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| Tool | Best for |
|---|---|
| Vellum | Best on Mac |
| Atticus | Best on Windows and Chromebook |
| Draft2Digital | Best free option for wide publishing |
| Kindle Create | Best free option for Amazon only |
Vellum
The best-looking default styles, and the fastest way from Word file to finished book.
- ✓The best-looking default styles of any formatter
- ✓Very fast to learn
- ✓One payment, free to try until you export
- ✗Mac only
- ✗Print needs the more expensive Press edition
Atticus
Ebook and print formatting on any computer for $147 once.
- ✓Runs on Windows, Mac, Linux and Chromebook
- ✓Cheaper than Vellum and includes print
- ✓Lets you write and format in the same place
- ✗No free trial
- ✗Fewer ready-made styles than Vellum
Draft2Digital
Free EPUB and print PDF files, plus distribution if you want it.
- ✓Formatting is free
- ✓One dashboard for wide distribution
- ✓Universal Book Links are handy for ads and social posts
- ✗Fewer layout templates than Vellum or Atticus
- ✗Print is paperback only, no hardcover or color
Kindle Create
Amazon's own tool, free, uploads straight to KDP.
- ✓Free
- ✓Made by Amazon, so files pass KDP checks
- ✓Handles print and ebook
- ✗Output is meant for Amazon only
- ✗Known problems with tables, lists and footnotes
How we picked
We checked every price on the vendor's own site on the date at the bottom of this page.
We looked at what a self-published author needs from this kind of tool, not at feature counts.
We list the downsides of every pick, including the ones we earn a commission on.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best free book formatting software?
Kindle Create if you only sell on Amazon, Draft2Digital if you publish wide.
Is Vellum worth it?
If you have a Mac and publish more than one book, yes. On Windows, Atticus does most of the same for less.
Related guides on iWrity
Prices and features checked on 2026-10-09. Vendors change plans often, so confirm on their site before you buy.
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