Best Sites To Sell eBooks
Best Sites To Sell eBooks
The digital publishing world has transformed the way authors, entrepreneurs, and educators reach their audience.
Selling eBooks online has become one of the most profitable ways to share knowledge, build authority, and create a steady stream of income.
This guide explores the best eBook selling platforms, highlighting how their uploading systems work, their monthly visitors, and the potential revenue opportunities they offer.
If you're searching for the best sites to sell eBooks, this comprehensive guide will help you select the perfect platform based on traffic, uploading systems, and revenue potential.
Why Selling eBooks Online Is Profitable
Before diving into the platforms, let’s understand why selling eBooks remains a top digital income stream.
1. Low Production Cost
Once you finish writing an eBook, the expenses are minimal compared to traditional print publishing. You avoid printing, shipping, and storage fees, making it budget-friendly. Digital publishing allows creators to maximize profits while keeping investment costs low.
2. Global Reach
eBook platforms like Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, and Google Play give authors immediate access to readers worldwide.
No matter your location, your work can reach international markets, breaking geographical barriers and building a truly global audience.
3. Passive Income
An eBook can keep generating sales long after it’s published, mainly if marketed well. With minimal ongoing effort, authors can earn passive income for years, making eBooks a sustainable and long-term revenue stream.
4. Flexibility
Publishing eBooks doesn’t tie you to one retailer. You can publish on multiple platforms like Amazon, Kobo, and Gumroad simultaneously.
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This flexibility ensures a broader audience reach while allowing you to experiment with pricing, distribution, and marketing strategies.
5. Scalability
Unlike physical products, scaling eBook sales is easy. Once created, you can sell unlimited copies without additional cost. Expanding your eBook library multiplies revenue potential, helping authors steadily grow income streams with each new title added.
6. Creative Control
Authors have total control over their pricing, marketing tactics, cover art, and content when they self-publish. Unlike traditional publishing houses, you decide how your book is presented and promoted, ensuring your vision stays intact.
7. Eco-Friendly Publishing
Selling eBooks is environmentally friendly since it eliminates the need for paper, ink, and shipping. Digital publishing reduces waste and carbon footprint, making it a greener choice for eco-conscious authors and readers alike.
8. Faster Publishing Timeline
Traditional publishing can take months or even years. With eBooks, authors can write, format, and publish within days or weeks. This speed allows quicker market entry and the ability to respond to trending topics.
9. Direct Audience Connection
Platforms like Payhip and Gumroad let authors sell directly to readers, capturing emails and building loyal communities. This direct connection fosters stronger relationships and enables personalized marketing for repeat sales and long-term engagement.
10. Multiple Monetization Options
Beyond selling standalone eBooks, you can bundle books, offer subscriptions, or upsell related products and services. This versatility allows authors to create layered income streams, increasing revenue potential far beyond one-time book sales.
Best Sites To Sell eBooks
1. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Uploading System
Amazon KDP offers a user-friendly publishing system where authors upload manuscripts in DOCX, MOBI, or EPUB formats. You can set pricing, define sales territories, and distribute globally.
Additionally, enrollment in Kindle Unlimited provides extra earnings through subscription-based reading, increasing reach and revenue opportunities.
Monthly Visitors
Amazon attracts an enormous audience, recording around 4.9 billion monthly visitors worldwide. This traffic makes it the most powerful marketplace for eBooks.
Authors benefit from massive visibility, built-in search demand, and access to millions of readers already searching for new digital books daily.
Potential Revenue
Amazon KDP offers flexible royalty rates of 35% or 70% based on pricing and distribution regions. With effective marketing, many independent authors earn steady four to five-figure monthly incomes. Combined with Kindle Unlimited reads, revenue potential can grow exponentially over time.
Why Choose KDP?
- Largest eBook audience globally
- Strong credibility and trust factor
- Built-in marketing tools like Kindle Countdown Deals
2. Apple Books
Uploading System
Apple Books is one of the best sites to sell eBooks, offering an easy EPUB upload process through iTunes Connect or aggregators like Draft2Digital with flexible pricing and distribution control.
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It accepts EPUB files and provides flexible pricing options. The platform is designed for simplicity, allowing authors to manage distribution, updates, and metadata efficiently.
Monthly Visitors
Apple Books reaches an enormous audience through 1.4 billion active Apple devices worldwide. Integration with iPhones, iPads, and Macs ensures authors can access a global, tech-savvy readership, offering exceptional visibility and the opportunity to connect with premium customers in multiple countries.
Potential Revenue
Authors earn a consistent 70% royalty on sales, without needing to grant exclusivity. Since Apple users often spend more on digital content, especially in premium categories, revenue potential is strong, making it a lucrative option for niche and high-quality eBook offerings.
Why Choose Apple Books?
- Consistent 70% royalty
- Huge built-in iOS user base
- No exclusivity contracts
3. Google Play Books
Uploading System
Google Play Books ranks among the best sites to sell eBooks, providing a straightforward EPUB/PDF upload system and global distribution tools through its user-friendly Partner Center.
The platform offers easy management of pricing, territories, and metadata. Its intuitive interface simplifies global distribution, ensuring authors can efficiently reach readers worldwide.
Monthly Visitors
With over 2.5 billion active Android users, the Google Play Store provides massive exposure. Play Books reaches millions of readers globally, giving authors access to diverse international markets, including regions that may have limited access to Amazon, expanding the potential audience and discoverability.
Potential Revenue
Revenue share depends on the country, but typically offers 70% royalties. With Android’s widespread adoption, authors can tap into markets often underserved by other platforms.
Effective marketing and localized pricing strategies can significantly increase sales and long-term revenue opportunities.
Why Choose Google Play Books?
- Strong international reach
- No exclusivity needed
- Access to Android’s massive user base
4. Smashwords (Now Draft2Digital)
Uploading System
Smashwords streamlines eBook publishing by converting Word documents to EPUB format and distributing them to major platforms like Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Apple Books, and libraries. Draft2Digital enhances this process with improved formatting, making publishing faster, easier, and more professional.
Monthly Visitors
While Smashwords itself attracts around 3 million monthly visitors, its partner distribution network significantly expands reach, potentially connecting authors to tens of millions of readers worldwide. This extended exposure increases visibility and sales opportunities across multiple eBook marketplaces.
Potential Revenue
Authors typically earn 60%–85% royalties depending on the retailer and distribution channel. Smashwords and Draft2Digital provide a convenient way to achieve wide distribution without manually uploading to each platform, maximizing revenue potential and minimizing administrative effort.
Why Choose Smashwords/D2D?
- Multi-platform distribution
- Simple publishing process, suitable for authors targeting libraries.
5. Kobo Writing Life
Uploading System
Kobo Writing Life stands out among the best sites to sell eBooks with its intuitive dashboard for EPUB uploads, global distribution to 190 countries, and powerful marketing tools for authors.
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The platform simplifies metadata management, marketing tools, and updates, making it easy for authors to reach international audiences efficiently.
Monthly Visitors
Rakuten Kobo attracts approximately 15 million monthly visitors, with strong readership in Canada, Europe, and Asia. Its international presence and partnerships ensure authors gain visibility across multiple markets, connecting with diverse readers who may not be reached through other eBook platforms.
Potential Revenue
Authors earn 70% royalties on books priced between $2.99–$9.99. Kobo’s partnerships, including Walmart and library networks, expand distribution channels, increasing potential sales and revenue opportunities for independent authors targeting global markets with both niche and mainstream content.
Why Choose Kobo?
- Strong in international markets
- Partnerships with libraries and retailers
- Easy-to-use publishing tools
6. Barnes & Noble Press
Uploading System
B&N Press allows authors to upload EPUB files directly to the platform. Primarily focused on the Nook eReader, it also distributes eBooks through Barnes & Noble’s online bookstore, offering easy management of pricing, metadata, and book updates for U.S.-based readers.
Monthly Visitors
Barnes & Noble’s website attracts approximately 18 million monthly visitors, positioning it as one of the top book retailers in the U.S.
This substantial web traffic provides independent authors with a dedicated niche audience seeking digital and physical book options.
Potential Revenue
Authors typically earn 65% royalties on most price points. Although smaller than Amazon, B&N Press offers a dedicated, engaged U.S. readership. For niche genres or targeted content, it can provide steady sales and a valuable supplemental revenue stream.
Why Choose B&N Press?
- Focused U.S. audience
- Established bookstore reputation
- Competitive royalty rates
7. Lulu
Uploading System
Lulu is one of the best sites to sell eBooks, offering seamless EPUB uploads and multi-channel distribution to major retailers like Amazon, Apple Books, and Barnes & Noble.
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Authors can upload EPUB files for digital sales and leverage Lulu’s distribution network to reach Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books, making it a versatile platform for multi-channel publishing.
Monthly Visitors
Lulu’s website attracts approximately 2.8 million monthly visitors, with further reach amplified through its partner distribution network.
This combination ensures authors gain visibility to a global audience, including readers who may prefer alternative marketplaces beyond mainstream platforms.
Potential Revenue
Royalties on Lulu vary depending on the retailer. Authors selling directly through Lulu’s storefront often achieve 70%–80% profit margins, making it an attractive option for those seeking high earnings while maintaining control over pricing and customer relationships.
Why Choose Lulu?
- Combines eBook + print options
- Customizable distribution
- Popular for self-publishers and educators
8. Payhip
Uploading System
Payhip earns its place among the best sites to sell eBooks by offering direct uploads, flexible sales options, and complete pricing control through integrated payment solutions.
Integrated with PayPal and Stripe, it provides seamless payment processing while giving authors complete control over pricing, discounts, and promotional campaigns.
Monthly Visitors
Payhip attracts approximately 1.2 million monthly visitors, but its primary advantage lies in direct-to-consumer sales. Authors can leverage personal websites, email lists, and social media to reach readers, bypassing traditional marketplaces and fostering a loyal customer base.
Potential Revenue
Authors retain over 95% of sales revenue, paying only minimal transaction fees. By selling directly to readers and building an audience, authors can scale profits significantly, making Payhip a highly lucrative platform for independent digital product sales.
Why Choose Payhip?
- High revenue share
- Direct-to-reader sales
- Marketing tools like coupons and affiliates
9. Gumroad
Uploading System
Gumroad is a creator-focused platform that makes uploading eBooks simple. Authors can set prices, add detailed descriptions, and sell directly to their audience.
The platform also supports product bundles, pre-orders, and subscription offerings for added marketing flexibility.
Monthly Visitors
Gumroad attracts around 6 million monthly visitors, but the majority of sales rely on authors’ promotion. Leveraging social media, email lists, or personal websites enables creators to reach targeted audiences and drive consistent direct-to-consumer sales efficiently.
Potential Revenue
Authors retain approximately 90% of sales revenue after Gumroad’s transaction fees. Its popularity among indie authors, bloggers, and educators allows for high-margin digital sales, particularly when combined with direct marketing strategies and niche audience targeting.
Why Choose Gumroad?
- Excellent for niche authors
- Direct customer relationship
- Supports subscriptions and bundles
10. Scribd
Uploading System
Scribd collaborates with distributors like Smashwords and Draft2Digital for eBook uploads, so authors usually cannot upload directly unless participating in Scribd’s publishing program.
Scribd joins the best sites to sell eBooks by offering distribution through partners like Smashwords and Draft2Digital, expanding your reach to their subscription-based audience.
Monthly Visitors
Scribd attracts around 80 million monthly visitors worldwide, making it one of the most-read digital subscription services.
Its extensive reach provides authors with massive exposure, connecting books to a large, engaged audience of readers seeking unlimited access to eBooks and audiobooks.
Potential Revenue
Royalties on Scribd vary as authors are paid per-read, similar to Kindle Unlimited. While this revenue model is less predictable than per-sale royalties, the platform’s vast audience can generate significant exposure and long-term income opportunities for participating authors.
Why Choose Scribd?
- Subscription-based readership
- Massive monthly traffic
- Strong global audience
11. BookBaby
Uploading System
BookBaby allows authors to upload eBooks in EPUB or PDF formats. The platform handles distribution to major retailers like Amazon, Apple Books, and Barnes & Noble, and offers optional formatting and design services to streamline publishing.
Monthly Visitors
While exact visitor numbers vary, BookBaby distributes to millions of readers globally through its retail partners, providing authors with broad exposure across multiple eBook marketplaces and increasing potential discoverability.
Potential Revenue
Authors retain a significant portion of royalties, which vary depending on the retailer and services chosen. BookBaby also offers professional publishing packages, allowing authors to maximize revenue while ensuring a polished, professional final product.
Why Choose BookBaby?
- Comprehensive support for both eBook and print publishing
- Wide distribution to major retailers and global markets
- Optional services like editing, design, and marketing for professional-quality books
Common Errors To Steer Clear Of When Selling eBooks Online
To maximize your success when using the best sites to sell eBooks, it's crucial to avoid common mistakes that could hurt your sales and author reputation. Being aware of these pitfalls will help you create a more professional, appealing, and profitable eBook business.
1. Poor Quality Content
One of the most critical mistakes is publishing content that isn’t thoroughly researched, edited, or valuable. Readers expect high-quality, actionable, and engaging content.
Typos, inconsistencies, and shallow information can harm your reputation and lead to negative reviews. Always invest time in proofreading, fact-checking, and formatting for clarity.
2. Ignoring The Target Audience
Many sellers overlook understanding their ideal reader. Without knowing your audience’s needs, interests, and pain points, your eBook may not resonate, resulting in low engagement and poor sales. Conduct surveys, read reviews of similar eBooks, and craft content specifically for your target demographic.
3. Weak Cover Design
First impressions matter. A bland or amateur-looking cover can deter potential buyers, even if the content is excellent. Investing in a professional, eye-catching design that reflects your book’s theme and genre is crucial. Your cover should convey the book’s value and attract clicks.
4. Neglecting Formatting And Layout
Formatting issues, such as poor spacing, inconsistent fonts, or unreadable layouts, can frustrate readers. eBooks should be optimized for various devices like Kindle, tablets, and smartphones. Using professional tools or hiring a formatter ensures your eBook is visually appealing and easy to read.
5. Improper Pricing Strategy
Pricing too high or too low can negatively impact sales. Overpricing can discourage potential buyers, while underpricing may undervalue your work.
Research competitors, understand perceived value, and consider introductory pricing or promotions to attract early readers.
6. Lack Of Marketing Plan
Many authors assume that publishing alone guarantees sales. Without a strong marketing strategy—like social media promotion, email marketing, influencer collaborations, or blog content—your eBook may remain undiscovered. Create a clear plan to reach and engage your target audience.
7. Ignoring Reviews And Feedback
Feedback is a valuable tool for improvement. Failing to respond to constructive criticism or ignoring reviews can harm your credibility. Engage with readers, learn from their insights, and update your eBook when necessary to enhance value.
8. Overlooking Metadata And SEO
Search optimization is often neglected. Using appropriate titles, keywords, and descriptions makes your eBook more visible in search results on sites like Google and Amazon. Metadata ensures that readers can find your book and understand its content quickly.
9. Skipping Legal Considerations
Legal problems may arise if copyrighted material, photos, or other content is used without authorization. Ensure your eBook complies with copyright laws, licensing rules, and platform policies to avoid fines or removal from sales platforms.
10. Failing To Build An Author Brand
Authors who focus only on one eBook without establishing credibility or a brand often struggle long-term. Engage with your audience, build an email list, and maintain a consistent presence to create trust and encourage repeat sales.
Conclusion
Selling eBooks online offers incredible opportunities for authors to reach global audiences, earn passive income, and maintain creative control.
For authors seeking worldwide reach and passive income, choosing from the best sites to sell eBooks—like Amazon KDP, Apple Books, or Payhip—can make all the difference in maximizing your sales and audience engagement.
By understanding each site’s uploading system, traffic potential, and revenue model, authors can maximize exposure and profits while avoiding common pitfalls. Strategic platform selection and quality content are key to long-term eBook success.
I trust you enjoyed this article about the Best Sites To Sell eBooks. Please stay tuned for more articles. Take care!
JeannetteZ
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Do you have thoughts, ideas, or questions? I would love to hear from you. Please share your questions, experiences, remarks, and suggestions about the Best Sites To Sell eBooks in the comments below. You can also email me at Jeannette@WorkFromAnywhereInTheWorld.com.
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This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate and through other affiliate programs. Please read my full affiliate disclosure.
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