In the evolving world of indie publishing, Draft2Digital (D2D) has positioned itself as one of the most user-friendly and efficient platforms for self-published authors. Whether you’re releasing a debut novella or building an extensive backlist, D2D offers a wide range of tools, formatting support, and distribution channels that make it a compelling alternative (or complement) to Amazon KDP.
This article explores what Draft2Digital is, what it offers, how it compares to other self-publishing platforms, and how authors can use it strategically to maximise reach and royalties.
What is Draft2Digital?
Founded in 2012, Draft2Digital is a digital publishing platform that helps authors format, publish, and distribute eBooks and print books to multiple online retailers and library systems. Its mission is to simplify the publishing process so authors can focus on writing rather than wrestling with technology or backend logistics.
Unlike Amazon KDP, which is focused on distributing to Amazon only, D2D enables wide distribution, meaning your book reaches a global audience across multiple storefronts and formats.
Key Features and Benefits
1. Easy-to-use Interface
D2D is known for its intuitive dashboard. You can upload your manuscript as a Word document, and D2D automatically converts it into professional-looking ePub and print-ready formats.
2. Free Formatting Tools
D2D offers free automatic formatting for eBooks and print. You can choose from multiple professional templates, customise front/back matter, generate tables of contents, and even create teaser pages for your next book.
3. Wide Distribution Network
Draft2Digital distributes to major online retailers and library platforms including:
- Apple Books
- Barnes & Noble
- Kobo
- Tolino
- Scribd
- Hoopla
- OverDrive (for libraries)
- Biblioteca
- BorrowBox
- Vivlio
- Amazon (opt-in)
- Library Direct
4. Universal Book Links (Books2Read)
With D2D’s Universal Book Links (UBLs), you can create a single smart link that points readers to your book on all major retailers. This is excellent for marketing, especially if you publish wide.
5. Print on Demand (D2D Print)
Draft2Digital also offers print book distribution through D2D Print. You can publish paperbacks without any upfront cost, using the same manuscript file as your eBook. D2D Print includes options for custom trim sizes, matte or gloss covers, and global availability.
6. No Upfront Fees
D2D operates on a royalty split model: they take about 10% of the retail price after the retailer takes its cut. There are no upfront fees for formatting, publishing, or distribution.
7. Author-Focused Extras
- Sales dashboard & analytics
- Automated end-matter generation (e.g., links to your next book)
- Free ISBNs (optional)
- Promotional opportunities through Books2Read
Publishing eBooks with Draft2Digital
Publishing an eBook via D2D is simple:
- Upload your manuscript (Word .docx works best)
- Choose a template and customise layout options
- Upload your cover (or use a D2D-recommended designer)
- Set pricing and select regions
- Choose which stores you want to distribute to (you can exclude Amazon or any others)
- Review and publish
You can also set up preorders, select royalty currencies, and manage sales descriptions all from one place.
Print Publishing with Draft2Digital
With D2D Print, you can use your same Word manuscript and choose:
- Trim size
- Paper colour
- Cover finish
- Distribution territory
Your print book will be available to bookstores and libraries that use Ingram distribution (though D2D doesn’t yet match IngramSpark’s full reach). You can order author copies at print cost plus shipping.
Draft2Digital vs. Amazon KDP
| Feature | Draft2Digital | Amazon KDP |
|---|---|---|
| eBook Formatting | Free & automatic | Free but basic |
| Print Books | Available (D2D Print) | Available |
| Distribution | Wide (many retailers) | Amazon only (unless you opt out of exclusivity) |
| Royalties | ~60% of list price | 35-70% depending on options |
| ISBN | Free (optional) | Must provide your own or use Amazon’s |
| Library Access | OverDrive, Hoopla, etc. | Limited |
| Preorders | Yes | Yes |
| Universal Links | Yes (Books2Read) | No |
| Exclusivity | No | Required for KDP Select |
Best Use Case: Use KDP for Amazon-specific reach and Kindle Unlimited (if you opt in), but use D2D to distribute everywhere else to diversify income and readership.
Royalty Breakdown
Here’s an example of how royalties might work on a $4.99 eBook:
- Retailer (e.g., Kobo) takes 30% = $1.50
- Draft2Digital takes 10% of $4.99 = $0.50
- You earn = $2.99
Royalties are paid monthly via PayPal, direct deposit, or mailed cheque (depending on region).
Marketing Tools
Books2Read UBLs help readers find your book across stores
Teaser Pages allow you to add sneak peeks of future books at the end of current titles
Author Pages on Books2Read aggregate your titles into a single branded destination
Promotions tab (beta) lists retailer-wide discounts or opportunities you can opt into
Final Thoughts
Draft2Digital is an excellent all-in-one platform for authors who want to publish wide, maintain control over their IP, and avoid the technical challenges of formatting and distribution.
Whether you use D2D exclusively, or in combination with KDP, it gives you professional tools and access to markets beyond Amazon. And with the rise of library lending and international eBook growth, going wide has never made more sense.
For indie authors looking to scale their publishing empire, Draft2Digital might just be the smartest choice on the table.
