📖 KDP print production
Amazon KDP paperback cover size calculator
Calculate full wrap dimensions, spine width, bleed, and spine text eligibility for paperback cover files before you open your design app.
| Trim size | Black and white | Standard color | Premium color |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 x 8 | 24-828 pages | 72-600 pages | 24-828 pages |
| 5.5 x 8.5 | 24-828 pages | 72-600 pages | 24-828 pages |
| 6 x 9 | 24-828 pages | 72-600 pages | 24-828 pages |
| 8.5 x 11 | 24-590 pages | 72-600 pages | 24-590 pages |
These ranges summarize the most common KDP paperback sizes. Always confirm the live KDP help page before publishing.
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, I receive a commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The size of a book range based on the kind of book. In the United States you commonly use 6 in 9 inches for paperbacks, what is standard format. You also call it trade paperback size.
Other popular kind is the mass-market paperback with typical 4.25 in 6.87 inches. Older paperbacks usually have around 4 to 5 inches by 7 to 8 inches.
Common Book Sizes and Cover Measurements
Size of book causes the number of pages. Small and maximum page counts depend on that. For instance, change of 6 in 9 to 5 in 7 inches can give more pages and a thick spine.
On a finished paperback, the cover has same size as pages. So if pages are 6 in 9, the front cover will be 6 inches wide and 9 inches high. If you prepare cover file with bleed, add 0.125 inches to the top, bottom and outside edge.
For exact spine, cover, and page measurements use a special calculator. They depend on page count, trim size, and paper type.
Hardcover books often surpass paperbacks in size and give a nice impression with durability. They usually fall between 6 in 9 and 8.5 in 11 inches, but variety exists. You first determine cover dimensions based on trim size.
Printers can work with many sizes, of small A6 pocketbooks until big A4 landscape books. Textbooks commonly choose 6 in 9 or 8.5 in 11 inches for well show charts, tables and photographs.
Designers commonly take template for ready print cover. It shows exactly the needed size and bleed at every side. When you set file, it is more well to make cover a bit too big and then small it down than vice versa.
For 70 pages novel 5.25 in 8 or 5.5 in 8.5 inches. Many profit from a trip to bookshop to check usual sizes for books in specific genres. That helps to see difference between formats in person.

