11 Best Publishing Platforms for Authors (2025)

Best Cross-Platform eBook Readers in 2025 – TL;DR

Self-publishing has made it easier than ever for authors to publish and distribute eBooks. Choosing the right publishing platform for authors ensures maximum visibility, better reader engagement, and smooth content management.

Each platform offers unique features, so authors must compare options carefully before publishing. Key features to consider include ease of use, format compatibility, global distribution, analytics, DRM security, and interactive elements.

The right platform not only helps authors reach more readers but also supports business growth and long-term success.

The best feeling for a writer, you ask? It is indeed finishing writing a book. The satisfaction of having your book completed is unmatched. But hold on! That is not it.

The task of getting your finished book published is as significant. The good news is, gone are the days when authors had to approach the doors of several publishers and wait patiently till one of them found it worth publishing.

With digital publishing taking the internet by storm, authors no more have to go around physically with their manuscripts to publishers.

eBook publishing platforms have simplified the job by leaps and bounds. Self-publishing has revolutionized the entire process of book publishing.

Writers can easily publish their books on an online publishing platform. However, a few things to bear in mind are the exposure, royalties, and the publishing process.

Dive in to know the 11 best free publishing platforms for authors:

Table of Contents

I. 11 Best Publishing Platforms for Authors in 2025

1. Google Play Books
2. KITABOO
3. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
4. Kobo Writing Life
5. Bookrix
6. Barnes & Noble Press
7. Apple Books
8. Lulu
9. Wattpad
10. Smashwords
11. Blurb

II. How to Choose the Best Publishing Platform?

III. Conclusion

IV. FAQs

Google Play Books, one of the original and most established online publishing platforms, needs no introduction. Google Play undeniably is a large platform, with its reach in 75 countries and more than 300 billion users worldwide. Its Play Books service enables authors to publish their books online to this wide audience.

Once you get your book on Google Play Books, you make it available to the search algorithm of Google increasing your visibility manifold.

Google does not require exclusivity, which means that authors are free to have their books published on other platforms simultaneously. Play Books ensures a 70% royalty to its authors, supporting only PDF and EPUB formats.

KITABOO is a top publishing platform for authors that makes eBook creation simple and effective. Authors can produce interactive and media-rich eBooks that keep readers engaged from start to finish.

The platform supports text, audio, video, animations, and other interactive elements to enhance learning and reading experiences.

It works seamlessly on Windows, iOS, and Android, so readers can access books on any device. Offline reading lets readers enjoy content even without an internet connection. The in-depth eBook analytics give authors clear insights into reader behavior and engagement. These insights help them refine content and plan future publications.

Distribution is simple and fast, enabling eBooks to reach multiple stores and platforms without extra effort. Augmented Reality and multimedia features make content visually dynamic and memorable.

Digital Rights Management protection ensures books remain secure and prevents unauthorized access. Automated EPUB conversion makes publishing smooth and consistent across devices.

Collaborative workflows allow authors, editors, and designers to work together efficiently. The content management system makes updates, version control, and library organization easy.

With its combination of creativity, control, and convenience, KITABOO is trusted by authors worldwide.

A leading name among many aspiring writers is Amazon KDP. This eBook publishing platform gives you full rights to your book and aids your book’s availability globally.

The unmatched exposure is best for budding writers. About 40% of the best-sellers on Amazon are self-published.

Amazon supports DOC, DOCX, Kindle Package Format (KPF), EPUB, and MOBI formats. Authors receive royalties ranging from 35% to 70%, determined by the price of the book.

One of the best online platforms to get your book on is Kobo Writing Life. It is a Canada-based company serving as one of the largest eBook stores. It gives you the liberty of setting your prices and going about with your promotions.

Kobo Writing Life allows you to publish simultaneously on platforms besides its own, allowing you to reap multiple benefits for your book.

Kobo gives enough exposure to your book, with its publications reaching more than 16 countries. It supports formats like DOC, DOCX, ODT, EPUB, and MOBI.

Another free online publishing platform where authors can self-publish their books is Bookrix. Like most eBook publishing platforms, Bookrix also does not require exclusivity. It allows its authors 70% royalty paid monthly.

Prior to publishing, the platform formats and optimizes your work. The platform also assigns your book an ISBN (International Standard Book Number).

Barnes & Noble Press is a quick and easy eBook publishing platform of the Barnes & Noble enterprise. It enables authors to publish their books in less than twenty minutes, putting them up for sale within three days.

The platform also allows you to publish your book on other platforms simultaneously. The authors are entitled to a royalty of 70% on each sale.

It also provides editorial, designing, and marketing services with applicable charges. B&N accepts formats like DOC, DOCX, TXT, HTML, and EPUB.

Running close behind Google Play Books is Apple Books. It is the second-largest online retailer of eBooks. Over 100 million MAC users have direct access to Apple Books which makes this online publishing platform a cut above the rest.

Apple books promise its authors 70% of the royalties of their publishing, irrespective of the book’s price. It allows its users to publish under a DBA or pen name. It supports formats like EPUB and multi-touch books created in Apple Pages.

Another platform providing eBook publishing services is Lulu. It is the home of several self-publishing authors. It provides guidance and assistance to its users throughout the publishing process.

It also dispenses distribution services for a fee to ensure that your book reaches a large audience, along with formatting, editing, and designing services.

Lulu shares 90% of the net profits with its authors. Like Google, it only supports formats like EPUB and PDF.

Unlike the other mentions here, Wattpad is typically for short stories and novels published episodically. The majority of stories here are free for readers except a selected few.

You must be wondering why you would opt for a free site. The logic is simple. Wattpad has 90 million readers, enabling you to create a community of readers that looks forward to your work and then search for you on other platforms.

The answer to every self-publishing writer’s prayers is Smashwords. It works both as an eBook publisher and an aggregator allowing you to sell your book to major retailers and their bookstores.

Blurb is an ideal platform for authors interested in creating visually stunning print and eBooks. It offers a wide range of book customization options, making it perfect for photographers, artists, and creators of visual content.

It supports the EPUB and MOBI formats and provides 80% royalty to authors. It is a speedy publishing platform, giving your book worldwide exposure.

Selecting the right publishing platform is an important decision for long-term success. It decides how effectively you connect with readers and grow your brand.

A trusted publishing platform for authors must combine usability, flexibility, and innovation. Here are the features that should matter the most.

1. Ease of Use and Simple Interface

A publishing platform for authors should be easy to use and simple to explore. A clean interface helps authors work faster and publish without stress. It removes confusion and supports a smoother workflow.

Readers benefit from faster releases and well-formatted books. An intuitive system also reduces training needs for teams and ensures consistent publishing output. When processes are simple, creativity can thrive freely.

2. Multi-Device and Cross-Platform Access

Readers expect to enjoy books anywhere and on any device. A publishing platform must deliver consistent reading across phones, tablets, and computers. Cross-platform access improves convenience and reader loyalty.

Authors gain visibility among larger audiences, helping their books reach more markets. Businesses also benefit from higher engagement and steady growth. Every device-friendly feature adds to your brand’s credibility and global appeal.

3. Format Compatibility and Conversion Tools

A publishing platform for authors should handle multiple file formats like EPUB, PDF, and more. Built-in conversion tools save authors valuable time and effort. These tools ensure that content appears clean and professional on every device.

Readers enjoy smoother navigation and better readability. Businesses can manage large content libraries with less dependency on technical teams. Seamless format support builds efficiency and speeds up content delivery cycles.

4. Content Protection and DRM Security

Authors deserve protection for their creative work. A publishing platform must include reliable Digital Rights Management technology. It prevents copying, sharing, or misuse of your eBooks. This helps authors maintain ownership and secure revenue.

Readers trust platforms that value content integrity. Businesses safeguard their brand reputation and intellectual property. Strong DRM protection also builds long-term sustainability for your publishing ecosystem.

5. Interactive and Multimedia Features

Modern readers love books that are lively and interactive. A publishing platform for authors should support audio, video, animations, and quizzes. These elements make reading more engaging and memorable.

Authors can experiment creatively to deliver richer experiences. Readers gain deeper understanding and enjoy learning visually. Businesses see higher retention and stronger user engagement. Interactive eBooks with captivating features turn ordinary content into powerful digital experiences.

6. Analytics and Reader Insights

A publishing platform for authors must provide access to performance data and reader analytics. These insights show how readers engage with your content. Authors can identify what works best and improve future writing.

Businesses can plan targeted campaigns and refine product strategies. Data-driven publishing builds smarter decisions and higher ROI. Understanding your readers is the key to sustainable success and growth.

7. Global Distribution and Scalability

A publishing platform for authors should help books reach readers around the world. Global content distribution ensures your eBooks are accessible anytime and anywhere. This boosts visibility and builds author recognition.

Readers can easily discover your titles, increasing engagement and loyalty. Businesses gain a stronger global presence and consistent revenue streams. Scalable platforms grow with your needs, supporting expansion without extra effort.

In conclusion, self-publishing has revolutionized the entire process of book publishing, and eBook publishing platforms have simplified the job by leaps and bounds. With the 10 best free publishing platforms for authors listed above, publishing your book has become easier than ever before. Each platform has its unique features, benefits, and limitations.

Authors can choose the platform that best suits their needs and preferences to ensure maximum exposure and the highest possible royalties. The journey of getting your book published is no longer a daunting task but has become an exciting adventure with endless possibilities. So, if you have a book waiting to be published, dive in and take advantage of the amazing opportunities presented by these 11 publishing platforms.

Here is a pro tip: if you are a newbie, start slowly and choose a platform that provides thorough assistance to ensure that you are on the right track. So go out there and publish your eBook right away!

Contact our expert team now and get started!

To know more, please write to us at contact@kitaboo.com