Wider digital reach
400+ stores and 50,000+ libraries for ebooks, plus audiobooks Lulu does not offer.
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Chiify vs Lulu
Lulu is a print-on-demand specialist with its own bookstore and strong print options. Chiify is a wide ebook and audiobook distributor with 0% commission. Here is how they compare.
Lulu is known for flexible print-on-demand — lots of formats, sizes, and a built-in Lulu bookstore — plus global distribution through partners. It is a solid choice if print is your focus. Chiify is built for broad ebook and audiobook distribution to 400+ stores and 50,000+ libraries, with free EPUB conversion and 0% commission on paid plans.
If you mainly want print books and a storefront, Lulu is strong. If you want the widest digital reach and to keep 100% of your sales, Chiify is the better fit — and it handles print too via Ingram.
Chiify vs Lulu, side by side
| Feature | Chiify | Lulu | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary strength | Wide ebook + audiobook | Print-on-demand variety | – |
| Commission / model | 0% on paid plans | Takes a margin on sales | ✓ |
| Retail stores (digital) | 400+ | Major retailers via partners | ✓ |
| Audiobook distribution | Yes | No | ✓ |
| Free EPUB conversion | Yes | No | ✓ |
| Free ISBN | Yes | Free ISBN available | – |
| Print formats / options | Standard trims (via Ingram) | Wide format variety | ✗ |
| Own storefront | Chiify Store | Lulu Bookstore | – |
| Libraries | 50,000+ | Via distribution partners | ✓ |
| Ease for ebooks | Upload DOCX, auto-convert | Print-first workflow | ✓ |
Competitor details are based on publicly available information and can change — check Lulu's site for current pricing and terms.
Why authors choose Chiify
0% commission
Keep your full royalty on paid plans instead of giving up a margin per sale.
Free conversion
Turn a Word file into a clean EPUB 3 for free, preview it, and ship.
One dashboard
Ebooks, audiobooks, and print in one place with a single monthly payout.
When Lulu might be the better choice
No tool is right for everyone. Here's where Lulu can be the smarter pick:
- Your main goal is printed books with lots of format and size choices.
- You want to sell directly through the Lulu Bookstore.
- You are producing photo books, journals, or speciality print products.
Try the numbers yourself with our free royalty calculator and print cost calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Is Chiify or Lulu better for ebooks?
Chiify is built for ebooks and audiobooks — 400+ stores, 50,000+ libraries, free EPUB conversion, and 0% commission on paid plans. Lulu is print-first; its digital reach is narrower and it does not distribute audiobooks.
Does Lulu do audiobooks?
No. Lulu focuses on print and ebooks. Chiify distributes audiobooks to audio stores and library audio channels alongside your ebooks.
Can I use Lulu for print and Chiify for digital?
Yes. That is a common and sensible split, since Chiify is non-exclusive. Just avoid sending the same book to the same store from both services.
Start distributing your books worldwide
Keep 100% of your royalties — no exclusivity, no setup fees.