- Clara Barr
- 0 min read
IngramSpark vs Lulu Publishing
Table of Contents
In the fast-growing world of self-publishing, authors have more tools than ever to take control of their publishing journey. With over 1.7 million self-published titles hitting the market in 2022 alone, choosing the right platform is crucial for standing out in a competitive landscape.
Two of the most prominent platforms leading the charge are IngramSpark and Lulu Publishing. Both companies empower authors to sidestep traditional publishing gatekeepers, giving them the freedom to publish on their terms.
However, while they share similar goals, their approaches differ in key areas. This article will break down the essential differences between IngramSpark and Lulu Publishing, helping you decide which platform is the best fit for your self-publishing journey.
Key Differences
- Distribution Network: IngramSpark has a more extensive global distribution network, reaching over 40,000 retailers and libraries, including physical bookstores, making it ideal for authors looking for widespread exposure in both digital and physical markets. Lulu Publishing, while offering global distribution, is more focused on online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, with limited access to physical stores.
- Ease of Use: Lulu is known to be more accessible for first-time authors. However, its production tools are more basic, requiring authors to handle most of the production process themselves. IngramSpark, on the other hand, is more complex to use, with a steeper learning curve, making it better suited for authors with more experience or those seeking higher-quality print options.
| FEATURE |  |  |
| ⭐ Customer Experience | More complex to use and poor customer support. | Reasonable prices, but issues with print quality and support. |
| 💸 Affordability | Publishing fees starting at $25 for eBooks, $49 for print books. | Free basic services, transparent pricing, optional paid services. |
| 📚 Service Model | Distribution and Print-on-Demand | Comprehensive self-publishing with a wider range of product options |
| ⏳Production Speed | 6-8 weeks for global distribution approval | 2-4 weeks after approval |
| 🏢 Marketing Services | Limited (authors must handle their own marketing) | Minimal, author-driven marketing |
| 🌎 POD & Distribution | 40,000+ Retailers and Libraries Worldwide | Distributes through major retailers and bookstores |
| 🧑💻 Support | Phone, Email, and Chat Support (mixed reviews) | Guides, customer support |
Overview of IngramSpark
IngramSpark is a well-regarded platform in the self-publishing industry, renowned for its extensive global distribution network and efficient print-on-demand (POD) services. Launched to cater to the needs of self-published authors and small publishers, IngramSpark offers a cost-effective solution for those seeking to distribute their books widely without the significant overhead costs typically associated with traditional publishing.
The platform is particularly appealing to authors who want to maintain control over their publishing process while still benefiting from the expansive reach of a global distribution network. IngramSpark enables authors to make their books available in both print and digital formats, reaching over 40,000 retailers, libraries, and online platforms, including major players like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books.
While IngramSpark excels in distribution and POD services, it’s important to note that the platform does not provide fundamental publishing services such as editing, cover design, or marketing. This means authors must be prepared to handle these aspects independently. Despite this, IngramSpark remains a popular choice for those who prioritize broad distribution and flexible printing options at a reasonable cost.
Key Features of IngramSpark
- Global Distribution Network: IngramSpark connects authors with over 40,000 retailers and libraries worldwide.
- Print-On-Demand (POD) Services: Flexible options allow authors to print anywhere from one book to thousands, reducing the risk of unsold inventory.
- Educational Resources: The platform offers tools and resources to help authors navigate the publishing process.
- Online Sales Reporting: Authors can track sales performance in real time, providing valuable insights for optimizing marketing strategies.
Does Not Offer
- Publishing Services: IngramSpark does not provide fundamental services like proofreading, editing, cover design, or formatting.
- Direct Publishing Assistance: Authors are responsible for managing all aspects of their book’s production and distribution.
- Extensive Support: Customer service has received mixed reviews, with some authors experiencing delays and difficulties in receiving assistance.
Overview of Lulu
Lulu Publishing is a versatile self-publishing platform that caters to independent authors, small publishers, and creators looking for a range of product options. Founded in 2002, Lulu offers a free-to-use platform for book creation and distribution, allowing authors to publish without any upfront costs. One of its standout features is the high royalty rates, with authors retaining 80% of profits from print book sales and 90% from eBooks. Additionally, Lulu has no minimum order requirement, enabling authors to print as few or as many copies as needed. The platform supports global distribution, making books available through major retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as other online and physical stores. Lulu also provides comprehensive print-on-demand services, ensuring books are printed only when ordered, which helps manage costs and avoid excess inventory.
Key Features of Lulu Publishing
- Free to Use: No upfront costs for book creation and distribution.
- High Royalties: Authors retain a significant percentage of profits (80% for print, 90% for eBooks).
- No Minimum Orders: Flexibility to print as few or as many copies as desired.
- Global Distribution: Access to major retailers and online stores, along with print-on-demand options.
Does Not Offer
- Basic Production Tools: Limited tools for formatting, cover design, and proofreading, requiring authors to handle these aspects themselves.
- No Marketing Services: Authors are responsible for their own promotion, as Lulu does not provide extensive marketing support.
- Complex Platform: The platform can be challenging for new users to navigate, and there have been reports of inconsistent print quality.
Comparing Pricing & Affordability
When it comes to affordability, both IngramSpark and Lulu Publishing offer competitive pricing structures, but they differ significantly in terms of upfront costs and potential fees throughout the publishing process.
IngramSpark charges upfront fees for publishing, which can be a barrier for some authors. The cost is $49 for both print and eBook formats, or $25 for eBook-only publishing. Additionally, authors are responsible for purchasing their own ISBNs, which adds to the total cost. While the platform provides a price calculator to help estimate printing costs and royalties, the need to pay these upfront fees may deter authors who are seeking more budget-friendly options. IngramSpark’s wholesale discount options (typically 55%) also impact royalties, reducing the author’s share from each sale.
In contrast, Lulu Publishing is free to use for basic publishing services. Authors can create, upload, and distribute their books without any upfront publishing fees. Lulu only charges for additional services, such as cover design, editing, or enhanced global distribution. When it comes to profits, Lulu takes no upfront commission, but authors must account for printing costs. Lulu’s royalty structure allows authors to retain 80% of print sales and 90% for eBooks, which is considerably higher than most traditional publishing deals. This makes Lulu more affordable for those seeking to minimize upfront expenses while still maximizing potential profits.
Value For Money
Lulu is more budget-friendly, offering flexibility for authors who want to self-publish without incurring large upfront costs. However, it requires authors to handle many production tasks on their own or outsource them separately.
IngramSpark, while more expensive upfront, offers higher-quality printing and a more comprehensive distribution network, potentially justifying the additional costs for authors seeking a more professional presentation and wider market reach.
Publishing Timeline
When it comes to publishing timelines, both platforms offer relatively quick turnaround times, but there are some differences to consider.
The publishing process with IngramSpark typically takes 6-8 weeks for full global distribution approval. This includes time for manuscript review and any corrections that may be needed. Authors should ensure their files are polished and correctly formatted to avoid delays.
Lulu’s process can be slightly faster, depending on the author’s readiness and formatting accuracy. Once a book is approved, it can go live for distribution in as little as 2-4 weeks. However, delays may occur if there are issues with the manuscript or cover design.
Both platforms depend on the author’s attention to detail in the submission process to ensure timely publication.
Marketing Services
When it comes to marketing support, both IngramSpark and Lulu Publishing fall short in offering comprehensive services, leaving much of the promotional work to the authors. However, there are slight differences in the tools and approaches each platform provides.
- IngramSpark:
IngramSpark focuses almost entirely on distribution, offering no direct marketing services. Authors must rely on external resources to promote their books, though IngramSpark does offer detailed sales reporting tools. These tools help authors track their book’s performance, which can be useful for adjusting marketing strategies over time. However, without any built-in marketing support, authors need to be proactive in creating and executing their promotional campaigns. - Lulu Publishing:
Like IngramSpark, Lulu provides limited marketing tools, but it does offer some basic features, such as listing books on the Lulu Bookstore and optional global distribution. While still minimal, Lulu’s offerings provide slightly more visibility through their own platform. However, for authors looking for extensive marketing services, Lulu falls short, much like IngramSpark.
Overall, while neither platform offers substantial marketing support, Lulu provides slightly more visibility through its own bookstore, whereas IngramSpark provides more robust sales tracking tools for authors to monitor their progress.
Print-On-Demand (POD) & Distribution
Both IngramSpark and Lulu Publishing excel in print-on-demand (POD) services and distribution, but they differ in the breadth and reach of their networks.
IngramSpark is renowned for its extensive distribution network, reaching over 40,000 retailers, libraries, and online platforms worldwide, including major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books. This broad reach makes it ideal for authors seeking global distribution in both digital and physical stores. IngramSpark also offers a wide range of POD options, including hardcover, paperback, and color printing, providing high-quality professional print services.
Lulu Publishing also offers robust POD services, with flexible options for hardcovers, paperbacks, and eBooks. However, its distribution reach is more focused on online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, with a more limited presence in physical bookstores. Lulu’s global distribution allows authors to sell their books worldwide, but it doesn’t match the depth of IngramSpark’s extensive retail partnerships.
In summary, IngramSpark offers a more comprehensive distribution network with higher-quality POD options, making it ideal for authors seeking wide visibility across both physical and online stores. Lulu, while still a strong contender, is more focused on online distribution and offers slightly fewer retail opportunities.
Support Services
IngramSpark provides email, phone, and chat support, but many users have reported delays in receiving assistance, especially during high-demand periods. Additionally, navigating the platform’s complexity can be challenging for first-time users, making the limited customer service a potential drawback for new authors.
Lulu offers a more user-friendly service and customer support via email and chat, along with extensive help articles and video tutorials. While the support is also limited in scope, Lulu’s simpler interface and resources can make the self-publishing process easier to manage for beginners.
Customer Experience and Reviews
Customer experiences for IngramSpark and Lulu Publishing reveal mixed feedback, with both platforms receiving praise for their services but also encountering notable complaints.
IngramSpark holds a Trustpilot rating of 3 stars, with frequent criticisms focused on customer support issues and the platform’s complexity, especially for beginners. Many users have reported difficulties navigating the platform and experiencing delays in getting assistance. However, IngramSpark is often praised for its extensive distribution network and the professional quality of its print-on-demand services, which are seen as a major benefit for experienced authors looking for global reach.
Lulu Publishing fares better in customer reviews, with a Trustpilot rating of 3.9 stars. Users appreciate the platform’s affordability, ease of use, and the higher royalty rates. However, common complaints include inconsistent print quality and hidden fees. Despite these issues, many authors find Lulu to be more beginner-friendly, thanks to its straightforward interface and free publishing tools, making it a popular choice for independent authors who are just starting out.
IngramSpark or Lulu Publishing: Which is Right for You?
Deciding between IngramSpark and Lulu Publishing comes down to your specific publishing needs, experience, and priorities as an author.
Choose IngramSpark if…you’re an author looking for professional-grade print-on-demand services and extensive global distribution. IngramSpark’s vast network of 40,000+ retailers and libraries makes it ideal for authors seeking maximum visibility in both physical and online markets. However, its steep learning curve and upfront costs make it better suited for experienced authors or small publishers who can navigate the complexities of self-publishing.
Choose Lulu Publishing if… you’re a first-time author or someone looking for an affordable, user-friendly platform. Lulu offers free basic services, higher royalty rates, and easy access to global online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, making it a good choice for authors who want to retain control over their publishing process with minimal upfront investment. While Lulu doesn’t provide extensive marketing or physical bookstore distribution, its simplicity and affordability are key advantages for independent authors on a budget.
In conclusion, IngramSpark is the best option for authors prioritizing professionalism and distribution reach, while Lulu is better suited for those seeking ease of use and lower costs. Consider your publishing goals and level of experience to make the best choice for your book.
Learn More About Lulu
If Lulu Publishing seems like the right platform for your self-publishing journey, visit their website to explore all the tools and services they offer. Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned writer, Lulu can help bring your book to life with ease and affordability. Discover how Lulu Publishing can assist you in turning your manuscript into a published book today.