So, you’ve written a book or you’re finally about to. First of all, congratulations. That’s already a major milestone. But now comes the next big decision: how do you get your book into the world? In 2025, authors have more publishing options than ever before. The two primary paths, i.e., self-publishing and traditional publishing, both offer distinct advantages, challenges, and trade-offs. Knowing the difference between them can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Traditional Publishing?
Traditional publishing is the old-school route: you query a literary agent, get a publishing deal with a press, and they handle the editing, cover design, distribution, and marketing. In return, you usually earn royalties (a small percentage) and an advance (if you’re lucky), while the publisher keeps creative and financial control.
Sounds nice, right? It is for the few who land a deal.
Pros:
1: Professional editing, cover design, and distribution at no cost to the author
2: Access to bookstores, libraries, and literary prestige
3: Potential for larger media exposure
Cons:
1: Highly competitive and slow (it can take years to get published)
2: Little to no creative control over cover design, title, or even content
3: Lower royalty rates (typically 10-15% of net sales)
4: The publisher owns most of the rights.
In 2025, traditional publishing remains elite and valuable, but it’s no longer the only way to produce a high-quality book.
What Is Self-Publishing?
Self-publishing puts you in the driver’s seat. You handle (or outsource) everything from editing to cover design to marketing. You choose how and where to sell your book: Amazon, IngramSpark, your website, or even in local shops.
Many authors are now turning to book publishing services to help them manage this process professionally, bypassing traditional gatekeepers.
Pros:
1: Full creative control
2: Higher royalties (up to 70% on some platforms)
3: Faster publishing timelines—you can release your book in weeks, not years.
4: Flexible pricing, formatting, and promotion options
Cons:
1: Upfront costs (editing, design, formatting, marketing)
2: You are the publisher—everything falls on you.
3: Tougher to get into bookstores or land traditional media reviews
Still, in 2025, self-publishing has come a long way. With the rise of book publishing services that offer hybrid models—think editing + distribution without demanding your rights—authors are finding this route more empowering than ever.
So… Which One’s Right for You?
The honest answer? It depends on your goals.
If you want literary prestige, are patient, and are okay with less control, traditional publishing might be the way to go. If you’re entrepreneurial, want to own your rights, or have a niche audience, self-publishing may be a better option for you.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
1: Do I want full control over my book’s content and design?
2: Am I willing to invest in professional editing and design up front?
3: Do I want to publish quickly, or am I okay waiting years?
4: Is it more important for me to reach a specific audience or to have the validation of a publisher?
5: Do I want to keep my rights and set my pricing?
Final Thoughts
There’s no “one right way” to publish a book. The real question is: what’s right for you?
Publishing isn’t just about printing words; it’s about building your author brand, reaching your audience, and sharing something meaningful. Whether you partner with a traditional publisher or launch your book independently with the help of book publishing services, your voice deserves to be heard.
Just remember: no matter the path, what matters most is that you finish the book. The rest? That’s what editors, designers, marketers, and yes—publishing services—are here to help you with.
You’ve got the story. Now let’s figure out how the world gets to read it.
