# Amazon KDP

> Amazon's free self-publishing platform for paperback and hardcover with the lowest per-unit print cost and seamless Amazon sales.

Source: https://selfpublishingdirectory.com/print-on-demand/amazon-kdp
Website: https://kdp.amazon.com
Category: Print-on-Demand (https://selfpublishingdirectory.com/print-on-demand)
Pricing: free — $0
AI-powered: no
Editor's pick: yes
Tags: amazon, paperback, hardcover, no-upfront-cost, global, beginner-friendly
Last verified: 2026-05-14
Best For: All self-publishing authors who want the lowest print cost and direct Amazon sales — the essential first POD account
Distribution Channels: Amazon, Expanded Distribution
Print Formats: Paperback, Hardcover
Shipping Regions: Worldwide, US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia

Amazon KDP Print is the most essential print-on-demand platform for self-publishing authors — it offers the lowest per-unit printing cost of any major POD service and integrates directly with the world's largest online book retailer. Authors earn 60% royalties on Amazon sales (minus printing costs), with no upfront fees and 1-3 day production times across Amazon's global fulfillment network.

- **Best for:** All self-publishing authors who want to sell on Amazon — virtually every indie author should publish a print edition here
- **Print cost:** Approximately $2.30-$6.80 per copy depending on page count and format, deducted from royalties
- **Distribution:** Expanded Distribution makes books available to libraries, universities, and non-Amazon retailers via Ingram at no extra cost
- **Formats:** Standard paperback and hardcover in dozens of trim sizes; B&W and color printing
- **Pricing:** Free to publish — you only pay printing costs, which are deducted from each royalty payment