eLearning Strategies

Best ebook creator software for 2025

Read time: 30 min
Key takeaways

When it comes to ebook creation, choosing the right ebook design platform can make or break your project. Whether you’re an aspiring author, a marketer, or a course creator, your ebook needs to look professional, function across devices, and be easy to design.

Ask yourself:

Now, let’s dive into the top picks for 2025.

Choosing the best ebook creator tools for your business

Let’s be honest—choosing the right ebook creator software can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. But it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re crafting your very first ebook or you’re a seasoned creator ready to level up your publishing game, there’s a tool here that matches your style, skills, and goals.

From design powerhouses like Adobe InDesign to simple, user-friendly options like Canva and Calibre, I’ve gathered the best of the best to help you turn your ideas into beautifully designed, professional ebooks without the tech headaches.

1. Adobe InDesign

Image Source: SlideModel

Adobe InDesign is a professional desktop & digital publishing software that provides a comprehensive set of tools for designing print and digital publications. It offers advanced typographic controls, precise layout customization, and support for importing and exporting various file formats. InDesign integrates seamlessly with other Adobe Creative Suite applications, allowing for efficient workflows in creating books, magazines, brochures, and interactive PDFs.

It also offers a wide range of templates and design tools, and its features include paragraph and character styles, grid systems, master pages, and other interactive elements. With support for various formats, InDesign is suitable for both print and digital publishing projects and comes with many guide tutorials to help you get started.

Unique features

✔️ Professional-grade design tools
✔️ Precise layout control
✔️ Advanced typographic options
✔️ Seamless integration with other Adobe products

Pros
  • Ideal for complex, design-heavy ebooks
  • Vast library of templates and tutorials
  • Supports both print and digital

Cons
  • Steep learning curve for beginners
  • Pricier than other options

Supported formats

✔️ Adobe InDesign supports EPUB, PDF, HTML, XML, and more.
Operating system
✔️ Windows, MacOS

Templates

Offers a wide range of customizable templates for various ebook types.

Pricing

Adobe InDesign has a 7-day free trial. There are different pricing plans for individuals, businesses, students & teachers, schools & universities.

For Individuals:

There is also the option to buy Creative Cloud All Apps:

For businesses, it offers the Creative Cloud All Apps, which includes business features. The prices change depending on how many licenses you need:

For students and teachers, there is a discount of 65% on the entire collection of Creative Cloud All Apps:

For schools and universities, there is a discount of 65% on the entire collection of Creative Cloud All Apps:

Education plans: Adobe offers affordable licensing options for small workgroups, departments, classrooms, labs, and entire institutions. Creative Cloud All Apps includes 20+ creative apps, like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Acrobat Pro, plus AI-powered content creation tools and centralized software management.

To access Adobe InDesign, you will first need to set up a free Creative Cloud membership. There are two types of membership: the Single App plan or the Creative Cloud All apps, which has the entire collection of tools.

*Pricing information retrieved from Adobe InDesign on April 28th, 2025

2. Calibre

Image Source: Calibre

Calibre is a versatile ebook management tool that allows you to organize, convert, and manage your ebook libraries. It supports a wide range of ebook formats and provides features for editing metadata, organizing collections, and syncing with e-reader devices. Calibre includes tools for converting ebooks between formats, enabling you to optimize the reading experience across different devices.
Additionally, it offers plugins for extending functionality and customization options for the user interface. Calibre is compatible with multiple operating systems, and its open-source nature and user-friendly interface make it a popular choice for ebook enthusiasts and authors alike.

Unique features

✔️ Comprehensive ebook management
✔️ Conversion and editing capabilities
✔️ Open-source software

Pros
  • Completely free
  • Supports nearly all ebook formats
  • Plugins for endless customization

Cons
  • Basic design options
  • Slightly dated interface

Supported formats

✔️ Calibre supports EPUB, MOBI, PDF, PRC, HTML, RTF, and more.

Operating system

✔️ Windows, macOS, and Linux

Templates

It comes with a unique Calibre template language and advanced formatting options.

Pricing

Calibre is open-source and completely free to use.

*Pricing information retrieved from Calibre on April 18th, 2025

3. Scrivener

Image Source: Literature and Latte

Scrivener is a powerful writing software designed for authors, screenwriters, and researchers. It offers advanced organization tools, a customizable interface, and support for managing long-form writing projects. With export options for EPUB, MOBI, and PDF formats, Scrivener is ideal for those looking to create complex and structured ebooks.
Its features include an environment for organizing research, notes, outlines, and drafts, allowing users to break down their writing into manageable chunks. Scrivener offers customizable templates for various writing projects, such as novels, screenplays, and academic papers. It also includes tools for outlining, character and plot development, version control, and seamless integration with reference materials.

Unique features

✔️ Designed specifically for long-form writing projects
✔️ Offers advanced organization tools (like corkboard and binder views)
✔️ Built-in research storage: keep notes, images, and references alongside your writing
✔️ Flexible export options for multiple ebook formats

Pros
  • Perfect for authors, screenwriters, researchers, and novelists
  • Allows you to organize complex projects into manageable pieces
  • Supports distraction-free writing with customizable layouts
  • Easy to compile manuscripts into professional ebook files (EPUB, MOBI)

Cons
  • Requires a learning curve to master all features
  • No direct publishing or distribution features (export-only)
  • A separate purchase is needed for the iOS app if you want mobile access

Supported formats

✔️ EPUB, MOBI, PDF, DOCX, RTF, TXT

Operating system

✔️ Windows, macOS, iOS

Templates

The tool offers built-in templates for novels, screenplays, research papers, nonfiction books, and more. You can also find third-party custom templates online.

Pricing

Scrivener comes with a 30-day free trial, and you can purchase it in the following ways:

*Pricing information retrieved from Scrivener on April 18th, 2025

4. Sigil

Image Source: Sigil-ebook

Sigil is an open-source ebook editor known for its editing capabilities via a WYSIWYG editor and its ability to visualize changes in real-time, offering a code view for advanced users to directly edit the underlying HTML and CSS. This ebook maker allows users to create and edit EPUB files with ease, making it a valuable tool for authors and publishers.
With cross-platform compatibility and customizable templates, Sigil offers flexibility and control over ebook creation. The platform has a user-friendly interface with features for formatting text, adding images, and embedding metadata. Additionally, it provides validation tools to ensure compatibility with different e-reader devices and platforms.

Unique features

✔️ Open-source EPUB ebook editor
✔️ WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editor for easy visual editing
✔️ Full HTML and CSS editing for advanced customization
✔️ Built-in validation tool to ensure EPUB compliance
✔️ Supports both EPUB2 and EPUB3 formats

Pros
  • Completely free and open-source
  • Great for users who want complete control over ebook formatting
  • Real-time preview and editing capabilities
  • Lightweight and runs smoothly across Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • Community-driven with plugin support for extended functionality

Cons
  • Limited to EPUB file creation (no MOBI, PDF support)
  • Not as beginner-friendly as drag-and-drop platforms like Canva
  • Requires a basic understanding of HTML/CSS for advanced customizations

Supported formats

✔️ EPUB (both ePub 2 & ePub 3), HTML (for editing inside the EPUB structure)

Operating system

✔️ Windows, macOS, Linux

Templates

No pre-built design templates. However, users can create their own templates and reuse customized styles across projects

Pricing

100% free (open-source software)
Downloadable directly from the Sigil GitHub Repository or official website

*Pricing information retrieved from GitHub on April 18th, 2025

5. Pressbooks

Image Source: Lireo Designs

Pressbooks is a web-based ebook publishing platform that simplifies the process of creating and distributing professional-quality ebooks. It offers intuitive design tools, collaborative editing features, and seamless integration with ebook distribution platforms. It also has customizable templates, themes, and styles for designing book layouts and covers.
With support for EPUB, MOBI, and PDF formats, Pressbooks is suitable for self-publishing authors and small publishers. The platform includes tools for importing, editing, and organizing content, with support for multimedia elements and interactive features. Authors can collaborate with editors and reviewers using built-in collaboration tools and export their books to various formats.

Unique features

✔️ Web-based ebook creation and publishing platform
✔️ Intuitive, user-friendly editor (similar to WordPress)
✔️ Collaborative writing and editing features
✔️ Built-in tools for metadata management and copyright information
✔️ Easy export to multiple ebook and print formats (EPUB, MOBI, PDF)

Pros
  • No need to install anything—fully cloud-based
  • Ideal for multi-author projects, course creators, and educators
  • Offers professional-grade design themes for ebooks and print books
  • Integrates easily with LMS (Learning Management Systems) for academic publishing
  • Allows direct distribution to major ebook retailers

Cons
  • Free version includes watermarks (paid plans needed for watermark-free exports)
  • Limited customization compared to desktop design software like Adobe InDesign
  • Paid per book/project, which can add up if you publish often

Supported formats

✔️ EPUB, MOBI, PDF, XHTML, XML

Operating system

✔️ Web-based (accessible on any OS)

Templates

Offers a variety of customizable professional book themes. Templates available for fiction, nonfiction, academic publishing, and open educational resources (OER). You can tweak styles like fonts, headings, spacing, and colors.

Pricing

Pressbooks comes with a 7-day free trial and the following pricing plans:

*Pricing information retrieved from PressBooks on April 18th, 2025

6. Vellum

Image Source: Vellum

Vellum is a macOS-only ebook formatting tool designed to create beautifully formatted ebooks and print books with minimal effort. It offers intuitive design tools and pre-designed templates for various book formats, allowing you to focus on content creation. With Vellum, you can use drop caps and embed fonts, import manuscripts easily, and preview your ebooks to see how they appear across devices.
The tool includes features for customizing typography, layout, and styling, with real-time previews to visualize the final output. It also provides seamless export options for publishing to multiple e-book platforms and print-on-demand services.

Unique features

✔️ Elegant, intuitive ebook and print book formatting tool
✔️ Real-time preview feature to see how your book looks on different devices
✔️ Built-in styling options for chapters, headings, block quotes, ornamental breaks, and more
✔️ Automatic handling of ebook layout elements like table of contents, links, and image optimization
✔️ One-click export to multiple formats for wide distribution

Pros
  • Extremely easy to use, even for non-designers
  • Creates beautiful, professional-looking ebooks and print-ready PDFs
  • Offers a selection of stylish, customizable book templates
  • Saves authors huge amounts of formatting and troubleshooting time
  • Perfect for fiction and non-fiction authors alike

Cons
  • Only available for macOS users (no Windows or web version)
  • No built-in cover design tools (requires an external tool for cover creation)
  • Higher upfront cost compared to other options

Supported formats

✔️ EPUB, Kindle format (MOBI/KFX), PDF (for print)

Operating system

✔️ macOS

Templates

A range of elegant, customizable style templates for different genres and book types. You can tweak fonts, headings, paragraph styles, and ornamental flourishes with ease

Pricing

Vellum offers a one-time purchase model: No subscriptions. Pricing details are not publicly available. Interested users must book a demo or contact Vellum directly to get a personalized quote.

*Pricing information retrieved from Vellum on April 18th, 2025

7. Canva

Image Source: Canva

Canva is a popular, user-friendly graphic design tool that offers a wide range of templates and design elements for creating visually appealing ebooks. Its drag-and-drop interface and extensive library of images and fonts make it easy to customize ebook covers and interiors. It supports various formats and is suitable for authors and designers.
Canva also includes features for collaborating with team members, sharing designs, and exporting high-quality graphics for both print and digital formats. It also provides integration with various publishing platforms and social media networks.

Unique features

✔️ Drag-and-drop design platform with thousands of ready-made templates
✔️ Dedicated ebook templates for covers, pages, and full layouts
✔️ Access to an enormous library of stock images, fonts, icons, and design elements
✔️ Collaborative editing for teams and shared projects
✔️ Integration with publishing, marketing, and social media platforms

Pros
  • Extremely beginner-friendly—no design skills required
  • Huge selection of free and premium ebook templates
  • Seamless cloud-based access (design from desktop, tablet, or mobile)
  • Great for creating both ebook covers and full-page layouts
  • Excellent for marketing assets too (social posts, email graphics, landing pages)

Cons
  • Limited control over deeper ebook formatting (e.g., EPUB or MOBI files—mainly PDF output)
  • Best for visually-driven ebooks rather than text-heavy or complex publishing projects
  • Some premium templates and elements require a paid subscription

Supported formats

✔️ PDF (Standard & Print), PNG, JPG, SVG (for Pro users), MP4 for animated designs

Operating system

✔️ Web-based, and accessible on Android and OS devices (iPad, iPhone, etc)

Templates

Thousands of free and premium templates specifically for ebooks. Customizable layouts to create unlimited ebooks for fiction, business guides, workbooks, whitepapers, and more. Ability to create fully custom designs from scratch and upload your own images.

Pricing

*Pricing information retrieved from Canva on April 18th, 2025

8. Kindle Create

Image Source: KDP.Amazon

Kindle Create is a free ebook formatting tool provided by Amazon for authors publishing ebooks on Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). It simplifies the formatting process with its user-friendly interface and automatic conversion features. Supporting the EPUB format for different Kindle devices, it streamlines the ebook publishing process for self-publishing authors, who can easily publish their ebooks to the Kindle Store directly from the application.
The tool allows importing Word documents, adding interactive elements such as drop caps and images, and customizing styles and layouts. Kindle Create also includes tools for previewing how the book will appear on Kindle devices and guides for optimizing the reading experience for Kindle readers.

Unique features

✔️ Official ebook formatting tool from Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
✔️ Streamlined import from Word documents (.doc/.docx)
✔️ Automatic conversion to Kindle-ready formats
✔️ Real-time preview on Kindle devices and apps
✔️ Built-in support for interactive features like drop caps, image alignment, and table of contents

Pros
  • 100% free to use—no hidden fees
  • Seamless integration with Kindle Direct Publishing (publish directly from the app)
  • Great for beginners looking to publish quickly on Amazon
  • A clean, minimal interface that makes formatting easy
  • No need to worry about file compatibility with Kindle devices

Cons
  • Only supports Kindle/EPUB format (no PDF or MOBI exports)
  • Limited customization compared to tools like Vellum or Adobe InDesign
  • Not ideal for advanced formatting or complex design needs

Supported formats

✔️ EPUB (for Kindle)
✔️ Input: Word (.docx) files

Operating system

✔️ Windows, macOS

Templates

Built-in formatting themes: Classic, Modern, and others. Styles are simple and clean, optimized for Kindle readability. Users can’t create fully custom themes—limited to the provided layout presets.

Pricing

Kindle Create is 100% free to download and use on both Windows and macOS. You can format and publish ebooks to Amazon without any software cost.

*Pricing information retrieved from Amazon on April 18th, 2025

9. Pages

Image Source: Apple Support

Pages (formerly iBooks Author) is a word processing and page layout application developed by Apple, available on macOS and iOS devices. It offers a user-friendly interface with advanced typography tools, templates, and design features for creating documents, reports, and digital books.
The tool includes collaboration tools for real-time editing and commenting, as well as seamless integration with iCloud for syncing documents across devices. Authors can export their work in various formats compatible with Apple devices and other publishing platforms.

Unique features

✔️ Apple’s native word processor with powerful layout and formatting tools
✔️ Built-in ebook export to EPUB format
✔️ Cloud syncing across all Apple devices (Mac, iPhone, iPad)
✔️ Real-time collaboration with others via iCloud
✔️ Templates for ebooks, reports, and brochures

Pros
  • Completely free for Mac and iOS users
  • Familiar interface for Apple users—great for simple, polished ebook layouts
  • Seamless export to EPUB format with just a few clicks
  • Supports multimedia embedding (images, video, audio)
  • Great option for authors creating books for Apple Books

Cons
  • Available only on Apple devices—not accessible for Windows users
  • Less advanced formatting control than Adobe InDesign or Vellum
  • EPUB export options are basic (limited customization)

Supported formats

✔️ Pages (proprietary format), DOCX, PDF, EPUB (export only)

Operating system

✔️ macOS, iOS

Templates

Includes templates for novels, newsletters, reports, and resumes. Users can customize styles and save their own templates. Additional templates are available through third-party marketplaces.

Pricing

Pages is included for free on all macOS and iOS devices, and is also available for free via iCloud.com for web access.

*Pricing information retrieved from Authors Apple on April 22nd, 2025

10. Kotobee Author

Image Source: Kotobee Support

Kotobee Author is a comprehensive ebook authoring software that allows users to design online and create interactive ebooks enriched with multimedia content, eg, quizzes, and simulations. Its easy-to-use interface, customizable templates, and robust security features make it suitable for educational institutions, corporate training, and digital publishing projects.
The tool also includes features for customizing navigation and layout. Authors can publish their e-books to various platforms and devices, including web browsers, mobile apps, and e-reader devices. It supports EPUB, MOBI, and HTML5 formats, offering added flexibility and creativity in ebook creation.

Unique features

✔️ Specializing in creating interactive, multimedia-rich ebooks
✔️ Supports embedding quizzes, videos, widgets, and simulations
✔️ Export to multiple formats, including web apps, mobile apps, and desktop readers
✔️ Built-in ebook viewer for testing and previewing interactivity
✔️ Secure ebooks with DRM and user access controls

Pros
  • Great online tool for education, training, and corporate publishing
  • Allows for high interactivity (ideal for learning materials)
  • Flexible output: EPUB, MOBI, PDF, web app, Android/iOS apps, desktop apps
  • Customize navigation menus, branding, and interactive elements
  • Option to integrate with LMS or external platforms

Cons
  • More complex to use than simpler ebook creators like Canva or Google Docs
  • Best features (interactivity, export flexibility) are available only in paid versions
  • Requires some learning time to master full functionality

Supported formats

✔️ EPUB, MOBI, PDF, HTML5, Android & iOS app export, Desktop app export (Windows/macOS)

Operating system

✔️ Windows, macOS

Templates

Offers a variety of customizable ebook templates for different use cases. Templates include options for textbooks, training manuals, and interactive guides. Additional design services are available through Kotobee.

Pricing

The tool offers a free plan with limited access to basic authoring tools and the following paid ones:
Basic plan: From $150 (one-time fee, single user license)
Premium plan: From $300 (adds app exports and more customization)
Institutional plan: From $2,000+ for large teams or educational institutions (pricing varies depending on a number of users and export options)

*Pricing information retrieved from Kotobee on April 22nd, 2025

11. BookWright

Image Source: All About Planners

BookWright is a free ebook publishing software provided by Blurb, a platform designed for creating and publishing print books and ebooks. With its intuitive interface and customizable templates, BookWright enables authors to create professional-quality ebooks for print-on-demand and digital distribution.
The tool comes with various design tools, multiple layout options, customizable styles, and fonts, as well as the ability to add images and text. It supports the PDF format and offers integration with Blurb’s distribution network, further simplifying the ebook publishing process.

Unique features

✔️ Free desktop software from Blurb for creating print books and ebooks online
✔️ Drag-and-drop interface with easy text/image layout tools
✔️ Direct publishing to Blurb for print-on-demand and digital sales
✔️ Integrated ISBN registration and distribution options (Amazon, Apple Books, etc.)
✔️ Supports fixed-layout formatting (great for photography and art books)

Pros
  • 100% free to use with no subscription fees
  • Ideal for image-rich books (photo books, art portfolios, magazines)
  • Built-in integration with Blurb’s print and ebook publishing services
  • Offers trim sizes and templates for both standard and custom books
  • Can be used offline (desktop app)

Cons
  • Requires a Blurb account to publish and distribute
  • EPUB export is supported only for fixed layout (not reflowable)
  • Not as robust for text-heavy or interactive ebooks

Supported formats

✔️ PDF, Fixed-layout EPUB (for Apple Books and similar platforms)

Operating system

✔️ Windows, macOS

Templates

As one of the best free ebook creators, it comes with a wide range of layout templates for cookbooks, travel books, photo books, and more. Templates are fully customizable. You can start from scratch or use guided wizards.

Pricing

BookWright is completely free to download and use. Pay only for printing or distribution via Blurb’s platform (cost depends on book specs). Additional fees apply for ISBN, expanded distribution, and optional services.

*Pricing information retrieved from Blurb on April 23rd, 2025

12. Jutoh

Image Source: Jutoh

Jutoh is a cross-platform ebook creation tool that offers a range of features for formatting and publishing ebooks. Its WYSIWYG editor, support for multiple formats (including EPUB and MOBI), and built-in ebook viewer make it a versatile solution for authors and publishers seeking flexibility and ease of use.
Jutoh includes templates and stylesheets for consistent formatting, as well as tools for adding images, tables, and footnotes. Also, it offers features for validating ebooks and optimizing them for compatibility with different e-reader devices. On top of that, it comes with various features for formatting, styling, and previewing the final output of an ebook.

Unique features

✔️ Cross-platform ebook creation tool with a focus on flexibility and speed
✔️ Built-in WYSIWYG editor with support for styles, footnotes, tables, and images
✔️ Real-time ebook preview with built-in viewer
✔️ Customizable stylesheets and automatic table of contents generation
✔️ Supports ebook validation and accessibility features

Pros
  • Works on Windows, macOS, and Linux—great cross-platform support
  • Fast and lightweight with offline functionality
  • Generates multiple formats from a single project
  • Ideal for authors who want more control without overwhelming complexity
  • Includes tools for importing from Word, OpenOffice, or HTML

Cons
  • UI feels slightly dated compared to more modern tools
  • Formatting customization has a learning curve
  • Lacks integrated publishing or marketing features

Supported formats

✔️ EPUB, MOBI, PDF, HTML, ODT, DOCX (import), TXT

Operating system

✔️ Windows, macOS, Linux

Templates

Users can create reusable templates and stylesheets for consistent formatting. Includes sample projects and starter templates for books, manuals, and reports.

Pricing

There are many versions of the Jutoh platform with different pricing options:

Educational pricing is available for students and institutions.

*Pricing information retrieved from Jutoh on April 23rd, 2025

13. Google Docs

Image Source: 9to5Google

Google Docs is a cloud-based word processing application and online document editing platform provided by Google that offers basic formatting options for creating e-books. It supports DOCX and PDF formats, and offers features for formatting text as well as many font styles to choose from, adding images and links, and tracking changes, with seamless integration with other Google Workspace applications.
While limited in advanced design features, Google Docs is a convenient option for collaborative ebook creation and sharing. It allows users to create, edit, and collaborate on documents in real-time, making it suitable for collaborative writing projects such as co-authoring books or sharing drafts with editors. It has the same capabilities as Microsoft Word, and it’s accessible via a Gmail account.

Unique features

✔️ Cloud-based word processor with real-time collaboration
✔️ Accessible on any device with a browser or mobile app
✔️ Seamless integration with other Google Workspace apps (Drive, Slides, Sheets, etc.)
✔️ Automatic saving and version history
✔️ Export to multiple formats, including PDF and DOCX

Pros
  • Completely free for personal use
  • Excellent for co-authoring or editor collaboration
  • Easy to use with a familiar interface
  • Supports comments, suggestions, and live editing—perfect for team projects
  • Great for simple ebook drafts and early formatting

Cons
  • No native EPUB or MOBI export (requires external conversion tool)
  • Not ideal for advanced design, layout, or publishing
  • Limited templates and styling compared to Canva or InDesign

Supported formats

✔️ DOCX, PDF, RTF, TXT, ODT, HTML (via download), No direct EPUB/MOBI export

Operating system

✔️ Web-based & Mobile (accessible on any OS or Android device)

Templates

Limited template selection (resumes, reports, newsletters). You can create and reuse your own layouts and also combine with Canva or Designrr for design-heavy formatting.

Pricing

Educational plans are available for schools and universities (Google Workspace for Education).

*Pricing information retrieved from Google Docs on April 23rd, 2025

14. FlipHTML5

Image Source: SoftwareAdvice

FlipHTML5 is a versatile digital publishing platform that allows the creation of interactive ebooks, magazines, catalogs, and more. Its HTML5-based technology, customizable templates, and multimedia capabilities make it an ideal choice for creating engaging digital publications for online distribution.
The tool converts PDF documents into interactive HTML5-based flipbooks and offers customization options for designing flipbooks with multimedia elements, animations, and custom branding. It also includes features for publishing flipbooks online, embedding them on websites, and sharing them via social media and email. With it, you can track reader engagement and analytics to optimize your content and distribution strategies.

Unique features

✔️ Converts static PDFs into interactive HTML5 flipbooks
✔️ Supports multimedia integration: videos, audio, links, forms, and animations
✔️ Cloud publishing and hosting for web-based reading experiences
✔️ SEO-friendly settings, including custom meta info and Google Analytics integration
✔️ Offers offline reading options (downloadable flipbooks)

Pros
  • Creates visually dynamic, page-turning ebooks and catalogs
  • Great for marketing materials, magazines, product brochures, and interactive guides
  • Easy embedding on websites or sharing via URL and QR codes
  • Offers brand customization, password protection, and private sharing
  • Built-in analytics to track views, clicks, and engagement

Cons
  • Focused on flipbook-style content—not suited for traditional long-form ebook reading
  • Free plan includes FlipHTML5 branding and limited features
  • No EPUB or MOBI export—not ideal for Kindle publishing

Supported formats

✔️ PDF (upload and convert)
Output: HTML5, ZIP, EXE, APP (for offline), WordPress plugin

Operating system

✔️ Web-based (accessible on any OS)

Templates

Wide variety of flipbook templates with different styles and interactive features. Customizable themes: colors, buttons, navigation, backgrounds. You can create branded templates for consistency across publications.

Pricing

The platform has a free plan (limited features, includes FlipHTML5 watermark) and offers both monthly and annual subscription options:

Annual discount available: Up to 30% off on yearly subscriptions

*Pricing information retrieved from FlipHTML5 on April 23rd, 2025

15. Draft2Digital

Image Source: Draft2Digital

Draft2Digital is an ebook distribution platform that simplifies the process of publishing and distributing ebooks to multiple retailers like Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. It has an easy-to-use interface and simplified ebook formatting options, allowing you to create ebooks easily and quickly.
While primarily focused on distribution, Draft2Digital offers basic formatting tools and support for EPUB, MOBI, and PDF formats. With it, you can also create cover designs, manage metadata, track sales and royalties, and optimize book listings for discoverability and marketing purposes.

Unique features

✔️ An aggregator platform that formats and distributes ebooks to major retailers (Amazon, Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, and more)
✔️ Automatic, professional ebook formatting with customizable templates
✔️ One-click publishing across platforms
✔️ Author dashboard for royalties, reports, and sales tracking
✔️ Free Universal Book Link (UBL) to share your book with one link

Pros
  • 100% free to use—only takes a cut of royalties
  • Incredibly easy to format and publish without technical knowledge
  • Wide distribution without needing multiple retailer accounts
  • Built-in tools for series management, end-matter generation, and custom metadata
  • Friendly, transparent terms with no hidden fees

Cons
  • Less control over formatting compared to dedicated design tools like Vellum or InDesign
  • Focused solely on digital distribution—no native print support (Print Beta available but limited)
  • Not suited for highly interactive or multimedia-rich content

Supported formats

Input: DOC, DOCX, RTF
Output: EPUB, MOBI, PDF (for review)

Operating system

✔️ Web-based (accessible on any OS)

Templates

Auto-formatting with layout presets (chapter headers, title pages, end pages). Templates are clean and professional, but not deeply customizable. You can add branding, author notes, and promo pages automatically.

Pricing

Draft2Digital is free to use but gets a percentage on each book you sell. The platform gets 10%, the stores that sell your book 30%, and you get to keep the remaining 60% of the list price of your book.

*Pricing information retrieved from Draft2Digital on April 23rd, 2025

16. Ulysses

Image Source: MakeUseof

Ulysses is a distraction-free writing environment designed to boost writing productivity. With its advanced organization tools and seamless export options, Ulysses is ideal for authors seeking a focused writing experience. It includes features like full-screen mode, typewriter scrolling, customizable themes, and typography settings.
The platform offers a minimalist interface with organizational tools for managing writing projects, including folders, tags, and filters. The app provides seamless synchronization between devices via iCloud, ensuring users can access their work anywhere. With its focus on simplicity, flexibility, and productivity, it is suitable for writers of all genres and skill levels.

Unique features

✔️ Clean, distraction-free writing environment with Markdown support
✔️ Unified library to manage all writing projects in one place
✔️ Advanced organizational tools: goals, filters, tags, and folders
✔️ Seamless sync across macOS, iPadOS, and iOS via iCloud
✔️ Export to multiple formats including EPUB and PDF with customizable styles

Pros
  • Sleek, intuitive interface perfect for focused writing
  • Encourages daily writing habits with goals and progress tracking
  • Markdown support simplifies formatting
  • Flexible export options for blog posts, articles, and ebooks
  • Native Apple integration makes it smooth across devices

Cons
  • Apple ecosystem only (no Windows or Android version)
  • Requires subscription (no one-time purchase)
  • Formatting control is more limited than design-first tools like Vellum or InDesign

Supported formats

Export: EPUB, PDF, DOCX, RTF, Markdown, HTML
Import: DOCX, Markdown, Plain Text

Operating system

✔️ macOS, iOS

Templates

Comes with clean, modern export themes. You can create or import custom stylesheets for EPUB and PDF exports. Ideal for simple, clean ebook formats rather than elaborate designs.

Pricing

Ulysses has both monthly and annual subscriptions that cost $5.99 and $39.99 respectively. This pricing applies to the U.S. and may vary depending on your location. To find out how much it costs in your country, you need to check the App Store.

*Pricing information retrieved from Ulysses on April 23rd, 2025

17. Atticus

Image Source: Atticus.io

Atticus is another minimalist writing tool focused on providing a distraction-free writing experience. It supports DOCX, PDF, and TXT formats, and offers basic formatting options and a clean interface for authors to focus on their writing. While limited in advanced features, Atticus is a lightweight option for authors seeking simplicity in their ebook creation process.
The platform offers real-time collaboration features and version control tools, enabling authors to track changes, revert to previous versions, and merge edits seamlessly. Atticus also provides commenting and annotation tools for feedback and discussion, as well as task management features for assigning roles and deadlines. Focused on collaboration and communication, Atticus facilitates efficient teamwork and coordination in writing projects of any scale.

Unique features

✔️ Cloud-based writing and ebook formatting software built specifically for authors
✔️ Combines book writing, editing, and layout in a single platform
✔️ Works on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebook
✔️ Built-in chapter organization, goal tracking, and writing timer
✔️ Exports print-ready PDF and reflowable EPUB files with customizable themes

Pros
  • Great all-in-one solution for writing and formatting
  • Cross-platform access—works in your browser and offline
  • Simple, elegant interface (similar to Scrivener + Vellum combined)
  • Easy-to-use formatting themes for professional results
  • One-time purchase—no subscription required

Cons
  • Still evolving (new features being added over time)
  • No multimedia or interactive ebook makers support yet
  • Requires internet access to access some advanced features

Supported formats

✔️ DOCX, PDF, TXT

Operating system

✔️ Web-based (accessible on any OS)

Templates

Pre-made themes for fiction, nonfiction, and memoirs. Users can customize fonts, headings, scene breaks, margins, and more. New theme builder tool allows you to create your own book design styles.

Pricing

One-time purchase: $147 (lifetime license for all future updates)
No subscription required
30-day money-back guarantee available

*Pricing information retrieved from Atticus on April 23rd, 2025

18. Designrr

Image Source: Designrr.io

Designrr is a fast and flexible ebook creation platform designed for marketers, coaches, and educators. It allows you to convert existing content, such as blog posts, PDFs, Google Docs, or even YouTube video transcripts, into professional ebooks with just a few clicks. With a user-friendly, drag-and-drop editor, users can design lead magnets, reports, whitepapers, and more without any design experience.
Designrr also supports flipbook-style exports, email opt-in forms, and analytics to track engagement, making it ideal for content creators focused on audience growth and conversion. Whether you’re designing a lead magnet or turning a blog series into an ebook, Designrr helps streamline the content-to-ebook process.

Unique features

✔️ Converts blog posts, PDFs, Docs, and YouTube videos into ebooks
✔️ One-click import from URLs, transcripts, or Facebook posts
✔️ Built-in flipbook creator and 3D cover design tools
✔️ Supports multimedia embedding and animations
✔️ Email opt-in form integration and engagement analytics

Pros
  • Extremely fast for repurposing existing content
  • No design skills needed; ideal for marketers
  • Includes hundreds of professionally designed templates
  • Offers flipbooks, PDF, and EPUB output
  • Affordable lifetime deal options are available

Cons
  • Limited layout flexibility compared to design tools like InDesign
  • Not ideal for long-form or narrative-heavy ebooks
  • Advanced features require a Pro or Premium plan

Supported formats

✔️ PDF, EPUB, HTML5 Flipbook, Kindle formats (via export)

Operating system

✔️ Web-based (accessible on any OS)

Templates

Includes 100+ ebook templates for lead magnets, reports, and whitepapers. All templates are customizable in terms of layout, branding, colors, and fonts. Users can also design covers and interactive elements using built-in tools.

Pricing

*Pricing information retrieved from Designrr on April 23rd, 2025

19. Visme

Image Source: Visme.co

Visme is a visual content creation platform that allows users to design professional ebooks, presentations, infographics, and interactive content. With a focus on storytelling and branding, Visme is particularly popular among marketers, educators, and content teams that want to combine data, design, and communication into polished digital assets.
What sets Visme apart is its intuitive drag-and-drop editor, dynamic visual elements, and the ability to add interactive features like clickable links, video, audio, and quizzes. Visme ebooks are ideal for sharing online or embedding in websites, especially for marketing and lead generation.

Unique features

✔️ Create ebooks, presentations, and infographics from a single platform
✔️ Access to a vast library of icons, illustrations, animations, and stock content
✔️ Add interactivity: pop-ups, embeds, forms, and media
✔️ Team collaboration tools, analytics, and brand kits
✔️ Multiple sharing options including private links and embed codes

Pros
  • Versatile—not limited to just ebooks
  • Drag-and-drop simplicity with professional-grade results
  • Ideal for marketers and agencies focused on visuals and branding
  • Interactive features add value for lead magnets and gated content
  • Includes analytics for engagement tracking

Cons
  • Limited EPUB or print formatting support (PDF only)
  • Some premium templates and features require a paid plan
  • Best suited for short-form or highly visual ebooks

Supported formats

✔️ PDF, HTML5 (web publishing), MP4 (animated content)

Operating system

✔️ Web-based (works on any browser/device)

Templates

Hundreds of ebook templates, plus layouts for whitepapers, presentations, and reports. All templates are editable with Visme’s visual design editor, and users can brand content using logos, fonts, and color themes.

Pricing

Free plan: Basic templates and limited storage
Starter plan: $12.25/month (billed annually)
Pro plan: $24.75/month (adds analytics, brand kit, download options)
Team plan: $49.75/month per user (collaboration, permissions, team templates)

*Pricing information retrieved from Visme on April 23rd, 2025

20. Kitaboo

Image Source: Kitaboo.com

Kitaboo is a digital publishing and content delivery platform tailored for publishers, educational institutions, and enterprises. It offers powerful features for creating interactive ebooks enriched with audio, video, assessments, and analytics. Kitaboo is widely used in the academic and corporate training sectors for its robust distribution, DRM, and mobile accessibility features.
Kitaboo enables publishers to convert PDF or EPUB content into engaging digital books and distribute them securely across platforms. With SCORM compliance, white labeling, and offline access, Kitaboo provides a reliable solution for large-scale content delivery and interactive learning experiences.

Unique features

✔️ Supports multimedia-rich ebooks with video, audio, assessments, and hyperlinks
✔️ Secure cloud-based distribution with DRM protection
✔️ SCORM and LTI compliant for LMS integration
✔️ Analytics and engagement tracking tools
✔️ White labeling and branded reader apps for iOS, Android, and web

Pros
  • Ideal for interactive and educational publishing
  • Advanced DRM and secure content delivery
  • Offers branded mobile reading apps for institutions and enterprises
  • SCORM and LMS integrations make it perfect for training and edtech
  • Offline reading capabilities for end users

Cons
  • Primarily built for large-scale use—not suitable for individual authors
  • Pricing is not transparent and varies by institution size and features
  • Requires onboarding and setup for institutional use

Supported formats

✔️ EPUB, PDF, SCORM, HTML5

Operating system

✔️ Web-based + native mobile apps (iOS & Android)

Templates

Custom design templates for academic textbooks, corporate training manuals, and interactive learning guides. Full white labeling is available for enterprise clients.

Pricing

Pricing is available upon request and tailored based on organization type, size, and usage
Free demo available for evaluation
Contact Kitaboo sales for enterprise and institutional quotes

*Pricing information retrieved from Kitaboo on April 23rd, 2025

21. Flipbuilder

Image Source: Flipbuilder.com

Flipbuilder is a digital publishing platform that turns static PDFs into interactive flipbooks with animated page-turn effects. It’s designed for businesses, marketers, and educators looking to publish visually engaging digital content—including brochures, magazines, reports, and ebooks. Flipbuilder stands out for its sleek digital reading experience and flexible sharing options.
You can enhance your flipbooks with videos, images, links, and animations, and then publish them online, offline, or via local networks. With desktop software and cloud hosting available, Flipbuilder offers multiple ways to distribute digital publications and measure reader engagement.

Unique features

✔️ Converts PDFs into animated HTML5 flipbooks
✔️ Supports multimedia elements (videos, links, images, audio)
✔️ Custom branding options: logos, backgrounds, navigation controls
✔️ Offline publishing via EXE, APP, CD/DVD, and USB
✔️ Flipbook cloud hosting and analytics for Pro users

Pros
  • Creates eye-catching, magazine-style ebooks
  • Interactive features improve user engagement
  • Can be published as standalone apps or embedded on websites
  • No design experience needed—beginner-friendly
  • Great for catalogs, lookbooks, and marketing documents

Cons
  • Flipbook format not suitable for long-form narrative reading
  • Free plan includes Flipbuilder watermark
  • EPUB and MOBI are not supported—not ideal for Kindle or Apple Books

Supported formats

✔️ Input: PDF
✔️ Output: HTML5, ZIP, EXE, APP, WordPress plugin

Operating system

✔️ Windows, macOS (via Flip PDF Plus)

Templates

Includes pre-made templates and themes for flipbooks, brochures, and catalogs. Users can fully customize navigation bars, animations, and page layout styles.

Pricing

*Pricing information retrieved from Flipbuilder on April 23rd, 2025

How to create an ebook: checklist & essential tips

Before you start building your ebook, make sure to check out the following tips and suggestions we’ve prepared to help you on every stage of your ebook creation process.

Producing the ebook content:

Designing and formatting your ebook:

Reviewing and optimizing your ebook:

Promoting your ebook:

💁‍♂️ Need more guidance? Check our 8-step ebook creation guide for beginners.

Create stunning ebooks: Ready to start working on yours?

Creating an online ebook is not as difficult as it seems, and getting all the help you can get from any ebook creator software makes the entire process a lot easier. This list of ebook creator tools presents several options to choose from, and you may pick the one that suits you best.
Google Docs and Canva are for you if you want a simple and easy-to-use solution that removes the complex technicalities in the middle. Then again, if you are more experienced and want to go all in to get the full suite, you can opt in for Adobe InDesign.

Take ebook creation to the next level to create professional ebooks that sell, print books, and bring your best content pieces forward.

Start working on your own ebook today. Try LearnWorlds for free and find out how to make it happen!

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Rosemary Georgarakou - Content Marketing Manager LearnWorlds

Rosemary is LearnWorlds’ Content Marketing Manager. She has over 2 decades of experience in omnichannel marketing and content writing for the IT and SaaS industry. Her expertise lies in crafting effective content marketing strategies that attract, engage, and nurture customers, enabling LearnWorlds to reach its target audiences with precision.

FAQ

Everything you have ever wondered, but where too afraid to ask...

What are ebook creator tools?
Ebook creator tools are software or online platforms designed to assist users in creating, formatting, and publishing ebooks. These tools offer a range of features to simplify the ebook creation process, including formatting options, design templates, and distribution capabilities.
Why should I use ebook creator tools?
Ebook creator tools streamline the ebook creation process, making it easier for authors, publishers, content creators, and course creators to produce professional-quality ebooks. These tools often provide customizable templates, formatting options, and distribution channels, saving time and effort while ensuring a polished final product.
What features should I look for in ebook creator tools?
When choosing an ebook creator tool, consider features such as formatting capabilities, design templates, supported file formats, ease of use, and distribution options. Look for tools that offer flexibility, customization, and compatibility with your specific needs and preferences.
How do I choose the right ebook creator tool for my project?
To choose the right ebook creator tool, assess your project requirements, such as the type of content you’re creating, your budget, and your technical expertise. Research different tools, read reviews, and consider factors like user interface, available features, and customer support before making a decision.
Can I create different types of ebooks with ebook creator tools?
Yes, ebook creator tools typically support the creation of various types of ebooks, including fiction and non-fiction books, textbooks, manuals, reports, and more. Many tools offer customizable templates and formatting options to accommodate different ebook genres and styles.
Do I need design or technical skills to use ebook creator tools?
While some ebook creator tools may require basic design or technical skills, many are designed with user-friendly interfaces and intuitive features that make ebook creation accessible to users of all skill levels. Beginners can often create professional-quality ebooks with minimal experience or training.
Are there free ebook creator tools available?
Yes, there are several free ebook creator tools available, including open-source software and online platforms that offer basic ebook creation features at no cost. While free tools may have limitations compared to premium options, they can still be effective for simple ebook projects or if you are on a tight budget.
Can I publish and distribute ebooks created with ebook creator tools?
Yes, many ebook creator tools include built-in publishing and distribution options, allowing you to publish and distribute your ebooks directly from the platform. Alternatively, you can export your ebooks in common file formats and distribute them through other channels, such as ebook retailers or your own website.
What is the best software to create an ebook?
It depends on your goals. For professional layouts, Adobe InDesign is a top choice. If you're writing long-form content, Scrivener or Atticus are great. For fast content repurposing, Designrr is ideal. Beginners love Canva or Google Docs, while Vellum is perfect for polished EPUB exports, especially for fiction and self-publishing.
How can I create my own ebook?
Start by outlining your content and writing your chapters using tools like Google Docs, Scrivener, or Ulysses. Then format your ebook with a design tool like Canva, Atticus, or InDesign. Export it to formats like PDF or EPUB, and distribute it through platforms like Amazon KDP, Draft2Digital, or your own website.
Is making an ebook profitable?
Yes, ebooks can be a powerful revenue stream. Many authors, coaches, and course creators earn passive income by selling ebooks, offering them as lead magnets, or bundling them with online courses. Profitability depends on your niche, content quality, and how well you market your ebook.
Can ChatGPT create ebooks?
ChatGPT can help you draft content, brainstorm ideas, outline chapters, edit copy, and even rewrite paragraphs—but you'll still need a publishing tool to format and export your ebook into EPUB or PDF. Combine ChatGPT with Scrivener, Atticus, or Designrr for a complete creation workflow.
What is the most efficient and effective software for creating .epub ebooks?
Top choices for .EPUB creation include Vellum (for Mac users), Jutoh (cross-platform), and Scrivener (long-form writing). These tools offer clean EPUB exports, formatting control, and are built with authors in mind.
What is the best software for creating e-books?
There’s no one-size-fits-all. Here are the top picks by category:
Best interactive ebook publishing software
If your ebook includes quizzes, videos, or interactive navigation, go for Kotobee Author or Kitaboo. For marketing-style flipbooks, FlipHTML5 or Flipbuilder are strong choices. These tools let you embed multimedia, create interactive hotspots, and even integrate with LMS platforms.
What program do you use/recommend for creating ebooks?
For general ebook creation, I recommend Atticus as it blends writing and formatting in one tool and works across devices. For highly designed ebooks or lead magnets, Canva or Designrr are excellent. And if you're focused on fiction or self-publishing to Kindle, Vellum is tough to beat (if you're on Mac).