- Jane Murphy
- 0 min read
Atmosphere Press vs. BookBaby
Table of Contents
The self-publishing industry has provided authors with unparalleled opportunities to take control of their publishing journeys. For independent writers, choosing the right publishing partner can significantly impact the success and reach of their book. Two prominent players in the self-publishing landscape are Atmosphere Press and BookBaby.
Atmosphere Press, a hybrid publisher, prides itself on offering a collaborative and author-friendly experience, allowing writers to retain creative control while benefiting from professional services. BookBaby, on the other hand, is a comprehensive self-publishing platform that equips authors with the tools and distribution channels needed to publish and market their books.
In this article, we will compare Atmosphere Press and BookBaby across key areas such as pricing, royalties, services, publishing timelines, marketing support, and customer experiences. By highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, we aim to help authors make an informed decision about which publisher aligns best with their goals.
Key Differences Between Atmosphere Press and BookBaby
- Publishing Model and Creative Control
Atmosphere Press operates as a hybrid publisher, focusing on a collaborative, author-centric approach where writers retain creative control and ownership of their work. In contrast, BookBaby follows a self-publishing model, offering complete publishing solutions with a more standardized process that may limit personalization. - Royalties and Rights
Atmosphere Press allows authors to retain 90% of their royalties while keeping all rights to their work. BookBaby, however, stands out by letting authors keep 100% of their royalties, though some distribution fees may apply. - Pricing and Included Services
Atmosphere Press offers customized pricing, typically starting at $5,000, with the flexibility to add services as needed. BookBaby provides fixed packages starting at $1,090, but essential services like editing and marketing are excluded from basic plans, making these a significant additional cost.
| FEATURE |  |  |
| ⭐ Customer Experience | 4.7 stars | 4.5 stars |
| 💸 Affordability | Custom pricing starts at around $5,000; it offers flexible services but is expensive for full packages. | Packages start at $1,090, but essential services like editing and marketing cost extra. |
| 💰Royalties | Authors retain 90% royalties and full rights to their work. | Authors keep 100% royalties, minus small distribution fees. |
| ⏳Production Speed | 4–8 months, depending on the services selected | 8 weeks on average, but delays are reported in reviews. |
| 🏢 Marketing Services | Add-on marketing packages ($1,000–$5,000); limited marketing included in standard services. | Marketing is only in the Deluxe Package ($2,890+) or as an add-on. |
| 🌎 Distribution | Print-on-demand with global reach via major retailers and independent bookstore databases. | 60+ distribution channels, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and niche platforms. |
| 🧑💻 Support | Dedicated project managers; praised for a collaborative process but mixed reviews on communication. | Support from publishing specialists and production managers is inconsistent based on reviews. |
| 📚Formats | Offers print (POD), eBook, and audiobook production (add-on). | Print, eBook, and print-on-demand; audiobook services not offered. |
| 💎 Transparency | Transparent about royalties and services; pricing is customized and can feel unclear. | Fixed packages but hidden costs for editing, marketing, and printing. |
Overview of Atmosphere Press
Founded in 2015 by Dr. Nick Courtright, Atmosphere Press is a hybrid publisher based in Austin, Texas, known for its author-friendly approach and commitment to transparency. With a mission rooted in honesty, professionalism, and kindness, the company offers a unique blend of creative control and expert guidance, making it an appealing choice for writers seeking more autonomy than traditional publishing allows.
Atmosphere Press caters to authors across genres who value collaboration throughout the publishing process. Their comprehensive services include developmental editing, custom cover design, manuscript reviews, audiobook production, and marketing support. Authors retain 90% of their royalties and maintain full rights to their work, a significant draw for those looking to maximize creative and financial control.
While Atmosphere Press excels in professional publishing and global distribution through a print-on-demand model, it does have some drawbacks. Marketing support is not included in standard packages and comes at a high additional cost, with packages starting at $1,000. Additionally, its starting prices, typically around $5,000, may be prohibitive for some authors.
Overall, Atmosphere Press is best suited for authors willing to invest in high-quality, customizable services and who prioritize retaining ownership and rights to their work. However, authors seeking lower upfront costs or comprehensive marketing within base packages may find other publishers more aligned with their needs.
Key Features of Atmosphere Press
- Hybrid Publishing Model: Offers a collaborative, author-centric approach that combines creative control with professional support.
- High Royalty Retention: Authors retain 90% of their royalties and maintain full rights to their work.
- Comprehensive Services: Includes developmental editing, manuscript review, custom cover design, interior formatting, and audiobook production.
- Custom Pricing: Tailored pricing based on author needs, typically around $5,000 or less.
- Global Distribution: Utilizes a print-on-demand model for worldwide availability through major online retailers and independent bookstore databases.
- Marketing Support: Available as an add-on, with packages ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for publicity, advertising, and strategy sessions.
- Collaborative Process: Authors have creative control and the ability to veto content decisions during the publishing process.
- Transparency and Professionalism: Known for a transparent publishing model and ethical practices, emphasizing author satisfaction.
- POD and Ebook Formats: Offers both print-on-demand and eBook production, catering to various market demands.
- Selective Manuscript Acceptance: Reviews manuscripts to ensure quality and alignment with their publishing standards.
Atmosphere Press: Does Not Offer
- Traditional Publishing Model: Authors must pay upfront for services instead of receiving advances or publisher-covered costs.
- Comprehensive Marketing in Standard Packages: Marketing support is not included in basic publishing services and requires purchasing additional packages.
- Editing in Base Packages: Developmental editing, copyediting, and proofreading are available but come at an extra cost.
- Copyright Registration: Authors are responsible for securing their own copyright protection.
- Guaranteed Bookstore Placement: While books are distributed globally, physical placement in bookstores is not guaranteed.
- Warehousing: Relies on a print-on-demand model, meaning no large-scale inventory or warehousing is available.
- Low-Cost Options: Starting prices around $5,000 may be out of reach for budget-conscious authors.
- Pre-defined Packages: Services are customized rather than offered in fixed, all-inclusive bundles.
- Literary Agent Services: Does not offer support for securing literary agents or pursuing traditional publishing routes.
Overview of BookBaby
Founded in 2011, BookBaby is a well-established self-publishing platform known for its comprehensive “one-stop shop” approach to publishing. Catering to independent authors, BookBaby simplifies the publishing process by offering a wide range of services, including editing, formatting, cover design, eBook and print book production, and distribution to over 60 channels, such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart.
BookBaby’s standout feature is its 100% royalty retention model, which allows authors to keep all earnings from book sales after distribution fees. They also provide in-house printing and flexible print-on-demand (POD) options, ensuring quality and efficiency for authors who need physical copies of their work.
However, BookBaby’s affordability can be a concern for authors. While their packages start at $1,090, essential services like editing, proofreading, and marketing are not included and must be purchased separately. These additional costs can escalate significantly, with editing alone ranging from $900 to $3,000 for a standard manuscript.
While BookBaby excels in ease of use and broad distribution, its limitations include the lack of marketing in basic packages and a minimum print quantity of 25 books. Authors seeking a highly customized or collaborative process may find its standardized packages less flexible. BookBaby is ideal for those prioritizing wide reach and straightforward publishing solutions.
Key Features of BookBaby
- Comprehensive Self-Publishing Services: Offers a full range of services, including manuscript preparation, editing, formatting, cover design, and distribution.
- 100% Royalty Retention: Authors keep all net earnings from book sales, minus any applicable distribution fees.
- Wide Distribution Network: Partners with over 60 channels, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Walmart, and niche platforms.
- In-House Printing: Provides high-quality printing with flexible print-on-demand (POD) options and customizable formats.
- Package Variety: Offers three main packages (Express, Complete, and Deluxe) starting at $1,090 to meet varying author needs.
- Marketing Services: Includes social media ad management and metadata optimization in the Deluxe Package ($2,890+) or as add-ons.
- Editing Services: Offers proofreading, copy editing, and line editing at additional costs, ranging from $3–$10 per page.
- Dedicated Support: Authors receive guidance from publishing specialists and production managers throughout the process.
- Formats Offered: Supports both eBook and print book production; print formats include various trim sizes, paper types, and finishes.
- Flexible Payouts: Authors can withdraw royalties anytime, with no minimum threshold.
BookBaby: Does Not Offer
- Editing in Standard Packages: Proofreading, copy editing, and line editing must be purchased separately, adding significant costs.
- Comprehensive Marketing in All Packages: Marketing is only included in the Deluxe Package ($2,890+) or as a costly add-on.
- Copyright Registration: Authors must handle their own copyright protection independently.
- Guaranteed Bookstore Placement: While books are widely distributed online, physical bookstore placement is not guaranteed.
- Customizable Publishing Models: BookBaby’s packages are pre-defined and less flexible compared to customizable publishing services.
- Advances or Shared Financial Risk: As a self-publishing platform, all costs are borne by the author upfront.
- Audiobook Production: Does not offer services for creating or distributing audiobooks.
- Large Quantities of Print Copies in Packages: Only includes 25 softcover books per package; additional copies must be ordered at extra cost.
- Hybrid or Collaborative Publishing Options: Focuses on standardized self-publishing solutions rather than offering collaborative, author-driven models.
- Manuscript Screening: Accepts all submissions without a quality evaluation or selectivity process.
Comparing Affordability and Costs
When comparing affordability, Atmosphere Press and BookBaby take different approaches that cater to distinct author needs and budgets.
Atmosphere Press offers customized pricing, typically starting around $5,000, making it a significant investment upfront. While this bespoke model allows authors to pay only for the services they need, the lack of fixed, entry-level packages means it may not be accessible for budget-conscious authors. Additional services like marketing ($1,000–$5,000) and editing are also paid separately.
BookBaby, in contrast, provides pre-defined packages starting at $1,090 for the Express Package, which covers the basics like eBook conversion and distribution. However, essential services such as editing ($900–$3,000) and marketing are not included in lower-tier plans and must be added at extra cost. The Deluxe Package ($2,890) offers a more comprehensive solution but can still leave some authors needing additional paid services.
While BookBaby appears more affordable initially, the cost of add-ons can quickly escalate, especially for editing and marketing. Atmosphere Press may be costlier overall, but it provides tailored, professional services with a focus on quality and collaboration.
For authors on a strict budget, BookBaby may be the better choice. However, those looking for personalized, high-touch publishing services might find Atmosphere Press worth the higher investment.
Publishing Timelines
The publishing timelines for Atmosphere Press and BookBaby differ in duration and flexibility, reflecting their distinct approaches to the publishing process.
Atmosphere Press typically operates on a 4–8 month timeline, depending on the complexity of the project and the services selected. This relatively moderate timeline includes stages like editing, design, and distribution setup. Their collaborative approach, which involves extensive back-and-forth communication with authors, can contribute to a longer process but ensures a higher level of customization and quality.
BookBaby, on the other hand, advertises an average timeline of 8 weeks, making it a faster option for authors eager to publish quickly. However, customer reviews indicate that delays are not uncommon, with timelines often stretching longer than advertised. Factors such as the inclusion of additional services like editing or formatting and potential communication lapses with their team can extend the process.
In summary, Atmosphere Press offers a more thorough and collaborative process that may take longer but results in a tailored final product. BookBaby, while faster on paper, may experience delays, particularly when add-ons are involved. Authors seeking speed might prefer BookBaby, while those prioritizing a carefully curated publishing experience may find Atmosphere Press worth the extra time.
Royalties
The royalty structures of Atmosphere Press and BookBaby are author-friendly but differ in terms of percentage retention, payout methods, and ease of access.
Atmosphere Press allows authors to retain 90% of their royalties, which is notably higher than what traditional publishers offer. Authors maintain full rights to their work, giving them creative and financial control. While Atmosphere Press emphasizes transparency, some authors have noted challenges in receiving detailed royalty reports, which could make tracking sales more cumbersome.
BookBaby, on the other hand, stands out by letting authors keep 100% of their royalties from book sales, minus any applicable distribution fees. This full-retention model is appealing to those prioritizing maximum profit. Royalty payouts are flexible, allowing authors to withdraw earnings whenever they wish, without minimum thresholds. Additionally, BookBaby offers scheduled payouts, providing convenience and financial predictability.
Comparison:
- Percentage Retained: BookBaby’s 100% royalty retention edges out Atmosphere Press’s 90%, though both are significantly more generous than traditional publishing.
- Payout Timing: BookBaby provides more flexibility with on-demand payouts, while Atmosphere Press’s payout structure and timing are less clearly defined.
- Ease of Access: BookBaby’s royalty system is simpler and more accessible for authors to manage, giving it an advantage for those who value straightforward payments.
In conclusion, authors seeking maximum earnings and easy access to royalties may prefer BookBaby, while those prioritizing a collaborative publishing experience and rights retention may find Atmosphere Press’s structure sufficient.
Marketing Services
Marketing is one of the most challenging aspects of self-publishing, and both Atmosphere Press and BookBaby provide options for authors, but their approaches differ in comprehensiveness, inclusion, and cost.
Atmosphere Press
Atmosphere Press offers marketing support as an add-on service, but it is not included in their standard publishing packages. Their “Book Boost Publicity and Promotion” packages range from $1,000 to $5,000 and include targeted advertising, review acquisition, and assistance with media outreach. They also provide resources like a database of independent bookstores and a 35-page marketing tutorial to help authors craft grassroots strategies.
While these services are professional, they require significant financial investment, and authors are expected to take an active role in marketing efforts. For some, this might feel daunting as Atmosphere’s support doesn’t cover all aspects of book promotion.
BookBaby
BookBaby includes marketing services only in its Deluxe Package ($2,890) or as a separate add-on. These services include metadata optimization, social media ad management, and strategies for increasing visibility on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. However, authors must fund the actual advertising budget separately, which can drive up costs.
For authors on other packages (Express or Complete), no marketing is included, making it necessary to purchase additional services. While BookBaby’s options help streamline marketing for authors, they can become expensive, and success depends on the author’s willingness to invest heavily.
Comparison
- Included in Packages: Atmosphere Press does not include marketing in any package; BookBaby only includes it in the Deluxe Package.
- Cost: Atmosphere’s marketing starts at $1,000, while BookBaby’s Deluxe Package costs $2,890 but still requires additional ad budgets.
- Ease of Use: Both companies provide tools and strategies, but authors must play an active role in execution, particularly with Atmosphere Press.
In conclusion, both publishers offer marketing support but require significant additional costs. Atmosphere Press provides more flexibility with modular add-ons, while BookBaby bundles basic marketing into higher-tier packages. Authors should be prepared to invest time and money into marketing, as neither platform fully handles this crucial aspect.
POD and Distribution
Distribution and print-on-demand (POD) services are crucial for self-publishing, ensuring books are accessible to readers globally. Here’s how Atmosphere Press and BookBaby compare in these areas:
Atmosphere Press
- Distribution Options: Atmosphere Press distributes books globally through major online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. They also provide authors access to a database of independent bookstores for expanded reach.
- Included in Payment: Distribution services are part of their standard publishing package, with no extra fees beyond the upfront publishing cost.
- POD Services: Atmosphere relies on a print-on-demand model, meaning books are printed only when ordered. This eliminates warehousing costs and reduces financial risk for authors.
- Focus: While Atmosphere provides solid distribution, its primary strength lies in its publishing services rather than excelling solely in distribution.
BookBaby
- Distribution Options: BookBaby offers one of the widest networks, with books distributed to 60+ retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Walmart, and several niche platforms. They also distribute eBooks to platforms like Apple Books and Google Play Books.
- Included in Payment: Distribution is included in all BookBaby packages, even the entry-level Express Package ($1,090). However, any distribution fees for specific platforms are deducted from sales royalties.
- POD Services: BookBaby operates on a print-on-demand model and offers in-house printing for physical copies. Authors can order additional print runs, but packages include only 25 softcover books, with extra copies incurring significant costs.
- Focus: Distribution and POD are where BookBaby shines. Their in-house printing capabilities and extensive network give authors maximum reach and flexibility.
Comparison
- Scope of Distribution: BookBaby’s network is broader, with 60+ channels compared to Atmosphere’s focus on major retailers and independent bookstores.
- Inclusion in Payment: Both include distribution in their initial payment, but Atmosphere emphasizes quality publishing services, while BookBaby places more focus on distribution.
- POD Model: Both rely on print-on-demand, but BookBaby also provides in-house printing with customizable options, making it a standout for authors needing physical copies.
In conclusion, if distribution reach and POD options are your primary concerns, BookBaby has the edge due to its broader network and in-house printing capabilities. However, Atmosphere Press delivers strong distribution as part of its collaborative publishing process, making it ideal for authors focused on overall publishing quality.
Support Services
Atmosphere Press provides authors with a dedicated project manager who guides them through each stage of the publishing process. From editing to design and distribution, authors receive one-on-one support, ensuring that their creative vision is respected and implemented. The collaborative nature of Atmosphere’s process allows authors to retain creative control, with final say on all content decisions. While the company is praised for its professionalism and transparency, some reviews mention occasional lapses in communication, particularly regarding follow-ups for additional services like marketing.
BookBaby also offers robust support through its team of publishing specialists. These specialists assist authors during the submission and production stages, providing clarity and guidance as the book moves through each phase. For more complex projects, authors are assigned production managers for additional oversight. However, BookBaby’s support tends to be more structured and standardized, aligning with its pre-defined package model. While many authors find this process efficient, others have reported delays in communication or slow responses when resolving issues.
In comparison, Atmosphere Press stands out for its personalized, hands-on support tailored to individual author needs, which is ideal for those seeking a collaborative publishing experience. BookBaby’s support is more streamlined, making it better suited for authors who prefer a straightforward, efficient process but may require less direct involvement.
Customer Experience and Reviews
Both Atmosphere Press and BookBaby are generally well-regarded by authors, though their customer experiences reveal key differences in strengths and areas for improvement.
Atmosphere Press holds a solid reputation, with a 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot. Authors frequently praise the professionalism, transparency, and kindness of the Atmosphere team. Many appreciate the collaborative nature of their publishing process, emphasizing the level of creative control they retain. However, not all experiences are perfect. Some authors express concerns about the quality of certain services, particularly marketing and website support, which are offered as costly add-ons. A few reviews also mention occasional lapses in communication or delays in receiving clear royalty reports.
BookBaby has an equally strong reputation, earning a 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot. Customers often highlight the platform’s ease of use and the convenience of having all services—editing, formatting, printing, and distribution—in one place. Authors also value the extensive distribution network and the flexibility of royalty payouts. Despite this, some reviews point out challenges such as high costs for additional services, delays in project timelines, and lapses in customer communication.
In summary, Atmosphere Press is favored for its collaborative and author-first approach, while BookBaby is praised for its convenience and distribution capabilities. Both companies have positive overall ratings but also face occasional criticism related to delays and service quality.
Atmosphere Press 1 vs. BookBaby: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between Atmosphere Press and BookBaby depends on your publishing priorities, budget, and desired level of involvement in the process.
Atmosphere Press is best suited for authors who value a collaborative and customizable publishing experience. With its hybrid publishing model, authors retain 90% of royalties, maintain full rights, and work closely with a dedicated project manager. Atmosphere excels in providing professional services like editing, cover design, and audiobook production, making it ideal for those seeking a tailored approach. However, its pricing, which starts around $5,000, and the lack of included marketing services may deter budget-conscious authors or those seeking all-in-one solutions.
BookBaby, by contrast, offers a more standardized and streamlined self-publishing model. Its pre-defined packages, starting at $1,090, include essential services like eBook conversion and distribution to over 60 retailers. BookBaby’s 100% royalty retention and flexible payout system are appealing to authors who prioritize maximizing earnings. However, additional costs for editing, marketing, and printing can escalate quickly, and the process is less collaborative than Atmosphere’s, catering more to authors who prefer straightforward solutions over customization.
Ultimately, choose Atmosphere Press if you want a hands-on, personalized experience with professional guidance and are willing to invest more upfront. Opt for BookBaby if you need a simpler, more affordable entry point into self-publishing with extensive distribution options.
For more information about their services, readers can visit their respective websites, or read our in depth reviews on BookBaby and Atmosphere Press.