Publish Your Work. Maximize Your Earnings.
Your definitive guide to author royalties for making smart decisions.
At Applicadigital, we provide you with the clarity you need about publishing models.
Request Consulting for My BookHow Do Royalties Work?
Traditional Publishing
The publisher assumes costs and risks in exchange for a percentage of sales and control over the work's rights.
- Physical Books: 8-15% of retail price.
- eBooks and Audiobooks: 15-30% on publisher's net income.
Author's investment: Practically none.
Self-Publishing
The author assumes the investment and total control, obtaining a significantly higher royalty percentage.
- Physical Books (Print on Demand): Up to 60% of list price (minus printing costs).
- eBooks: Between 35% and 70% of list price (conditions apply).
Author's investment: Total (editing, design, marketing...).
Traditional vs. Self-Publishing: Which One is for You?
| Feature | Traditional Publishing | Self-Publishing |
|---|---|---|
| Royalty (General) | Low (8-25%) | High (up to 70%) |
| Initial Investment | Publisher | Author |
| Creative Control | Limited | Total |
| Publishing Time | Long (months/years) | Fast (days/weeks) |
| Marketing | Shared/Publisher | Author |
| Physical Distribution | Wide (bookstores) | Limited (online) |
| Prestige / Seal | Generally higher | Depends on success |
The choice depends on your goals: traditional publishing offers backing and prestige; self-publishing, total control and greater earning potential.
At Applicadigital We Advise You
Every author and every work is unique. Understanding the implications of each path is crucial to making the best decision. We help you:
Choose Your Path
We analyze your work and profile to recommend the best publishing option for you.
Evaluate Profitability
We project earning potential and costs to establish realistic expectations.
Balance Control
We help you weigh creative control against workload and investment.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact us. The first step toward your work's success begins with a conversation.