- Clara Barr
- 0 min read
Scribe vs IngramSpark
Table of Contents
Selecting the right publishing platform is a pivotal step that can make or break your book’s success. IngramSpark and Scribe Media are two leading contenders, each designed with distinct authors in mind and offering specialized services.
Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned professional aiming for a polished, high-quality book, this guide will walk you through the critical differences between these platforms, helping you make the best choice for your publishing journey.
Key Differences Between IngramSpark and Scribe Media
- Service Level: IngramSpark operates as a self-service platform, focusing on printing and distribution. Scribe Media offers a comprehensive, full-service experience, managing everything from ghostwriting to marketing.
- Cost: IngramSpark is budget-friendly, with publishing fees around $49. In contrast, Scribe Media’s services start at $26,000, reflecting its high-quality, personalized support.
- Focus: IngramSpark caters to various genres, including fiction and non-fiction, while Scribe Media specializes exclusively in non-fiction, targeting professionals and thought leaders.
| FEATURE |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Customer Experience | Highly Rated | 4.6 on Trustpilot |
| 💸 Affordability | Packages starting from $26,000 | Publishing fees starting at $25 for eBooks, $49 for print |
| 📚 Primary Service | Comprehensive, All-Inclusive Packages | Print-on-Demand |
| ⏳Production Speed | 9 Months | Allows authors to publish as quickly as possible |
| 🏢 Marketing Services | Comprehensive services | Limited (authors must handle their own marketing) |
| 🌎 POD & Distribution | Extensive distribution | 40,000+ Retailers and Libraries Worldwide |
| 🧑💻 Support | Dedicated Publishing Managers | Phone, Email, and Chat Support (mixed reviews) |
| 👍 Ideal For | Professionals & authors with a high budget | Authors looking for distribution services |
Overview of Scribe Media
Founded in 2014 by best-selling author Tucker Max, Scribe Media has quickly established itself as a premier professional book publishing service, particularly popular among entrepreneurs, consultants, executives, and other professionals. Scribe Media’s mission is to provide high-quality publishing services that ensure an author’s book achieves maximum reach and impact.
Scribe Media offers a comprehensive range of services, including writing, editing, design, publishing, and marketing. These services are tailored for authors with completed manuscripts who seek to publish their books professionally. Known for its commitment to quality and professionalism, Scribe Media is a preferred option if you have a high budget and are aiming for a polished and impactful book.
However, this level of service comes at a high cost, with packages starting at $26,000. Additionally, Scribe Media’s services are exclusively available for non-fiction books, catering primarily to professionals and thought leaders. The premium pricing of Scribe Media is largely attributed to the detailed attention and personalized support they provide.
Scribe – Key Features
Scribe Media focuses on providing end-to-end publishing services, ensuring every aspect of the publishing process is covered.
- Dedicated Support: Comprehensive support throughout the publishing process, with each package including a publishing manager.
- High Quality: Professional writing, editing, and design services from experienced industry experts.
- Comprehensive Publishing Services: Including ghostwriting, editing, cover design, marketing, and audiobook creation.
- 100% Royalties: Authors retain all royalties from their book sales.
Does Not Offer
- Fiction Publishing: Exclusively publishes non-fiction books.
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.
IngramSpark – Key Features
- 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.
Comparing Pricing & Affordability
When it comes to affordability, IngramSpark and Scribe Media offer distinctly different pricing structures that cater to various author needs.
On the other hand, Scribe Media operates at a premium price point, with packages starting at $26,000 and reaching upwards of $48,000, depending on the level of service. This investment covers a comprehensive suite of services, including ghostwriting, professional editing, design, and marketing. While Scribe Media offers an extensive and personalized publishing experience, the costs can be prohibitive for many authors, particularly those on a tight budget or who are just starting out.
IngramSpark provides a cost-effective option for self-published authors and small publishers. Their upfront publishing fees are relatively low—$49 for both print and eBook formats and $25 for eBook-only publishing. Additionally, authors have control over printing costs through their print-on-demand model, allowing for greater flexibility in budgeting. While there are potential costs associated with ISBNs and distribution fees, many authors find IngramSpark’s overall financial commitment manageable.
In summary, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly self-publishing option, IngramSpark may be the better choice. However, if you’re seeking a full-service experience and have the budget to invest, Scribe Media could provide the high-quality support needed to elevate your book’s market presence.
Publishing Timelines
Scribe Media typically takes 6 to 9 months to publish a book, reflecting their meticulous and comprehensive approach to ensure high-quality results. This timeline stands out as much longer than that of other self-publishing companies.
IngramSpark offers more flexibility with its print-on-demand model, allowing authors to publish books as quickly as they can prepare them. However, the responsibility falls entirely on the author to manage the timeline, which can vary based on how quickly they can handle the book’s production and distribution logistics.
Royalties
Scribe Media: Authors retain 100% of their royalties with Scribe Media. This means you keep all profits from book sales, whether through ebooks, paperbacks, or hardcovers. While Scribe doesn’t take a percentage of your earnings, be mindful of any distribution fees that platforms like Amazon may charge, which are deducted from sales revenue.
IngramSpark, on the other hand, operates on a more complex royalty structure. The royalties an author receives depend on several factors, including the wholesale discount set for retailers and the cost of printing each book. After these costs are deducted, the remaining amount is what the author earns. While this allows for some flexibility in setting prices and discounts, it also means that the author’s take-home pay can vary significantly, depending on the choices they make regarding pricing and distribution strategies.
In conclusion, if maximizing earnings from book sales is a priority, Scribe Media’s model may be more appealing. However, if you’re seeking broader distribution options and are comfortable with a traditional royalty structure, IngramSpark could still be a viable choice.
Marketing Services
Scribe Media provides robust marketing and promotional support as part of their comprehensive publishing packages. Their services include strategic marketing plans, social media promotions, targeted advertising campaigns, and broad distribution to major online and physical bookstores. While these high-end services are designed to ensure maximum reach and impact, they come at a premium price that may not be feasible for all authors.
In contrast, IngramSpark does not offer direct marketing services, leaving authors to manage their own marketing efforts. Although IngramSpark boasts an extensive distribution network, the lack of marketing support can make it challenging for authors to boost visibility and drive sales independently.
Overall, Scribe Media offers a more integrated and comprehensive marketing service, whereas IngramSpark falls short in providing extensive marketing support.
POD & Distribution
Scribe Media offers extensive print-on-demand (POD) and distribution services, managing both ebook and print book production. They ensure that manuscripts are converted into various formats suitable for different platforms. Their distribution network includes major online retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books, facilitated through partnerships with IngramSpark, which ensures global availability.
On the other hand, IngramSpark is a leader in the POD and distribution space, boasting an extensive network that reaches over 40,000 retailers and libraries worldwide. This vast reach guarantees that books published through IngramSpark are widely available, both online and in physical stores. Additionally, IngramSpark’s flexible POD services allow authors to print in various formats, including hardcovers, paperbacks, and eBooks, catering to diverse market demands without the need for large upfront print runs or inventory management.
Choosing Between IngramSpark or Scribe Media: Which is Right for You?
Choose IngramSpark if…
You’re a self-published author who values broad distribution, print-on-demand services, and low upfront costs. This option is ideal if you’re willing to manage parts of the publishing process yourself or hire freelancers for tasks like editing and design. IngramSpark offers affordable, flexible publishing with global reach, making it great for hands-on authors seeking to maintain control over their publishing journey.
Choose Scribe Media if…
You’re a professional or thought leader looking to publish a high-quality, non-fiction book and are willing to invest in top-tier services. Scribe’s comprehensive, hands-on support and professional production standards make it perfect for those aiming for a polished, market-ready book that stands out in a competitive market.
Both IngramSpark and Scribe Media have their unique strengths, and the best choice ultimately depends on your needs, budget, and the type of book you’re publishing. IngramSpark provides a DIY approach with extensive distribution options, while Scribe Media offers an all-inclusive, high-end service tailored for professionals looking to publish impactful non-fiction works.
Consider what level of support you need, how much you’re willing to invest, and your publishing goals. Whether you prefer the independent route with IngramSpark or the comprehensive guidance of Scribe Media, understanding these differences will help you choose the path that’s best for your book.
Learn More About Scribe
If Scribe sounds like a good option for your publishing needs, visit their website to explore their high-quality publishing services. Discover how Scribe can transform your book into a professionally published masterpiece, offering premium services for authors who value excellence.