For self-publishers, understanding how book distribution works and the key players can help you make an informed decision when selecting the best path for your book.
In this IngramSpark Review, we’ll take a closer look at IngramSpark as a company, discuss the pros and cons of using the platform, and compare it to one of the leading publishing platforms (Amazon KDP) to help you choose the best option for your author business.
In this IngramSpark review, we’ll cover:
What is IngramSpark?
IngramSpark has been around since 2013 and has a solid reputation. It branched off of the popular Lightning Source platform, which was created by Ingram Book Company as the original print-on-demand (POD) option for book publishers. IngramSpark offered the same benefits as Lightning Source but on a smaller, more user-friendly scale for independent authors and small publishers.
Unlike some of the newer POD companies that have popped up over the last decade, IngramSpark has deep roots. Its parent company, Ingram Book Group, has been around since 1970 as a book wholesaler and is currently the largest global distributor of books and digital content.
Through IngramSpark, creators can publish print-on-demand books and eBooks through the platform and distribute them through the IngramSpark global distribution network, which includes bookstores, libraries, and online retailers.
How IngramSpark works
Like most print-on-demand platforms, getting started with IngramSpark is pretty straightforward.
Account setup and fees
You can set up an account with IngramSpark through their website. Be prepared to provide tax and bank information, royalty percentages desired, and ISBN details (Note: IngramSpark offers free ISBNs. To decide whether a free ISBN is the right choice for you, read How to Get an ISBN.)
Uploading manuscripts and cover files
Uploading your manuscript and cover files is a fairly simple process. Like most platforms, files must be uploaded as a complete PDF with embedded type (fonts). Similarly, cover files must also be uploaded as a PDF. IngramSpark offers a cover template generator to simplify the process.
POD options
IngramSpark offers paperback (glued spine) and hardcover, either as case laminate or jacketed case laminate. Both formats offer matte and glossy finishes. The company offers a wide range of trim sizes, including the standard sizes: 5.5” x 8.5”, 6” x 9”, and specialty sizes in black and white or color interiors.
EBook options
Authors must upload a formatted EPUB file, or they can request that IngramSpark convert a print-ready PDF into an EPUB file.
Distribution
For print and digital formats, IngramSpark offers distribution that includes over 45,000 retailers, institutions, and libraries globally. Partners include Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Google Play Books, and library systems.
Returnability
For print book returns, IngramSpark offers three options:
- No- Non-returnable: Books cannot be returned
- Yes – Deliver: Books can be returned to the publisher (self-publisher).
- Yes – Destroy: Books can be returned by can be destroyed by Ingram.
EBooks are digital and nonreturnable.
Pricing and Royalties
With IngramSpark, authors can select what their discount is for retailers. For print books, authors can set a discount of between 30%-55% off the retail price. For eBooks, authors earn 85% on net sales of eBooks sold through IngramSpark.
IngramSpark vs. Amazon KDP
The popular choice for most new authors is Amazon KDP because of the popularity of the brand, ease of setup, and perks of exclusivity, but before jumping on the bandwagon, let’s compare the two side by side to see the differences.
| Feature | IngramSpark | Amazon KDP |
| Setup fees | Book setup is free, but you may incur fees for optional services. | KDP: For paperbacks, KDP publishes a royalty model where royalty = list price minus printing cost, then the remainder is multiplied by 60% (or 50% for some markets/pricing tiers) for sales on Amazon marketplaces. Expanded distribution options are available. |
| Ebook royalties | IngramSpark: “85% of the net revenue received by IngramSpark.” According to IngramSparks, eBook royalties are calculated as a share of the net received from retailers. (IngramSpark) | KDP: 70% or 35% royalty on Kindle eBooks, depending on list price and territory. KDP Select / Kindle Unlimited are separate programs that affect earnings and exclusivity. (Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing) |
| Distribution/reach | IngramSpark: Royalties are calculated as the wholesale price minus printing & distribution charges. Wholesale discounts are set by the author as well as the return policy. | Print (paperback/hardcover) royalties |
| Distribution / reach | Very broad: Ingram’s global distribution network reaches bookstores, libraries, academic buyers, wholesalers, and online retailers worldwide | Amazon-centric: KDP lists books across Amazon marketplaces (very strong consumer reach on Amazon). KDP offers expanded distribution, but it is limited. |
| Returnability (bookstore returns) | Supported and configurable. Titles are returnable if the author selects this option. | Generally non-returnable on KDP print |
| ISBNs | You can use your own ISBNs or a free one through IngramSpark. | KDP: offers free unique book identifiers similar to ISBNs, known as ASINs for paperbacks and hardcovers. You can use your own ISBN. |
| Marketing tools & promos | IngramSpark provides guides, paid advertising packages, and tools to promote listings, including broad metadata distribution | KDP offers Amazon Ads, Kindle Countdown Deals, Free Book Promotion via KDP Select when you enroll in exclusivity, storefront placement on Amazon, and Kindle Unlimited page reads. |
| Ease of use | Intermediate. IngramSpark’s UI and options are more trade-oriented, so there’s a steeper learning curve compared to other book publishing platforms. | Easy / beginner-friendly. KDP is user-friendly and makes uploading and publishing books a straightforward process. |
| Best for (type of author) | Authors who want bookstore & library distribution, trade reach, and control over wholesale/return settings. | Authors who want fast & free access to Amazon’s massive buyer base, simplicity, and the Kindle ecosystem. |
When comparing apples to apples, there’s not a huge difference between the offerings of each platform; however, it’s the smaller details that can make a huge difference, especially for new authors.
There are a few reasons why we typically recommend Amazon KDP for our authors. Amazon KDP has simpler formatting, faster delivery times, and a larger, centralized audience.
Other reasons Amazon KDP wins over IngramSpark in our book include the following:
1. Author copy printing
In many cases, author copies through KDP are cheaper and faster than ordering from IngramSpark. While IngramSpark’s author copies decrease as the size of the bulk order increases, shipping and handling costs can make the per-book cost increase. Here are a few pricing examples of what this might look like.
| Scenario (page count) | IngramSpark cost per copy (author copy / small order) | Amazon KDP printing cost per copy |
| ~200 pages (standard novel/nonfiction) | ~ $ approx. 2.70–3.50 (for 6″×9″ B&W — using Ingram’s lower page-count / small-book cost basis) (IngramSpark) | ~ $2.30 fixed cost (since 24–108 pages incur only fixed cost) (Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing) |
| ~200 pages (standard novel / nonfiction) | ~ $4.17 per copy (for 0–99 copies, 6″×9″ B&W paperback) (IngramSpark) | ~ $ (1.00 fixed + 200 × 0.012) = $3.40 (approx.) |
| ~300 pages (longer novel / medium-length nonfiction) | While Ingram doesn’t list a 300-page “per-unit” rate, based on the pricing for a 200-page book, a conservative estimate would be $5 (plus shipping) | ~ $ (1.00 + 300 × 0.012) = $4.60 per copy printing cost (Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing) |
2. Better royalties on Amazon sales
Even if an author publishes through IngramSpark, Amazon usually gives better print royalties when the book is published directly through KDP (vs. an Ingram-supplied listing).
- KDP royalties are calculated as:
Paperback royalty = (List Price – Printing Cost) × 60% (for Amazon sales)
This means the author keeps 60% of the profit above printing cost on Amazon purchases. - IngramSpark royalties are calculated differently:
Royalty = Wholesale Price – Printing Cost – Retailer Discount
Because IngramSpark books often have 30–55% wholesale discounts for retailers, the amount that reaches the author is lower than KDP for the same list price, even if the printing cost is the same.
3. More control over the Amazon listing
One of the reasons authors choose self-publishing is for creative control and a hands-on experience that allows them to control important variables like metadata. Sometimes an author needs to update metadata details that impact how a book is discovered. Being able to quickly tweak things like your book’s title, series name, descriptions, or pricing can ensure your book shows up where it’s supposed to in listings.
4. Kindle Unlimited + KDP Select promotional tools
Amazon KDP offers perks for exclusivity (selling through them only for a specific period of time). This includes:
- Kindle Unlimited (page-read income)
- Kindle Countdown Deals
- Free Book Promotions
IngramSpark doesn’t offer anything similar.
5. Amazon Ads integration
Amazon makes it easy to run ads on its platform when you publish through KDP; however, if you publish through IngramSpark and distribute through Amazon, there’s no integrated option for running Amazon ads.
6. Faster updates to content and pricing
KDP updates (price, description, manuscript fixes) typically go live within hours. With Ingram, the time typically takes longer to show up on retailer sites.
7. No wholesale discount or returnability decisions
Compared to IngramSpark, Amazon KDP keeps things simple by making book setup simple. No returns and no wholesale discounts to set up.
8. Indie marketing experimentation
Because Amazon KDP offers a user-friendly platform that puts the control into the hands of the author, testing covers, blurbs, adjusting prices, categories, and keywords is simple.
Key takeaways
To be clear, IngramSpark has a lot to offer, but for many authors, the platform lacks many of the perks found on platforms like Amazon KDP, and the learning curve can make the experience less than ideal. For this reason, we recommend IngramSpark as a supplement to an Amazon KDP strategy or use it as a place to list your book after you see success on Amazon.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. No platform is one-size-fits-all, so doing a deep dive into what a publishing platform offers is a good way to go as a self-publisher. Always do what’s best for your author brand and needs.
Hopefully, this IngramSpark review and Amazon comparison will give you the information you need to make an informed decision. If you’re ready to publish your book and looking for the right publishing path, try our Publishing Path Assessment.
