You’ve typed The End, you’ve had your manuscript edited, and now you’re standing at one of the final crossroads of the indie publishing journey: Should you publish an eBook, a print book, or both?
As an indie author and book formatter, I’ve helped many writers make this exact decision—and today, I’m sharing the pros and cons of each format to help you choose with confidence.
📱 The Case for eBooks
Pros:
- Easy to format and upload to major retailers like Amazon, Kobo, and Apple Books.
- Lower production costs — no printing fees means more money in your pocket.
- Higher royalty rates (typically 70% on Amazon for eBooks priced between $2.99 and $9.99).
- Flexible launch timelines — you don’t need to wait for a printed proof before going live.
Cons:
- You may lose readers who prefer physical books.
- No tangible version of your book to hold, sign, or give away.
- Some readers still view print as more “official.”
📚 The Case for Print Books
Pros:
- You get a physical product you can hold, sign, gift, or sell at events.
- Print books are perfect for giveaways, book fairs, and author signings.
- There’s something magical about seeing your name on a real cover.
Cons:
- Higher production costs — print-on-demand services take a chunk from each sale.
- More complex formatting — you’ll need to choose a trim size, set margins, pick fonts, and more.
- Each store requires a specific file type, unlike eBooks, which are more flexible.
⚖️ So… Which Format Should You Choose?
If you have the time and the tools (or a formatter you trust!), publishing both an eBook and a print version is ideal. It opens up more sales opportunities and gives you flexibility in your marketing.
But if you’re short on time or just want to hit publish and get your book baby into the world, start with one version and add others later. Many indie authors roll out new formats—like hardcover or audiobook—after their initial launch to build buzz and reach new readers.
There’s no “one right way” to publish. The key is making a plan that works for you and your goals.
🎁 Want a Step-by-Step Formatting Checklist?
Grab my free guide to help you prep your files with confidence—no tech stress required!
