Publishing on B&N and Kobo at the Same Time—What Authors Need to Know
Question:
Can I publish and sell the same book on Barnes and Noble and also Kobo?
Answer:
Yes, you can publish and sell the same book on both Barnes & Noble and Kobo—here’s how it works and what to watch out for:
1️⃣ No Conflict Between B&N and Kobo
Barnes & Noble Press and Kobo Writing Life are independent platforms.
Neither requires exclusivity, so you can publish the same eBook or print book on both.
2️⃣ Exclusive Programs to Watch Out For
Amazon KDP Select requires exclusivity for eBooks sold through Amazon, but that doesn’t affect B&N or Kobo if you aren’t in KDP Select.
Just make sure you are not in any program that restricts where your eBook can appear.
3️⃣ Pricing & Regional Differences
Kobo and B&N may have different royalty structures and minimum/maximum prices.
You can sell at different prices on each platform, but it’s best to keep it reasonable so buyers don’t feel cheated.
4️⃣ Format Considerations
Barnes & Noble eBooks use EPUB files for Nook devices.
Kobo eBooks also use EPUB.
Usually, the same EPUB file can be uploaded to both, but check formatting to ensure it displays correctly on both platforms.
5️⃣ Print vs eBook
If you have a print version, you can also sell that through B&N Press and other distributors, but Kobo only handles eBooks.
✅ Bottom line: There’s no restriction preventing you from selling your book on both Barnes & Noble and Kobo. Just avoid exclusive contracts elsewhere (like KDP Select), check file formatting, and manage pricing carefully.
