For independent authors and small publishers, choosing how to print and distribute books is a key decision. Print-on-demand (POD) services like Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) offer convenience and zero upfront costs, while offset printing requires bulk orders—but can offer much higher profit margins. So, which is more profitable in the long run?
Offset Printing: Higher Profits, Superior Quality
Offset printing is the industry standard for high-quality, mass-produced books. Ink is transferred to paper through metal plates and rollers, producing clean, sharp text and rich, consistent colors—even across thousands of copies. It also allows for a wider range of paper types, finishes, and customizations that digital printing simply can’t match.
POD with KDP: Simpler, But More Limited
KDP uses digital inkjet printers to produce books one at a time. While fast and convenient, the output tends to have lower color accuracy and less precise detail—especially for image-heavy or full-color books. In addition, paper options are limited to a few standard choices, and special finishes like matte lamination or textured covers are not available.
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
Let’s Compare the Numbers
Take an 8.5 x 8.5-inch, 102-page children’s book sold at $16.99 on Amazon:
Amazon KDP Print-on-Demand Pricing
- Printing cost per book : $9.16 per book
- Amazon takes 40% of the retail price for direct sales.
- Selling price : $16.99
KDP Profit Calculation:
- Amazon’s commission (40%) : $6.80
- Printing cost : $9.16
- Profit per book : $1.03
Offset Printing + Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) Pricing (1,000-Copy Order)
- Printing + shipping to FBA warehouse : $5.51 per book
- Amazon FBA fulfillment cost (storage, packing, and shipping to customers) : $3.00
- Amazon referral fee (15%) : $2.55
- Selling price : $16.99
FBA Profit Calculation:
- Total cost : $11.50
- Profit per book : $5.93
That’s nearly six times the profit per book with offset printing.
Selling on Amazon Without KDP
You don’t have to use KDP to reach Amazon customers. Offset-printed books can be sold via IngramSpark, as a third-party seller using Amazon’s FBA, or through distributors with Amazon access. These options give you more control over quality and pricing—without sacrificing reach.
Why Inclpress?
Inclpress specializes in offset printing for self-publishers worldwide. Based in South Korea, we offer:
- High-quality offset printing at competitive prices
- Flexible order quantities from hundreds to tens of thousands
- Global shipping, including direct to Amazon FBA warehouses
With Inclpress, self-publishers can produce professionally bound books that stand out—while maximizing their earnings.
Conclusion
POD is great for testing ideas, but if your goal is to grow a successful publishing business, offset printing gives you the edge in quality, cost, and brand perception. You’ll deliver a better book—and earn more doing it.
Explore offset printing for your next project at inclpress.com.