Fundamental Types of Self-Publishing Companies
Before diving into today’s list of self-publishing companies, it’s important to first understand the different categories that exist. This foundation will help you grasp the distinctions between each company and make a well-informed choice. So, without further ado, here are the main types of self-publishing companies available:
Aggregators
Aggregators are platforms that distribute your book across numerous online retailers. By uploading your manuscript once, your book can be made available on 30+ platforms, saving you time, money, and effort.
They’re often a starting point for many authors, especially those seeking broader visibility. Aggregators help extend your reach to wider audiences by placing your book on multiple retail channels.
Author service
Also known as author service providers, these companies offer a wide range of publishing-related services—editing, formatting, cover design, ghostwriting, illustrations, and more.
While many are legitimate and supportive, some are essentially vanity publishers that charge high fees without delivering quality. It’s important to vet them carefully before committing.
Publishing Educator
These are companies that focus on teaching you how to self-publish successfully. They offer courses, coaching programs, and educational materials rather than selling books themselves.
Their goal is to equip you with knowledge about the self-publishing process so you can build a successful writing career. Keep in mind, these platforms don’t usually sell books directly.
Retailers
Retailers sell books directly through their own platforms. All you have to do is upload your book, and they handle the rest. Some also offer exclusive marketing programs and tools to boost your book sales.
Retailers are ideal if you’re looking for a dedicated platform to list and promote your book.
The Best Self-Publishing Companies You Should Know in 2025
Each self-publishing company brings something unique to the table. Here’s a quick overview of some of the top options to consider this year:
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Apple Books
Barnes & Noble Press
Draft2Digital
Silicon Book Publishers
Kobo
Publish Drive
Smash words
StreetLib
LuLu
XinXii
Market Leader
With 310 million active users and over 6 million eBooks available, Amazon dominates the self-publishing scene. It also provides two programs: KDP Select and Kindle Unlimited.
KDP Select vs. Kindle Unlimited
KDP Select allows you to promote your book—including free promotions—while Kindle Unlimited gives subscribers access to a wide range of books monthly. Be aware that KDP Select requires exclusivity, meaning your book must be sold only on Amazon.
Apple Books
Apple Books launched in 2010 and offers a simple, free upload process. Authors receive 70% royalties. By 2012, the platform had seen over 400 million downloads.
Apple Ecosystem Advantage
Using iBook Author, Mac users can upload books effortlessly. Though monetization may be trickier, the direct access to Apple’s user base is a big plus.
Caveats
To publish, you must use a Mac. Books aren’t browser-readable, and the ePub format used isn’t supported by many platforms. However, you can freely adjust pricing without exclusivity restrictions.
Extra Support
They provide an advertising platform and industry connections. Just sign up, upload your book, and it goes live within 72 hours.
Draft2Digital
D2D is a trusted aggregator known for its ease of use and customer service. Uploads are free, with a 10% fee on each sale.
Why Choose D2D?
Features include Universal Book Links for broad discoverability and an auto-generated “Also by this Author” section that updates your published catalog dynamically.
Silicon Book Publishers
Silicon Book Publishers helps authors with software to format manuscripts into ePub, Mobi, or PDF. It also offers access to a professional community—editors, designers, marketers—to guide you through each phase.
Online Tools and Talent
This platform combines user-friendly tools with expert services, making it easier to turn your manuscript into a polished, market-ready book.
Kobo
A subsidiary of Rakuten, Kobo represents 25% of Canada’s eBook market. Uploading is free, and royalty rates are 70% (over $2.99) and 45% (below).
Kobo Writing Life (KWL)
With access to over 38 million users in 150+ countries, KWL is a self-publishing portal praised for simplicity and global reach.
PublishDrive
Founded in 2015, Publish Drive offers either a 10% royalty share or a flat subscription fee of $100/month to keep 100% of your royalties.
Global Distribution
This aggregator connects you with over 400 stores including Google Play, Scribd, and Over Drive. Known for excellent analytics and international reach, it’s ideal for experienced authors aiming for global sales.
Smashwords
One of the pioneers in eBook aggregation, Smash words distributes to platforms like Kobo, Scribd, and Apple Books. They take 15% on sales through their store and 10% on other platforms.
Limitations and Benefits
Though it requires manual formatting and doesn’t distribute to Amazon, Smash words boasts a broader distribution network than some competitors and offers up to 80% royalties on direct sales.
StreetLib
StreetLib supports more than just eBooks—they also distribute audiobooks, comics, and magazines. Their dashboard is available in multiple languages, and their 10% commission includes global reach.
Unique Advantage
An Italian company with a strong European and Latin American presence, StreetLib is ideal for authors seeking multilingual and international exposure.
LuLu
LuLu specializes in print-on-demand services. Authors earn 80% on print and 90% on eBooks. The platform also features e-commerce tools and an indie bookstore.
Comprehensive Services
With over 2 million books and nearly 1 million eBooks, LuLu offers free publishing tools and paid services for marketing, editing, and design.
XinXii
A German platform catering to European markets, XinXii distributes to Amazon, Kobo, and other regional retailers. Royalties are 70% (over $2.49) and 40% (below).
Regional Strength
XinXii helps indie authors reach readers in German-speaking countries and offers support for both book creation and promotion.
Why Should You Write a Book?
Self-Discovery
Writing compels you to reflect deeply on your values and life experiences, sparking meaningful personal growth.
Rediscover Passion
Digging into your thoughts can revive dormant interests and give new life to forgotten dreams.
Practice Makes Perfect
Writing regularly sharpens your skill—every word you write helps you improve.
Boost Problem-Solving
From planning to execution, writing a book challenges your brain and strengthens your critical thinking.
Knowledge Expansion
Thorough research enriches your understanding of topics, boosting your overall knowledge base.
Advantages of Self-Publishing
Higher Earnings
You keep a larger share of your earnings compared to traditional publishing.
Creative Freedom
You retain full control over the content, cover, formatting, and marketing of your book.
Pricing Authority
Set your book’s price based on your goals—higher margins or broader readership—it’s your call.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Research thoroughly and compare options to find what aligns best with your publishing goals.
