"></path></svg></span></span></label><input aria-label="Toggle" id="ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-67b93690f3be8" type="checkbox"/><nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2"><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1" href="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/index.php/2025/02/13/kdp-print-vs-ingramspark-comparison/#Ordering_Process_KDP_Print_vs_IngramSpark" title="Ordering Process: KDP Print vs. IngramSpark">Ordering Process: KDP Print vs. IngramSpark</a></li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2"><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2" href="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/index.php/2025/02/13/kdp-print-vs-ingramspark-comparison/#Cost_Breakdown_Comparing_KDP_Print_and_IngramSpark" title="Cost Breakdown: Comparing KDP Print and IngramSpark">Cost Breakdown: Comparing KDP Print and IngramSpark</a></li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2"><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3" href="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/index.php/2025/02/13/kdp-print-vs-ingramspark-comparison/#Shipping_Speed_Which_One_Delivers_Faster" title="Shipping Speed: Which One Delivers Faster?">Shipping Speed: Which One Delivers Faster?</a></li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2"><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4" href="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/index.php/2025/02/13/kdp-print-vs-ingramspark-comparison/#Packaging_Quality_KDP_Print_versus_IngramSpark" title="Packaging Quality: KDP Print versus IngramSpark">Packaging Quality: KDP Print versus IngramSpark</a></li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2"><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5" href="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/index.php/2025/02/13/kdp-print-vs-ingramspark-comparison/#Quality_of_Printing_Cover_and_Paper_Comparison" title="Quality of Printing: Cover and Paper Comparison">Quality of Printing: Cover and Paper Comparison</a></li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2"><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6" href="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/index.php/2025/02/13/kdp-print-vs-ingramspark-comparison/#Distribution_Options_KDP_Print_versus_IngramSpark" title="Distribution Options: KDP Print versus IngramSpark">Distribution Options: KDP Print versus IngramSpark</a></li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2"><a class="ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7" href="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/index.php/2025/02/13/kdp-print-vs-ingramspark-comparison/#Final_Thoughts_Which_One_Should_You_Choose" title="Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?">Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?</a></li></ul></nav></div>
<h2 id="ordering-process:-kdp-print-vs.-ingramspark"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="Ordering_Process_KDP_Print_vs_IngramSpark"></span>Ordering Process: KDP Print vs. IngramSpark<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2>
<p>First up, let’s discuss the process of ordering books from both platforms. For KDP Print, the ordering process is straightforward. If you’re already publishing through Amazon, you can easily order author copies directly from your KDP dashboard. This occurs during the third step of the publishing process or under the ellipsis related to the book in your dashboard. It’s important to note that you need to request an author copy once your book is scheduled or already available in the Amazon marketplace. If you want a copy without a watermark, you must specifically order an author copy, not a proof copy.</p>
<p>IngramSpark’s ordering process is almost as simple, but there are some nuances. You can use the same interior file as KDP, but you must format the book cover to meet their specifications. This can be a bit tricky. Additionally, keep in mind that IngramSpark charges update fees for any changes made after sixty days of publishing your book ($25). However, if you are a member of the Alliance of Independent Authors, you get one free update fee waived each month. For details about membership, visit my affiliate link at <a href="https://DaleLinks.com/ALLi">DaleLinks.com/ALLi</a>.</p>
<h2 id="cost-breakdown:-comparing-kdp-print-and-ingramspark"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="Cost_Breakdown_Comparing_KDP_Print_and_IngramSpark"></span>Cost Breakdown: Comparing KDP Print and IngramSpark<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2>
<p>Now, let’s get into the numbers. First off, let’s look at the book stats:</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>My book: </strong><em><strong>Wide Publishing for Authors</strong></em></span></p>
<ul>
<li>156 pages</li>
<li>On white paper</li>
<li>6×9 trim size</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>KDP Print </strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li>Paperback = $2.87</li>
<li>Hardcover = $7.52</li>
<li>Shipping & taxes = $5.28</li>
<li>Total cost = $15.67</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>IngramSpark</strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li>Paperback = $4.50</li>
<li>Hardcover = $10.09</li>
<li>Shipping & taxes = $12.27</li>
<li>Total = $26.86</li>
</ul>
<p>Yes, IngramSpark charges more for their print products, but it should be noted that I put a rush on the print fulfillment (more about that later). Even then, IngramSpark comes in at a higher premium. However, it’s worth noting that <a href="https://www.ingramspark.com/2025-price-change">IngramSpark</a> is changing its pricing structure on April 1, 2025, with some print options potentially becoming cheaper. Keep an eye on their updates for more details.</p>
<h2 id="shipping-speed:-which-one-delivers-faster?"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="Shipping_Speed_Which_One_Delivers_Faster"></span>Shipping Speed: Which One Delivers Faster?<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2>
<p>After placing my orders, I was eager to see which platform would deliver first. I ordered from KDP on Saturday, January 25th. The hardcover arrived on Monday, February 3rd, while the paperback showed up on Wednesday, February 5th. The hardcover was packaged nicely in a box, but the paperback was stuffed haphazardly in with a box of protein bars in a padded envelope. Thankfully, it arrived undamaged, but the packaging choice raised some eyebrows.</p>
<p>For IngramSpark, I opted for rush service on printing (not shipping), which cost more. I’d never put a rush on printing and was curious if it’d shorten my normal time of ten to fourteen days. I was right. I placed my order on Tuesday, January 28th, and it arrived surprisingly fast on Friday, January 31st. The rush printing combined with standard shipping made a significant difference in delivery speed.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>KDP Print</strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li>Hardcover = 9 days to arrive</li>
<li>Paperback = 11 days to arrive</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>IngramSpark </strong></span></p>
<ul>
<li>Hardcover & paperback = three days</li>
</ul>
<p>If you’re in a hurry for author copies, this speed advantage could be crucial.</p>
<h2 id="packaging-quality:-kdp-print-versus-ingramspark"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="Packaging_Quality_KDP_Print_versus_IngramSpark"></span>Packaging Quality: KDP Print versus IngramSpark<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2>
<p>Packaging quality can greatly affect the condition of your books upon arrival. KDP’s hardcover shipped in a sturdy cardboard box, while the paperback was stuffed in a flimsy padded mailer. In contrast, IngramSpark used a custom cardboard mailer with an itemized list of contents inside. Although all books arrived in good shape, the difference in packaging left me wondering about KDP’s choices. I ordered the author copies and paid extra for shipping, but the paperback was sent in a separate padded mailer with a Prime delivery order.</p>
<p>Think about that for a second. They charged me extra for shipping the paperback, but sent it in a mailer covered by Prime shipping. But, I have no complaints since the book arrived undamaged. I just wish they’d have credited the shipping on the paperback since it was sent in a Prime shipment.</p>
<h2 id="quality-of-printing:-cover-and-paper-comparison"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="Quality_of_Printing_Cover_and_Paper_Comparison"></span>Quality of Printing: Cover and Paper Comparison<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2>
<p>Now, let’s talk about the quality of the printed books. When comparing covers, both KDP and IngramSpark performed well, but there were subtle differences. IngramSpark’s saturation seemed marginally better, which can make a difference in the overall look of the book (see images below).</p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-5007" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_5007" style="width: 1024px"><img alt="KDP Print paperback on the left, IngramSpark paperback on the right." class="size-large wp-image-5007" decoding="async" height="576" loading="lazy" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" src="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-KDP-vs-IS-1024x576.jpg" srcset="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-KDP-vs-IS-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-KDP-vs-IS-300x169.jpg 300w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-KDP-vs-IS-768x432.jpg 768w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-KDP-vs-IS-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-KDP-vs-IS-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" width="1024"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-5007">KDP Print paperback on the left, IngramSpark paperback on the right.</figcaption></figure>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-5008" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_5008" style="width: 1024px"><img alt="KDP Print hardcover on the left, IngramSpark hardcover on the right." class="size-large wp-image-5008" decoding="async" height="576" loading="lazy" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" src="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-1024x576.jpg" srcset="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-300x169.jpg 300w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-768x432.jpg 768w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" width="1024"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-5008">KDP Print hardcover on the left, IngramSpark hardcover on the right.</figcaption></figure>
<p>As for paper quality, KDP uses a 55-pound white paper, while IngramSpark uses a 50-pound white paper. If you choose IngramSpark’s groundwood paper option, it’s cheaper but not quite the quality most authors aim for. Personally, I prefer to stick with the 55-pound option since it’s what my other books use. Sadly, I wish I could get you decent pictures for the interiors, but I’m far from being a qualified photographer. If you want a better view of them, watch <a href="https://youtu.be/UuBf3VN1L6w">my video here</a>.</p>
<p>Another critical point is ink quality. KDP’s black ink isn’t as dark as IngramSpark’s, but this is a minor detail. Both companies did a commendable job with binding and durability. Interestingly, KDP’s books were slightly larger than IngramSpark’s, but this isn’t usually a dealbreaker (see images below).</p>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-5005" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_5005" style="width: 1024px"><img alt="" class="wp-image-5005 size-large" decoding="async" height="188" loading="lazy" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" src="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-size-KDP-vs-IS-scaled-e1739397941870-1024x188.jpg" srcset="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-size-KDP-vs-IS-scaled-e1739397941870-1024x188.jpg 1024w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-size-KDP-vs-IS-scaled-e1739397941870-300x55.jpg 300w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-size-KDP-vs-IS-scaled-e1739397941870-768x141.jpg 768w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-size-KDP-vs-IS-scaled-e1739397941870-1536x282.jpg 1536w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7-comp-size-KDP-vs-IS-scaled-e1739397941870-2048x376.jpg 2048w" width="1024"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-5005">KDP Print paperback on the left, IngramSpark paperback on the right.</figcaption></figure>
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-5006" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_5006" style="width: 1024px"><img alt="KDP Print vs IngramSpark - hardcover thickness" class="wp-image-5006 size-large" decoding="async" height="196" loading="lazy" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" src="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-size-scaled-e1739398029341-1024x196.jpg" srcset="https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-size-scaled-e1739398029341-1024x196.jpg 1024w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-size-scaled-e1739398029341-300x57.jpg 300w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-size-scaled-e1739398029341-768x147.jpg 768w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-size-scaled-e1739398029341-1536x294.jpg 1536w, https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8-comp-KDP-vs-IS-HC-size-scaled-e1739398029341-2048x392.jpg 2048w" width="1024"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-5006">KDP Print hardcover on the left, IngramSpark hardcover on the right.</figcaption></figure>
<h2 id="distribution-options:-kdp-print-versus-ingramspark"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="Distribution_Options_KDP_Print_versus_IngramSpark"></span>Distribution Options: KDP Print versus IngramSpark<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2>
<p>Distribution is another vital factor when considering KDP Print versus IngramSpark. KDP Print primarily focuses on Amazon, unless you opt for their expanded distribution, which is only available for paperbacks. However, this comes with a catch: KDP uses Ingram Book Group for distribution to the US and UK, taking a 20% cut of royalties.</p>
<p>On the flip side, IngramSpark shines in distribution. They distribute to over 45,000 libraries, bookstores, and other retailers, covering not just the US and UK but also Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. This extensive reach can be a game-changer for authors looking to maximize their book’s visibility.</p>
<p>With IngramSpark, you can set your royalties based on the wholesale discounts you offer retailers, which can range from 40% to 55%. This flexibility is a significant advantage over KDP, where you have less control over pricing and royalties.</p>
<h2 id="final-thoughts:-which-one-should-you-choose?"><span class="ez-toc-section" id="Final_Thoughts_Which_One_Should_You_Choose"></span>Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?<span class="ez-toc-section-end"></span></h2>
<p>After weighing the pros and cons of KDP Print versus IngramSpark, it ultimately comes down to your goals as an author. If convenience and affordability are your primary concerns, KDP Print is a fantastic choice. However, if you seek better distribution and higher quality printing, IngramSpark may be worth the extra cost.</p>
<p>For speed, consider ordering directly from Amazon or using rush print services with IngramSpark. Personally, I find myself leaning towards IngramSpark due to its blend of speed and quality printing. However, I plan to continue using both platforms to maximize my options and reach.</p>
<p>Whether you choose KDP Print or IngramSpark, understanding the nuances of each platform will help you make an informed decision for your self-publishing journey. Don’t forget to check out my latest book, <em><a href="https://dalelinks.com/widebook">Wide Publishing for Authors</a></em>, to find out how you can publish your book on platforms like KDP, IngramSpark, Draft2Digital, and more.</p>
<p>Here’s what readers have said:</p>
<blockquote><p>“<span class="a-text-italic">Wide Publishing for Authors: A Guide to Expanding Your Books Reach and Finding More Readers</span> attests to Dales wealth of knowledge. This book identifies the challenges authors face daily in navigating the publishing landscape and addresses these issues comprehensively.”<br/>
– Kennedy Odindo, eBookFairs</p>
<p>“‘Wide Publishing for Authors’ is an eye-opening, insightful glimpse into the expansive and opportunity-filled world of self-publishing! It is yet another solid addition to Dale L. Roberts’s “Self-Publishing with Dale” book series, being the sixth installment.<br/>
– Steven Seril, founder of Outstanding Creator Awards</p>
<p>As an indie author reliant on Amazon for my first book, I found Dale L. Roberts’ Wide Publishing for Authors eye-opening.<br/>
– Trini Bird Reviews, NetGalley</p></blockquote>
<p>Grab your copy of <em>Wide Publishing for Authors</em> when you visit <a href="https://DaleLinks.com/WideBook">DaleLinks.com/WideBook</a>. Happy publishing!</p>
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