Review:
Smashwords (another Indie Ebook Distributor)
overall review score: 3.8
⭐⭐⭐⭐
score is between 0 and 5
Smashwords is an independent eBook distribution platform that enables authors and publishers to publish, distribute, and sell their ebooks across a wide range of online retailers and libraries. Founded in 2008, it aims to democratize ebook publishing by providing a platform that supports indie authors and small presses, offering a straightforward publishing process and broad distribution reach.
Key Features
- Wide distribution network including Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Scribd, and more
- Flexible royalty options with up to 80% revenue share for authors
- Compatibility with multiple ebook formats (ePub, Word, PDF)
- Comprehensive author dashboard for sales tracking and reporting
- Support for DRM-free ebooks
- Marketing tools such as promotional discounts and free giveaways
- No upfront costs for publishing
Pros
- Excellent platform for indie authors to reach multiple retailers with minimal hassle
- No initial publishing fees, lowering barriers for new authors
- Good flexibility in pricing and promotional options
- Support for DRM-free content allowing authors to maintain control of their work
- Encourages independent publishing community
Cons
- Limited control over pricing on some distribution channels once uploaded
- Smashwords itself acts mainly as a distributor rather than a direct retailer, limiting direct customer engagement
- User interface for uploading and managing titles can be outdated or less intuitive compared to competitors
- Lack of additional marketing services or dedicated promotional support
- Distribution reach is extensive but still less comprehensive than Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing