Who Are the Best Self Publishing Book Publishers in the UK?
TL;DR
- Traditional publishing is slow and restrictive, while self publishing book publishers give you control, speed, and better royalties.
- Benefits of working with a self publishing book publisher: full rights ownership, creative control, flexible formats, and professional guidance.
- Top platforms include KDP, IngramSpark, PublishDrive, Apple Books, Kobo Writing Life, Barnes & Noble Press & Ex Why Zed for digital expansion.
- Ex Why Zed stands out in the UK as the go-to partner for authors who want high-quality print, custom options, and hands-on support.
- With Ex Why Zed, you can self publish easily, from instant quotes and free file checks to flawless print and fulfilment.
For many authors, the hardest part isn’t writing the book, but it’s getting it published. Traditional publishing can feel like a closed door: endless submissions, little creative control, and slim chances of being accepted. It leaves writers wondering how to share their stories without giving up ownership or waiting years for approval.
This is where self publishing book publishers step in. They provide the tools, printing services, and distribution channels you need to bring a manuscript to life. From professional cover design and the right binding method to global distribution, they handle the practical steps so you can focus on your words, with more freedom, faster timelines, and a finished book that truly reflects your vision.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best self publishing book printing companies
Why Work With a Self Publishing Book Publisher?
Publishing a book is about more than putting words on a page; it’s about reaching readers in the most effective and professional way. That’s where self publishing book publishers make a real difference. Here are a few reasons why working with one can change the game for independent authors:
- Creative Control and Full Rights Ownership: Unlike traditional deals, you keep the rights to your work and decide on everything from design to distribution.
- Higher Royalties: With fewer middlemen, you keep a larger share of each sale.
- Flexible Publishing Routes: Choose the formats that suit your audience, whether that’s print editions, ebooks, or even audiobooks.
- Professional Support: Many publishers offer editing, cover design, and distribution guidance to help your book meet industry standards.
In short, working with the right partner means you can focus on writing while they handle the technical details, giving your book the best chance of success. For UK authors, Ex Why Zed offers that balance of expert support and print quality, giving your book the best chance of success.
What Are the 7 Best Self Publishing Book Publishers in the UK?
Choosing the right publishing partner can make all the difference, from how your book looks and feels to how widely it reaches readers. Here are the top seven platforms UK authors turn to most often:
1. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Amazon KDP is the world’s largest self-publishing platform and a global platform for both ebooks and paperbacks. It has become a popular choice for indie authors thanks to its fast turnaround and direct access to Amazon’s massive customer base.
Why Do Authors Choose This Platform?
KDP has become the go-to option for many first-time authors, and here’s why:
- Free setup, no upfront costs.
- Ebooks can be live within 24–48 hours.
- Integrated online book printing service for paperbacks alongside Kindle ebooks.
What Are the Challenges to Consider?
Of course, KDP isn’t without its drawbacks. Authors should be aware of the following:
- Limited in terms of print finishes and children’s books options.
- Hard to control visibility due to marketplace competition.
- Royalties tied to region and retail price settings.
- Authors often underestimate the true self publishing book printing cost once marketing is factored in.
Who Is This Platform Best For?
Authors who want to publish quickly on a global platform and focus on ebook sales, with some paperback support.
2. IngramSpark
IngramSpark is a powerhouse for self-publishers who want both page document printing and global distribution. It connects authors with UK and international bookstores, libraries, and online retailers.
Why Do Authors Choose This Platform?
IngramSpark appeals to authors who want their books widely available, and here’s what makes it stand out:
- Extensive distribution network across the UK and globally.
- Offers both perfect bound and hardback options.
- Strong book design compatibility and professional-level formats.
- Flexible with binding method choices and correct paper size setups.
What Are the Challenges to Consider?
That said, IngramSpark can present a few hurdles for authors, including:
- Charges set up and revision fees.
- Metadata and distribution settings can feel technical.
- Less intuitive interface compared to competitors.
- Not ideal for authors who need frequent file updates.
Who Is This Platform Best For?
Writers looking for book printing for self publishers UK who want to see their titles in bookstores and libraries and need a professional distribution channel.
3. PublishDrive
PublishDrive is a subscription-based platform that helps authors distribute photo books, ebooks, audiobooks, and even hardback books across 400+ global stores, including the United States.
Why Do Authors Choose This Platform?
PublishDrive attracts authors who want flexibility across multiple formats and retailers. Its main strengths include:
- All-in-one publishing hub covering multiple formats.
- No commission fees; authors keep full royalties after store cuts.
- Strong hardback book printing options for those exploring premium editions.
- Flexible with different book sizes to match specific needs.
What Are the Challenges to Consider?
Like any platform, PublishDrive has some drawbacks that authors should weigh carefully. This includes:
- Monthly subscription applies whether you sell or not.
- Less focused on bespoke print compared to digital.
- Requires effort to manage metadata and multiple store feeds.
- May not suit niche authors exploring comic book self publishing printing, where specialised print runs are key.
Who Is This Platform Best For?
Authors aiming for a broad digital reach and those who want to publish in multiple formats worldwide, including the United States.
4. Apple Books
Apple Books is Apple’s self-publishing platform, primarily focused on digital distribution. While smaller in scale compared to Amazon, it gives authors a way to reach readers across Apple devices with competitive royalty rates.
Why Do Authors Choose This Platform?
Authors often pick Apple Books for its straightforward setup and global reach. Its key benefits include:
- Free to upload with royalties up to 70%.
- Access to Apple’s worldwide marketplace.
- Simple integration for Mac users via Pages.
What Are the Challenges to Consider?
However, it comes with restrictions that UK authors should know, like:
- Requires a Mac to publish directly.
- Weaker visibility compared to Amazon or Kobo.
- Often used only as a secondary sales channel.
Who Is This Platform Best For?
Best for Mac users who want to expand ebook availability beyond Amazon, particularly within Apple’s ecosystem.
5. Kobo Writing Life
Kobo Writing Life is the self-publishing arm of Rakuten Kobo, a company with a significant international ebook presence. It’s particularly strong in Canada but has readers in the UK and globally through partnerships.
Why Do Authors Choose This Platform?
Kobo is popular with authors seeking additional international reach. Here’s why they stand out:
- Easy-to-use publishing dashboard.
- Competitive royalty rates.
- Access to Kobo’s global store and device users.
What Are the Challenges to Consider?
There are a few limitations to weigh up before using Kobo. This includes:
- Limited reach in the UK compared to Amazon KDP.
- Works best as part of a wider distribution strategy.
- Less marketing support than larger retailers.
Who Is This Platform Best For?
A good fit for authors who want international reach and an extra channel beyond Amazon KDP.
6. Barnes & Noble Press
Barnes & Noble Press is the US-based retailer’s self-publishing platform. While it has limited UK visibility, it can add value as part of a wider distribution strategy, especially for authors targeting North American readers.
Why Do Authors Choose This Platform?
Writers turn to B&N for its simplicity and US market access. Other benefits include:
- Free to upload with up to 70% royalties.
- Simple interface and publishing tools.
- Access to Barnes & Noble’s online store and Nook devices.
What Are the Challenges to Consider?
It’s less effective for UK-focused authors because:
- Minimal presence in the UK market.
- Works best for targeting US readers.
- Limited marketing and discoverability options.
Who Is This Platform Best For?
Ideal for authors looking to reach American audiences and add another retailer to a “publish wide” strategy.
7. Ex Why Zed
At Ex Why Zed, we’ve helped thousands of authors, artists, and universities turn their manuscripts into beautiful printed books. Unlike the big, faceless platforms, we give you complete control over your publishing process, and we’re here in the UK to support you every step of the way.
Because every project is different, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we shape our services around your book and your goals. Here’s how we can help:
- Formats: We print everything from children’s books, photo books, novels, zines, catalogues, to hardback books.
- Print Runs: You can choose a short run of copies, experiment with small print runs to test the market, or scale up to something larger.
- Finishes: We offer flexible binding methods such as perfect bound, case bound, or stitched, and we’ll guide you on choosing the correct paper size.
- Tools & Support: Our instant quote calculator helps you plan costs, you can save a copy of this quote, and we provide free file checks before printing.
- Fulfilment: We offer storage and dispatch services, so we can deliver your books straight to your readers.
Why Authors Love Working With Us?
We’re passionate about producing books that look and feel exceptional. From the weight of the paper to the sharpness of the print, every detail matters, and we treat each project with the same care we would give our own. With us, you get:
- High quality digital and litho presses ensure stunning print quality every time.
- Transparent pricing; no hidden extras, VAT-free, and free UK delivery by your chosen delivery date.
- A responsive, UK-based customer services team that replies within minutes.
- A smooth, seamless experience tailored to your specific needs.
Rated 4.6/5 on Trustpilot, we’re proud that authors see us not simply as printers, but as partners who help bring their books to life.
Is Ex Why Zed the Right Fit for You?
If you’ve been searching for a reliable partner for self publish book printing UK, we’ll guide you through each stage so the process feels straightforward. Whether you’re comparing self publishing book printing cost or simply want clarity around timelines and options, we keep things transparent and simple.
As one of the best book printers for self publishing UK, we support a wide range of projects, from novels and zines to comics and hardback book printing, giving you the freedom to publish with confidence.
How to Self Publish and Print a Book with Ex Why Zed?
For many first-time authors, the idea of turning a manuscript into a finished book can feel daunting. That’s why we’ve designed a simple, supportive process to make sure you know exactly how to self publish and print a book with Ex Why Zed. From your first draft to the moment you hold your own book in your hands, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Here’s how it works:
- Plan Your Project: Decide on the format that suits your vision best, whether that’s a novel, a set of photo books, a series of children’s books, or a sturdy hardback book printing project.
- Prepare Your Files: Send us a print-ready PDF, or use our free resources to get the layout, margins, and spine width set up correctly. If you’re not sure, our team will run a free file check before anything goes to print.
- Get an Instant Quote: Use our online calculator to see exactly what your project will cost. You can save a copy of this quote for later, and there are no hidden extras; the price you see is the price you pay.
- Print with Confidence: Once you’re happy, we’ll move your book into production using our HP Indigo and Heidelberg presses. These guarantee exceptional print quality on every page.
- Receive Your Books: We’ll confirm your delivery date and ship directly to your door, free of charge, anywhere in the UK. If you prefer, we can even store your books and dispatch them to your readers one by one.
The whole process is built around transparency, speed, and flexibility. You stay in control of the publishing process, while our friendly customer service team ensures a smooth and seamless experience at every stage.
Ready to bring your manuscript to life? Get a free quote from Ex Why Zed today, and take the first step towards publishing your book with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Publishing can feel overwhelming with so many options, each offering different features and costs. The best choice depends on your goals: KDP and PublishDrive excel in global digital reach, while IngramSpark is strong for bookstores and libraries.
If you value print quality, creative freedom, and personal support, Ex Why Zed is the standout option for UK authors. Self publishing isn’t just about printing words; it’s about creating a book you’re proud of, and choosing the right partner makes that possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which publisher is the best for publishing my 1st book?
The best choice depends on your goals. If you want global ebook reach, Amazon KDP is a great start. For high-quality print and hands-on support in the UK, Ex Why Zed is often the preferred option for first-time authors.
How do self-published book publishers work?
Self-published book publishers provide the services you need to turn a manuscript into a finished book. They handle printing, distribution, and sometimes editing or design, while you keep control of rights, royalties, and the overall direction of your publishing journey.
How do I decide where to self-publish?
Think about your priorities: global ebook sales, bookstore distribution, or premium print quality. Compare costs, support, and flexibility. For UK authors who value personal guidance and excellent print quality, Ex Why Zed offers a tailored publishing experience that’s easy to manage.
How much does it cost to self-publish a book?
Costs vary depending on format, page count, and services. Digital-only publishing can be free with platforms like KDP, while print runs involve setup and printing costs. Ex Why Zed provides instant quotes with transparent, VAT-free pricing, so you know exactly what to expect.
What are the benefits of self-publishing?
Self-publishing gives you creative control, higher royalty potential, and faster routes to market. You decide the cover design, binding method, and retail strategy. Plus, you avoid long waits and rejections from traditional publishers, bringing your book to readers on your terms.
Are there any other good self-publishing platforms?
While there are plenty of digital-first options, many authors prefer a partner who understands the craft of printed books. That’s where Ex Why Zed stands out, by combining high-quality printing, transparent pricing, and hands-on support to make self publishing simple and stress-free.
I want to self-publish a book. Where do I start?
Begin by defining your goals: print, digital, or both. Prepare your manuscript and cover design, then choose a platform that fits. Ex Why Zed offers clear guides, free file checks, and instant quotes to simplify your first steps.
What is the easiest way to self-publish?
The easiest route is using a platform that handles the technical details while letting you focus on writing. Amazon KDP is simple for ebooks, while Ex Why Zed makes UK book printing for self publishers smooth, fast, and beginner-friendly.
What file formats do UK self publish book printers accept?
Most UK self publish book printers prefer print-ready PDF files to ensure fonts, layouts, and images display correctly. Some also accept Word or InDesign files, but a properly exported PDF is the industry standard for professional book printing.
