Publishing both hardcover and paperback editions doubles your potential revenue—but the covers aren't identical. Different trim sizes, spine calculations, and cover materials mean design adjustments are essential. This guide breaks down every technical difference so your covers pass KDP's review on the first try.
📐 Quick Spec Comparison
- Paperback trim sizes: 16 options (5×8" to 8.5×11")
- Hardcover trim sizes: 5 options (5.5×8.5" to 8.5×11")
- Hardcover spines: Consistently 0.28" wider than paperback
- Minimum pages with spine text: 79 for both formats
Trim Size Differences
KDP offers 16 paperback trim sizes but only 5 hardcover sizes. If you want to offer both formats, choose a size available in both.
One Design, Two Perfect Covers
KDPEasy automatically generates both paperback and hardcover versions from a single design. Correct specs guaranteed.
Create Both Formats Now
Written by Danielle Okonkwo
Marketing & Growth Lead at KDPEasy
Danielle is a published author with 12+ titles on Amazon KDP and a former book blogger. She writes KDPEasy's guides drawing from hands-on publishing experience and years of testing what actually works in the KDP marketplace.
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