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Audiobook Distribution: Should You Go Exclusive with Audible or Go Wide?

Scribe Media · 2 min read
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Once your audiobook is produced, the next major decision is where to distribute it. Choosing the right distribution strategy can impact your earnings, audience reach, and long-term success. At Scribe Media, we help authors navigate this choice by breaking it down into two main options.

Option 1: Exclusive Distribution with Audible

Audible (owned by Amazon) is the dominant player in the audiobook industry, controlling 60–65 percent of the market. Going exclusive with Audible means your audiobook will only be available on:
  • Audible
  • Amazon
  • Apple Books

This option comes with key benefits:
  • Higher Royalties: Exclusive audiobooks earn a higher royalty rate (typically 40 percent) compared to non-exclusive audiobooks (which earn 25 percent).
  • Amazon and Audible Visibility: Since Amazon prioritizes Audible-exclusive content, your audiobook may receive better placement in search results.
  • Stronger Sales Potential: If your goal is to maximize direct revenue, this option typically leads to higher earnings per sale.
However, exclusivity means your audiobook won’t be available on other major platforms, limiting your ability to reach listeners who prefer alternatives to Audible.

Option 2: Broad Distribution with Author’s Republic

If your priority is reaching as many listeners as possible, wide distribution is the better strategy. Instead of being exclusive to Audible, your audiobook will be available on nearly sixty different platforms, including:
  • Google Play Books
  • Kobo Audiobooks
  • Chirp
  • Scribd
  • Libraries and Subscription Services

Going wide offers distinct advantages:
  • Maximized Audience Reach: Your audiobook is accessible to listeners who use platforms beyond Audible.
  • Library and Subscription Access: Many audiobook listeners borrow books from libraries or use subscription services like Scribd, Exclusivity to Audible would block these opportunities. 
  • More Control Over Your Book’s Future: If you want the flexibility to change distribution strategies later, wide distribution provides that freedom.
The tradeoff? You’ll receive a lower royalty rate than on Audible (25 percent instead of 40 percent), but your audiobook will be available to a much broader audience.

Which Strategy Is Best for You?

Your choice comes down to your goals.
  • If your priority is revenue per sale → Exclusive with Audible is the best option.
  • If your priority is audience reach and long-term growth → Wide distribution through Author’s Republic is the way to go.

How Scribe Media Helps You Make the Best Choice

At Scribe Media, we don’t just help you produce a high-quality audiobook. We also guide you through the distribution process. We break down your options, help you weigh the pros and cons, and ensure your audiobook reaches the right audience in the best possible way.

No matter which path you choose, we make sure your audiobook is set up for success.
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