Print On Demand vs Offset Printing Services

Determining Which Service is Best For You

PRINT ON DEMAND AND DISTRIBUTION SERVICES
Print on demand  (POD) is an ideal solution for indie authors who are looking to print at an affordable price.  There's no minimum order requirement; therefore, books can be printed as orders come in.  Print on demand services also give authors more control over their work and allow them to upload additions or changes as often as needed--in many cases for free.  Another advantage of print on demand is that authors can take advantage of global distribution, which helps to get their books in the hands of readers all over the world.  The following is a list of the top POD companies for books.

• IngramSpark
• BookBaby

• Amazon KDP
• Diggy POD

• Lulu
• Draft2Digital

• Acutrack
• Blurb

• Traffored
• Matador​

​OFFSET PRINTING
One of the biggest advantages of offset printing is the quality.  Magazines, books and booklets that require a polished look, especially for pictures rich in color, are often printed using an offset printer.  Unlike POD, offset printers require a minimum print job; however, most of them offer volume discounts.  Author's who are looking for their book to print in a specific size and want to use special materials such as cloth, foil and embossing, will generally seek out an offset printer.  However, offset printers don't offer global distribution.  Compare features of the offset printers listed below to determine which better suits your needs. For more information, click on the link to access their website.
Printing Center USA 
​Offer a 43 point inspection by both human and computer
Low minimum starting at 5 copies
Upfront pricing with online price generator
Offer a variety of print jobs
Customarily run specials
Mailed samples available upon request
Offer online design tools to assist with book & cover design
4 Binding Options: Offer Wire, Perfect  (softcover), Spiral Bound and Saddle Stitch
Reasonable prices

48 Hour Books
Quick turnaround
Low minimum starting at 10 copies
Upfront pricing with online price generator
Mailed samples available upon request
Offer templates to assist with book & cover design
4 Binding Options: Offer Case (hard cover), Perfect (softcover), Spiral Bound and Saddle Stitch