When self-publishing on Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), it's essential to choose the correct trim size for your book, as this affects both the aesthetic appeal and the production costs. KDP supports a variety of trim sizes for hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats. Below is a summary of the available options and considerations for each type.
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Table of Contents
- Hardcover Trim Sizes
- Paperback Trim Sizes
- Ebook
- Summary Table
- Choosing the Right Book Size for Your Project
- Ready-to-Use Templates for KDP
- Frequently Asked Questions
Hardcover Trim Sizes
Hardcover books on KDP are printed as case laminate, meaning the cover art is printed directly on the cover without a dust jacket. The following are the available trim sizes for hardcover books:
- 5.5" x 8.5" (13.97 x 21.59 cm)
- 6" x 9" (15.24 x 22.86 cm)
- 6.14" x 9.21" (15.6 x 23.39 cm)
- 7" x 10" (17.78 x 25.4 cm)
- 8.25" x 11" (20.96 x 27.94 cm)
The minimum page count for hardcover books is 75 pages, and the maximum is 550 pages' (Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing)'' (Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing)'.
Paperback Trim Sizes
Paperback books offer more flexibility in terms of trim sizes. The most common size in the U.S. is 6" x 9", but KDP provides several other options as well:
- 5" x 8" (12.7 x 20.32 cm)
- 5.06" x 7.81" (12.85 x 19.84 cm)
- 5.25" x 8" (13.34 x 20.32 cm)
- 5.5" x 8.5" (13.97 x 21.59 cm)
- 6" x 9" (15.24 x 22.86 cm)
- 6.14" x 9.21" (15.6 x 23.39 cm)
- 6.69" x 9.61" (16.99 x 24.41 cm)
- 7" x 10" (17.78 x 25.4 cm)
- 7.44" x 9.69" (18.9 x 24.61 cm)
- 7.5" x 9.25" (19.05 x 23.5 cm)
- 8" x 10" (20.32 x 25.4 cm)
- 8.25" x 6" (20.96 x 15.24 cm)
- 8.25" x 8.25" (20.96 x 20.96 cm)
- 8.5" x 8.5" (21.59 x 21.59 cm)
- 8.5" x 11" (21.59 x 27.94 cm)
- 8.27" x 11.69" (21 x 29.7 cm)
Each trim size has specific requirements for minimum and maximum page counts, which vary depending on the type of paper and ink used (black ink, standard color, premium color)' (Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing)'' (Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing)'.
Ebook
For ebooks, the concept of trim size does not apply in the same way since ebooks are reflowable and adapt to the screen size of the device on which they are viewed. However, it is still important to ensure your manuscript is properly formatted for digital reading' (Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing)'.
Summary Table
Book Type
Trim Size (in inches)
Trim Size (in cm)
Minimum Pages
Maximum Pages
Hardcover Regular
5.5" x 8.5"
13.97 x 21.59
75
550
Hardcover Regular
6" x 9"
15.24 x 22.86
75
550
Hardcover Large
6.14" x 9.21"
15.6 x 23.39
75
550
Hardcover Large
8.25" x 11"
20.96 x 27.94
75
550
Paperback Regular
5" x 8"
12.7 x 20.32
24
828
Paperback Regular
5.06" x 7.81"
12.85 x 19.84
24
828
Paperback Regular
5.25" x 8"
13.34 x 20.32
24
828
Paperback Regular
5.5" x 8.5"
13.97 x 21.59
24
828
Paperback Large
6.14" x 9.21"
15.6 x 23.39
24
828
Paperback Large
7" x 10"
17.78 x 25.4
24
828
Paperback Large
8.25" x 6"
20.96 x 15.24
24
800
Paperback Large
8.5" x 11"
21.59 x 27.94
24
590
These dimensions ensure that your book will print correctly and meet KDP's guidelines, helping you avoid any potential issues during the publishing process.
For more detailed information, visit the KDP Print Options page and the KDP Hardcover page on Amazon.
By choosing the appropriate trim size and understanding the requirements for each format, you can optimize your book's presentation and appeal to your target audience effectively.
Choosing the Right Book Size for Your Project
When choosing the right book size, consider the type of content, your target audience, and how you plan to distribute your book. Each size has its advantages, and the best choice will depend on your specific needs and goals. The A4 size (8.27" x 11.69") is an excellent choice for professional and educational materials, while the 6" x 9" size remains a versatile and popular option for a wide range of genres.
Smaller sizes like 5.5" x 8.5" offer portability, and larger sizes like 8" x 10" are ideal for visually rich content. By carefully considering these factors, you can select the perfect size to enhance the appeal and functionality of your book.
Why Choose A4 (8.27" x 11.69" / 21 x 29.7 cm)?
he A4 size is a versatile option that works well both as an ebook and a printed book. Its dimensions are ideal for reading on tablets, providing a comfortable and familiar reading experience akin to traditional printed documents. Choosing A4 gives your book a formal and polished look, suitable for business, academic, and educational content. A4 is a standard size for printers worldwide, making it easier and potentially cheaper to produce physical copies without special adjustments.
Why Choose US Trade (6" x 9" / 15.24 x 22.86 cm)?
This size works well for both hardcover and paperback formats. Its dimensions are suitable for a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. The 6" x 9" size is the most common and widely accepted book size in the U.S. market. It strikes a balance between readability and portability, making it a favorite among both authors and readers. Printing costs for the 6" x 9" size are typically lower compared to larger formats, making it an economical choice for self-publishers.
Ready-to-Use Templates for KDP
I invite you to browse through the collections of magazine templates and book templates by Ruben Stom Design.
These templates are designed to help you achieve a professional look with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on the content of your publication. They not only meet professional standards but also saves you valuable time and effort in the design process.
Why Choose Adobe InDesign Templates by Ruben Stom Design?
The book templates are available in a range of sizes, accommodating different genres and preferences. One of the standout options is the US standard 6" x 9" (15.24 x 22.86 cm), which is ideal for a wide array of book types including novels, memoirs, and non-fiction.
The magazine templates, on the other hand, are designed in the widely-used A4 size (8.27" x 11.69" / 21 x 29.7 cm). This size is perfect for creating visually appealing magazines that look professional both in print and on digital platforms, particularly tablets.
Both the magazine and the book templates are print-ready, ensuring that your work is formatted correctly and looks professional. The pre-designed layouts help maintain a high standard of quality and consistency throughout your publication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the most common trim sizes for KDP books?
A: The most common trim size for KDP books is 6" x 9", but there are several other options for both hardcovers and paperbacks.
Q: Can I use the same trim size for both hardcover and paperback books?
A: Yes, you can use the same trim size for both formats, but make sure to check the specific page count requirements for each type.
Q: What is the minimum page count for hardcover books on KDP?
A: The minimum page count for hardcover books on KDP is 75 pages.
Q: Are there any size limitations for paperback books on KDP?
A: Yes, paperback books have various trim sizes, each with specific minimum and maximum page counts. For example, a 6" x 9" paperback can have between 24 and 828 pages.
Q: Do ebooks have specific trim sizes like printed books?
A: No, ebooks are reflowable and adapt to the screen size of the device they are viewed on, so trim sizes are not applicable.
Q: What trim sizes are considered large for KDP books?
A: Large trim sizes for KDP books include dimensions like 6.14" x 9.21", 7" x 10", and 8.25" x 11".
Q: How do I choose the best trim size for my KDP book?
A: Choose a trim size based on the genre and standard sizes used for similar books. Also, consider the total page count and the type of content (text-heavy or image-heavy).
Q: What is bleed, and when should I use it for my KDP book?
A: Bleed is a printing term referring to when printed objects extend past the edge of the page. Use bleed if your book contains images or graphics that go to the edge of the page to avoid white borders. If you're interested you can read more about bleeds here: Explained: Bleeds and Printer Marks in Adobe InDesign
Q: Can I change the trim size of my book after publishing on KDP?
A: Yes, you can change the trim size, but you will need to upload a revised manuscript and cover file that matches the new size.
Q: Where can I find templates for KDP book sizes?
Book size, also known as trim size, may seem like a trivial detail in your book publishing strategy. But depending on your readers, your genre, and your book type, you probably should take a look at the different options and determine which book size will be best for you.
Why You Should Trust Me
So I've been writing and formatting books for a long time. 10+ years as of this writing.
But I actually found formatting to be a huge pain, which is why I actually created my own formatting software that solved all my problems. I called it Atticus.
But this isn't meant to be a sales pitch. I just want to make sure it's clear that I know what I'm talking about. The amount of research that went into not only formatting my own books, but also creating a formatting software is huge.
I researched everything, from tiny margin requirements, to the specific type of quotes to use (curly or straight, it makes a difference).
And yes, of course, that includes book trim sizes.
So if all that makes sense, hopefully you'll come along with me as show you everything I've learned.
What is Book Trim Size?
Put simply, trim size is the height and width of your print book. Some books will be larger than others, some smaller.
For those who publish through KDP or IngramSpark, they will present you with a list of possibilities, each with pros and cons, depending on what you want.
Note: In the US, inches are primarily used to denote book size, whereas the metric system is more commonly used in the U.K. and other countries. I will make sure to use both where I can, but will default to inches.
Other important terms to remember when dealing with trim size include the following:
- Font: The font choice and size will affect the page count of your book, which could influence your choice of trim size.
- Line spacing: Like font choice, the space between lines will affect the page count of the book.
- Margins (including Gutter Margins): The empty space that surrounds your text. Your gutter margin will be larger than the rest, so your text doesn't get lost in the inside crease of your book.
- Bleed: A term that usually refers to images/illustrations that reach all the way to the edges of the page.
- Color: The thickness of the paper will vary depending on your choices of Black & White, Cream, or Color. IngramSpark, for example, offers fewer sizes for color print books.
If you're using a program to adjust your trim sizes, I recommend Atticus, which will automatically format everything for you, so your trim size, margins, bleed, and all those other pesky details will be taken care of for you.
Video: Book Trim Size
For a nice summary of this article, along with a few of my own personal thoughts on the subject, be sure to check out this video on different trim sizes you can use.
Want more videos like this? Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly videos!
Why Is Trim Size Important?
Think back to the last time you were in a bookstore. What books caught your eye? Were they the large hardcovers with dramatic covers, or were they the mass market paperbacks perfectly lining shelves?
Readers tend to have different tastes. Some love the solid feel of the thick hardcover. Others (myself included) love the uniform feel of smaller-sized paperbacks on the shelf.
But there are far from just these two options. Children's books, for example, usually require radically different standard book sizes.
What you choose will have an effect on the reader's experience (assuming they are reading a print book). Depending on what you want for your reader, and the genre you write in, you will need to carefully consider what standard book size you choose.
Industry Standard Trim Sizes
Generally speaking, there are three classes of trim size that you should consider for your book. Each of these has several common sizes in each, so there is some flexibility. These are:
- Hardcover
- Paperback
- Mass-market paperback
You may also hear terms like these thrown around, especially among libraries and publishers, to denote the common size of a book:
- Folio: the largest format
- Quarto: smaller but still large
- Octavo: even smaller
While these terms are handy to know, they are not as important when determining the size of your book, especially when using digital print-on-demand services like KDP Print or IngramSpark.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Customize Contents and Sizes for Hardcover Book Printing Mockup Set.
Hardcover
The hardcover book is the industry standard, especially in traditional publishing, for new books released in book stores. They are the largest, the most durable, and take up the most real estate in a bookstore.
They are also the most expensive, and most traditionally published authors will make a lot more money from the sale of a hardcover than a paperback.
Until recently, IngramSpark was the best option for authors who wanted to make hardcovers of their book. But Amazon has launched a hardcover service, which is currently in beta at the time of this writing.
Paperback
For indie authors, a paperback book (also known as a trade paperback) will make up the majority of the print books you sell.
Paperbacks likewise have more standard size options than hardcover (on both KDP and IngramSpark), and they are cheaper to produce, which means they are less expensive for the reader.
Mass-market Paperback
Less common for self-published authors, mass-market paperbacks (also known as the pocket book) were originally designed to be the cheapest option for readers, using significantly less paper, and usually lower-quality paper as well.
Mass-market paperbacks are not as common ever since the ebook emerged and took their place in the affordability and convenience markets. However, they still exist, and IngramSpark even has some paperback printing options in their size. KDP does not.
Trim Sizes in KDP and IngramSpark
While there are other print-on-demand services, many if not most self-published authors use either KDP Print or IngramSpark. While this is not a review of either, the reasons for one or the other usually come down to the following:
- KDP is convenient and easily syncs up with your KDP ebook. There is also no setup fee required.
- IngramSpark has a larger variety of print options, a greater possibility of getting your books in bookstores. Until recently there was a setup fee, but now they've switched to taking a higher percentage of royalties instead.
Let's take a look at what each service has to offer in print sizes.
Note: While KDP Print does now have hardcovers in beta, it does not offer hardcovers with a dust jacket. IngramSpark does.
While IngramSpark clearly has a lot more options, bear in mind that the vast majority of authors will not need most of these different sizes. Most fiction or non-fiction authors can probably get by with 5 x 8', 5.5 x 8.5', or 6 x 9'.
If you have books of a special variety, such as a graphic novel or children's book, that you might want to give IngramSpark a serious look. There's a good chance it will have what you need.
When you are formatting your print ready PDF, a knowledge of your page size will be critical to your formatting process.
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Which Trim Sizes are the Most Common?
If the table above was too overwhelming, don't worry. Most of these sizes are not necessary for the vast majority of fiction and non-fiction authors.
To make it a little easier for you, here are some of the most common sizes in traditional and indie publishing.
- Mass market paperbacks: 4.25 x 6.87'
- Trade paperbacks (most common for indie authors): 5 x 8', 5.5 x 8.5' or 6 x 9'
- Novellas: 5 x 8'
- Fiction hardcovers: 6 x 9'
- Comic books: 6.625 x 10.25'
- Textbooks: Vary from 6 x 9' to 8.5 x 11'
There is some variation depending on the genre, and some book types (like a photo book or art book) can have a wide variety of sizes, but these are the standard sizes for most of the industry.
What if You Need an Unusual Size?
On the off chance that you need a size that is not covered by KDP or IngramSpark, you can find offset book printing companies to do the work for you.
For example, let's say that you want a coffee table book, or perhaps a children's book that is only four inches tall, but eleven inches wide. An offset printing company could do this for you, as they can handle most unusual print sizes.
Another example would be a book with special needs, such as foldable inserts.
However, offset printing companies are significantly more expensive and time-intensive than a regular digital printing company. So expect to pay upfront and extra for the service.
In other words, only use an offset printing company if you absolutely have to. I recommend trying to make it work with KDP or IngramSpark first.
What Trim Size Should I Pick?
There are four factors to consider when choosing a trim size:
- Genre/book type: Epic fantasy, for example, will expect thicker books, while children's books are better with a wider trim so as to allow for larger images and words.
- Cost: The size will affect how much paper is used to print your book, which can affect cost.
- Marketability: related to the previous two, size is often a determining factor on the placement of your book in a bookstore, or on a reader's shelf.
- Your personal taste: I mention this only because you should like the size that you choose, within reason.
Let's cover each of these in more detail.
Genre/book type
While there are no hard and fast rules about what trim size you should have for each genre, there are a number of trends and suggested sizes for each.
For example, a huge epic fantasy might benefit from a larger print size, because having a huge doorstopper of a book is expected for that genre.
On the other hand, you might want a smaller print size for a horror or thriller, so there are fewer words on each page, making the reader feel like they are flying through the book.
Here are the more common sizes for various book types:
- For fiction: 4.25 x 6.87' (mass market paperback), 5 x 8', 5.25 x 8', 5.5 x 8.5', or 6 x 9'
- For novellas: almost always 5 x 8'
- For children's books: 7 x 10', 5 x 8', 11 x 8.5', or 8.5 x 8.5'. Children's books tend to vary more widely than other types.
- For non-fiction: 5.5 x 8.5', 6 x 9', 7 x 10'.
- For memoirs: 5.25 x 8', 5.5 x 8.5'
Art and photography books are another consideration, but there are no set standards for these. Choose whatever you feel is best. I would personally recommend one of the square sizes for a photography book, but almost anything will do if it fits the aesthetic you are looking for.
Cost
In most cases, especially if you are using KDP Print or IngramSpark, the larger your trim size, the more expensive your book will be to produce.
This is true, even if the larger print size results in a lower page count by fitting more words on each page.
What this means is that your book will be more expensive to the reader, which could drive down sales.
Despite this, you don't necessarily want to pick the cheapest option possible. Sometimes having a large book is necessary, depending on the needs of the market and the readers' expectations.
Additionally, if you're trying to increase ebook sales, having a really expensive paperback could make it seem like the ebook is a much better deal. So while cost is something to consider, it's not the end of the world if your book is more expensive to produce in print form.
Marketability
Consider your audience. What do they like? Where are they reading?
Are they reading on the go? If so, you might want a smaller print size to be easier to transport.
Are they reading at home in their cozy arm-chair, or perhaps they have poor eyesight? In this case, a larger book with a larger font size might be in order.
Ultimately, I can't list every instance when you would want a larger or smaller trim size. So my best recommendation is to study the genre.
Go to a bookstore, take a tape measure or ruler with you and look at the books that are sitting on the shelves. You'll probably find a lot of variation, but also some general trends in your genre.
Pay close attention.
Personal Taste
As you can see, there is still a wide degree of options for each category, and there are no set rules.
That is why, ultimately, it comes down to what you want.
While I do recommend staying within the general guidelines outlined above (don't go publish a novella at a 8.5 x 11' trim size, for example), it's ultimately up to you.
Personally, I prefer 5 x 8' for my fiction, because I like smaller books, and I try to keep it as consistent as possible because I like how uniform everything looks on my shelf.
But that's just me. You may have a completely different opinion and that is fine.
Which Will You Choose?
I've given you my suggestions, along with a wide variety of options, and a comprehensive look at what KDP Print and IngramSpark have to offer.
Now it's your turn. What will you choose? Leave your comments down below. I'd love to hear your choices, and your reasoning behind them.
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