For independent authors and small publishers, choosing between offset vs print on demand is a key decision in book publishing. Print-on-demand (POD) services like Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) offer convenience and zero upfront costs. However, offset printing requires bulk orders but can provide much higher profit margins. So, which option 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 using metal plates and rollers. This produces 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. Digital printing simply cannot match this level of quality.
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 often has lower color accuracy and less precise detail. This is especially noticeable in image-heavy or full-color books. Paper options are limited to a few standard choices. Special finishes, such as matte lamination or textured covers, are not available.
Profit Comparison: Offset vs POD
Take an 8.5 x 8.5-inch, 102-page children’s book sold at $16.99 on Amazon:
Amazon KDP (Print-on-Demand)
- Printing cost per book : $9.16 per book
- Amazon takes 40% of the retail price for direct sales : $6.80
- Selling price : $16.99
- 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
- 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 FBA, or through other distributors. These options provide 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 earnings.
Conclusion : offset vs print on demand
POD is ideal for testing book ideas. However, if your goal is to grow a successful publishing business, offset printing provides advantages in quality, cost, and brand perception. You’ll deliver a better book and earn more in the process. Explore offset printing for your next project at inclpress.com.
If you’d like to see how offset printing could benefit your project, Inclpress offers an Instant Book Printing Quote tool.
You can enter your preferred size, page count, and specifications to instantly view offset printing prices — making it easy to compare costs and options.
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