Amazon KDP vs Gumroad: Which Is Better?

If you’ve been thinking about publishing your own eBook, journal, or digital course, chances are you’ve come across Amazon KDP and Gumroad. Both are powerful platforms that let creators sell digital products online — but they serve slightly different audiences and business goals.

As someone who’s explored both, I’ve noticed that choosing between them isn’t about which one is “best overall” — it’s about which one fits you better. Let’s break it down clearly, so you can make a confident choice and start earning from your work.

What Is Amazon KDP?

Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) is Amazon’s self-publishing platform that allows you to publish and sell eBooks and paperbacks directly on Amazon’s massive marketplace. When you publish with KDP, your book becomes available to millions of Amazon shoppers worldwide, often within 72 hours.

It’s a go-to choice for authors who want visibility, credibility, and access to Amazon’s global audience without paying upfront fees.

Pros of Amazon KDP

1. Huge built-in audience – You’re tapping into Amazon’s traffic. Millions of people search for books every day.

2. Print-on-demand – KDP prints paperbacks only when a customer orders, meaning you don’t handle inventory.

3. Free to use – You don’t pay to publish; Amazon simply takes a cut of your sales.

4. Trust and credibility – Selling on Amazon boosts your author reputation and search visibility.

5. Royalties – You earn up to 70% royalties on eBooks priced between $2.99 and $9.99.

Cons of Amazon KDP

1. Limited control over pricing and data – Amazon controls discounts, pricing structures, and doesn’t share customer emails.

2. Strict policies – Violating even small rules can lead to account suspensions.

3. Competition is fierce – Standing out among millions of books can be tough.

4. No custom branding – You can’t design a unique store experience; it’s all under Amazon’s umbrella.

What Is Gumroad?

Gumroad is a flexible eCommerce platform designed for independent creators who want to sell directly to their audience — whether that’s digital products, memberships, courses, or even physical goods.

Unlike KDP, Gumroad is your store. You set the price, design the layout, and collect customer emails to build relationships and grow your brand.

Pros of Gumroad

1. Total control – You own the store, product page, and customer relationships.

2. Sell anything digital – From PDFs and audiobooks to design templates, music, or video tutorials.

3. Instant payments – Get paid directly (usually through PayPal or bank transfers).

4. Simple setup – You can start selling in minutes with no technical skills required.

5. Email list building – Collect buyer emails for future launches or marketing campaigns.

Cons of Gumroad

1. No built-in audience – You have to bring your own traffic. Gumroad doesn’t promote your products.

2. Fees – Gumroad takes a percentage of every sale (starting around 10%).

3. Limited discoverability – Without your own marketing, your products may stay unseen.

4. No print-on-demand integration – It’s primarily for digital goods unless you handle shipping yourself.

Amazon KDP vs Gumroad: Side-by-Side Comparison

When Amazon KDP Is the Better Choice

I’d recommend Amazon KDP if you’re:

• Writing books, journals, or low-content notebooks.

• Wanting instant credibility through Amazon’s name.

• Not ready to handle marketing or drive your own traffic.

• Okay with following Amazon’s rules and limitations.

It’s ideal if your main goal is reach — you want as many readers as possible without building your own audience from scratch.

For example, if you’re publishing a self-help book, KDP can place you right beside similar bestsellers where potential readers are already searching.

When Gumroad Is the Better Choice

Gumroad is the better fit if you’re:

• A digital creator selling eBooks, guides, music, templates, or online courses.

• Building an audience on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or X (Twitter).

• Interested in long-term brand growth and email list building.

• Wanting to keep full control of your business and data.

It’s ideal if your goal is ownership and flexibility.

For instance, if you’re a designer or coach, Gumroad lets you bundle eBooks, video tutorials, and templates in one place — while staying in touch with your customers.

You can even integrate Gumroad with Systeme.io to create sales funnels, email automation, and landing pages. This combo helps you sell smarter without spending on multiple platforms.

Can You Use Both?

Absolutely — and honestly, that’s what I do.

You can use Amazon KDP to attract new readers who discover you through Amazon searches and use Gumroad to sell directly to loyal fans who follow you on social media or your newsletter.

Here’s how it works:

1. Publish on KDP for exposure.

2. Link to Gumroad inside your book for exclusive content, bonuses, or courses.

3. Collect emails through Gumroad to build your community.

This hybrid strategy gives you the best of both worlds: reach from Amazon and control from Gumroad.

Common FAQs

Can I sell the same eBook on Amazon KDP and Gumroad?

Yes. You just need to avoid enrolling in Amazon’s KDP Select program, which requires exclusivity. If you publish “wide” (outside Select), you can sell your eBook anywhere — including Gumroad.

Does Gumroad handle taxes like Amazon KDP does?

Amazon handles VAT and taxes automatically for customers in most regions. On Gumroad, they also manage VAT for EU buyers, but you’ll still be responsible for your own income tax reporting.

Which pays more per sale?

Gumroad typically pays more per sale since you can price your product however you want and keep customer data. KDP pays well too, but Amazon takes a bigger cut and pays monthly, not instantly.

Which is easier for beginners?

KDP is easier if you don’t want to worry about traffic or marketing. Gumroad is easier if you already have a following or want to control your sales process.

Can I sell print books on Gumroad?

Not directly. Gumroad is mainly for digital files. If you want to sell print books, KDP is the better option because of its print-on-demand service.

My Final Take

Here’s my honest conclusion:

• Amazon KDP is best for authors who want reach and credibility.

• Gumroad is best for creators who want flexibility, control, and direct relationships with buyers.

If you’re serious about building a long-term business around your digital products, I recommend starting with Gumroad and integrating it with Systeme.io to manage your sales funnels, emails, and automation in one place.

But if your dream is to become a published author with your book available to millions of readers, Amazon KDP is the way to go.

Final Thoughts

Both platforms are amazing — they just serve different creative goals. You can even combine them for the perfect balance of exposure and independence.

So, what do you value more: Amazon’s built-in audience or Gumroad’s freedom and control?