Harmony Publishing vs Outskirts Press
Outskirts Press is a long-running US self-publishing company offering packages, printing and distribution.
Short version. Outskirts Press and we do broadly the same kind of work: packages that bundle editing, design, printing and distribution. The differences that matter are what each package contains, who is named as publisher of record, and what royalty share is taken. Ask all three, of any provider, before you commit.
Side by side
| Harmony Publishing | Outskirts Press | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A full-service self-publishing company | A full-service self-publishing company |
| Entry price | From $699 (Essentials) | Package pricing; several tiers |
| What the entry price includes | Cover design, interior layout, ISBN, distribution setup, 100% royalties | Check the inclusions list for each tier |
| Royalties | You keep 100% | Check the current terms |
| ISBN and publisher of record | Registered in your name or your own imprint | Check who is named as publisher of record |
| Editing | Copyediting and proofreading from Premium; developmental from Rockstar | Available as package inclusion or add-on |
| Printing | Included; priced per copy on specification | Included in packages |
| Distribution | Worldwide, set up in your name | Available |
| Best for | Authors who want clear ownership terms in writing | Authors who want a long-established US provider |
Competitor descriptions reflect their published service structure at the time of writing and may change. Check current terms directly. Our prices are on the cost page.
Three questions to ask any provider
Including us. The answers decide more about value than the headline price:
- Ask who the publisher of record will be. If it is not you or your imprint, understand why before you sign.
- Ask what royalty share they take. Any percentage of your sales is a cost that compounds over the life of the book.
- Ask whether you receive your editable source files. If you cannot take your book elsewhere later, you are locked in.
On all three, our answer is: you are the publisher of record, we take no royalties, and you receive your print-ready and editable files.
Frequently asked questions
Is Outskirts Press cheaper than Harmony Publishing?
Compare packages on inclusions rather than headline price. The three questions that decide value are the same for both: what is included, who the publisher of record is, and what royalty share is taken.
Who owns my book?
With us, you do — fully. The ISBN is registered in your name or your imprint, you are the publisher of record, you keep 100% of royalties, and you receive your editable and print-ready files.
What should I compare?
Bring the two inclusions lists side by side, price the difference, and check the royalty terms. Our packages and prices are published, so the comparison is direct.
Can I get my files and move later?
With us, yes — you receive your print-ready proof PDF, your editable interior and your cover files. Ask any provider to confirm that before you sign.