The two most popular models for printing your book are print-on-demand (POD) and short run printing. Print on demand offers more flexibility and does not require inventory space. It is also less risky because you only print as many books as you sell. In contrast, short-run printing delviers higher quality, more customization options, and a better cost per book. This makes it more attractive for established authors or authors that want a more custom book. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to print your book in the United States, focusing on short run and print-on-demand services.
If you’re trying to figure out where to print your book, you’re not alone. Choosing the right place to print your book is crucial to ensure it meets your quality standards, fits within your budget, and arrives on time. Whether you're a self-published author, small publisher, or a business looking for custom printed books, you want to find affordable, high-quality book printing in the USA.
When printing your book in the USA, you benefit from:
Gorham Printing is a small, family-owned and minority-owned book printer that has been helping authors for over 50 years. Long before online platforms became popular, Gorham printing was already printing books by hand with careful craftsmanship. Gorham Printing is a leading choice for custom short-run book printing in the United States. They specialize in printing runs of 25 to 5,000 copies with a strong emphasis on quality and personalization.
Key Features:
Gorham Printing is best suited for self-published authors, small businesses, and anyone looking for high-quality, custom book printing with a short-run order (up to 5,000 copies).
If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality, American-made book printer, Gorham Printing is a top choice for authors, publishers, and creative professionals nationwide. Every book is printed in our U.S. production facility by specialists who have spent decades perfecting their craft. Gorham Printing is exactly the type of trusted, human-centered business authors are hoping to find.
If you’re a self-published author or need print-on-demand services, IngramSpark is one of the best book printing services in the USA. It provides a combination of global distribution and affordable printing for authors looking to reach a large audience.
Authors tend to like IngramSpark because it offers the widest global print‑on‑demand distribution in the industry, strong bookstore compatibility, and higher perceived print quality than Amazon KDP.
Key Features:
Ingram Spark is well suited self-publishing authors who need a flexible print-on-demand service with access to global distribution.
BookBaby offers affordable printing solutions for indie authors and small publishers. Their printing services come with a low cost per unit, making them a popular choice for first-time authors looking to print smaller quantities of books.
BookBaby is also a “one‑stop shop” for self‑publishers, offering editing, design, printing, and distribution. This makes it appealing to authors who want convenience and are willing to pay more for a streamlined, guided process.
Key Features:
Book Baby is a great choice for indie authors, businesses, and small publishers looking for affordable custom book printing.
If you’re looking for high-quality, premium printing for your book, PrintNinja is one of the best choices in the U.S. Known for producing exceptionally detailed and high-quality prints, PrintNinja is perfect for authors with more complex design requirements.
Authors choose PrintNinja because it delivers high‑end, customizable offset printing with excellent customer service. It’s especially popular for graphic novels, children’s books, art books, and card games.
Key Features:
Print Ninja is ideal for authors and publishers who want high-quality, custom book printing with advanced design and finish options.
For authors who want low-cost printing with no setup fees, The Book Patch is a great option. This print-on-demand service allows you to print as few as one copy, making it perfect for authors just starting or for testing new books.
Key Features:
The Book Patch is best for authors looking for affordable print-on-demand services with no minimum orders.
When deciding where to print your book, consider the following factors:
Finding the best book printing service depends on your specific needs—whether it's a short-run print order, print-on-demand, or premium custom printing. For affordable, high-quality, custom printing, Gorham Printing is a top choice, especially if you need a short-run of books (up to 5,000 copies). IngramSpark is perfect for global distribution and print-on-demand. If you're on a budget, BookBaby and The Book Patch are great for affordable print-on-demand services.
Whether you’re preparing your debut novel or producing a professional publication, we’re here to help you create a book you can be proud of. Start with an instant online quote. If you have any questions, call to speak with a real person in the USA who will be happy to guide you.