Are you ready to convert your manuscript into an ebook? At first glance, the process can be frightening, but the right equipment and services make all the difference. Whether you seek free converters or full-service publishing platforms, this book has got your back. Here are 16 ebook conversion services thoroughly arranged for both authors and publishers.
But before getting into these tools, let’s briefly discuss an important step: formatting. Proper formatting of your manuscript will ensure that everything goes smoothly during conversion and that your final product is professional-looking. Let’s get started!
Why Proper Formatting is Crucial for Ebook Conversion
Before using a conversion tool, ensure your manuscript is formatted correctly. This step minimizes errors and ensures your ebook looks great on any device.
What Does Formatting Involve?
Formatting involves refining your document—removing unnecessary elements like extra spaces or adding features such as page breaks or a clickable table of contents. You can either outsource this task to professionals or handle it yourself using a step-by-step guide.
The Ultimate List of Ebook Conversion Services
This list covers a variety of free and paid options, ranging from simple tools to advanced software tailored for authors and publishers.
1. PublishDrive
If you’re after simplicity and efficiency, PublishDrive is an excellent choice. Their free ebook converter ensures your manuscript meets self-publishing standards and creates polished EPUB or MOBI files.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI
- Price: Free
What sets PublishDrive apart is its all-in-one self-publishing platform, offering distribution to major retailers like Amazon, libraries, and even audio channels like Spotify.
2. Online-Convert
Online-Convert is ideal for those needing a range of file types. This tool has been around for years and supports over 30 formats.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF, AZW, FB2, and more
- Price: Free for basic conversion; paid for advanced features
3. Reedsy
Reedsy Book Editor stands as a free, user-friendly tool to edit and format manuscripts. It‘s perfectly ideal for authors to have a highly polished final product, ready to sell in the market.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF
- Price: Free
4. Scrivener
Scrivener is indeed more than just a converter; it‘s an incredibly powerful writing software designed more for a research book or even a screenplay.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF
- Price: Starts at $65
5. BookBaby
BookBaby is a comprehensive service offering expert formatting and conversion. Their team ensures quality control, making it a trusted partner for indie authors.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF, and more
- Price: Starts at $299 for 200 pages
6. Convertio
Convertio offers simple ebook conversion with advanced options like encryption protection for an added layer of professionalism.
- Formats: PDF, RTF, ODT, and more
- Price: Starts at $9.99 per month
7. 48 Hour Books
This premium service uses a manual approach for high-quality ebook conversions, making it ideal for authors who prioritize precision.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI
- Price: Starts at $200
8. Pro Global Business Solutions
For customized conversion and formatting, Pro Global Business Solutions delivers tailored services. Their team also offers design support for a polished final product.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF
- Price: Custom pricing
9. PaperTrue
PaperTrue provides a holistic approach to ebook conversion, covering formatting, design, and compatibility across devices.
- Formats: EPUB
- Price: Starts at $384
10. Ebookifi
Ebookifi specializes in hand-coded conversions, optimizing ebooks for various devices and platforms with a quick turnaround time of 72 hours.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF
- Price: Starts at $140
11. Sheridan
Sheridan offers conversion and distribution services, ensuring your ebook is accessible across platforms and devices.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF, XML
- Price: Custom pricing
12. Damco
Damco services global publishers in all types of digital formats, including ebooks, e-journals, and e-brochures.
- Formats: EPUB, HTML, EPUB3, PDF
- Price: Custom pricing
13. CloudConvert
For trouble-free users, CloudConvert supports over 200 file types, making it one of the most versatile free tools out there.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF, and more
- Price: Free
14. FreeConvert
As its name suggests, FreeConvert allows easy conversion for over 30 ebook file types.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF, and more
- Price: Free
15. eBooks2go
eBooks2go is a reliable service for both individual authors and publishers, offering extensive support for reflowable and animated ebooks.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI
- Price: Custom pricing
6. Vellum
Exclusive to Mac users, Vellum is an advanced tool for creating elegant, market-ready ebooks.
- Formats: EPUB, MOBI, PDF
- Price: Free to download; $199.99 to export
Choosing the Right Service for Your Needs
Selecting the right conversion tool depends on your budget, project complexity, and technical know-how. Free tools like Reedsy and CloudConvert are excellent for straightforward projects, while premium services like BookBaby or Ebookifi are ideal for complex needs.
Conclusion
With the right ebook conversion service, transforming your manuscript into a professional digital book is easier than ever. From free tools to full-service platforms, there’s an option for every author and publisher. Just remember, a polished ebook starts with proper formatting, so don’t skip that step. Happy publishing!
FAQs
- What’s the best format for ebooks?
EPUB is the most widely supported format, while MOBI is essential for Amazon Kindle. - Are free converters reliable?
Yes, for basic needs. However, professional services are better for complex projects. - Can I edit my ebook after conversion?
It’s possible but difficult. Always finalize your manuscript before conversion. - Which tool is best for beginners?
Reedsy and PublishDrive are beginner-friendly and free to use. - How long does the conversion process take?
Basic conversions can be instant, while manual services might take 2–7 days.