So far in our self-publishing series, we’ve explored everything from book covers to bookshops. But not all publishing happens between two covers anymore, in fact, a lot of it doesn’t even happen in print at all.
This month, we’re delving into online self-publishing platforms. The websites, newsletters, and digital spaces where writers are building audiences, sharing stories, and sometimes even making a bit of money.
And while there’s a lot to love about digital publishing, there are also a few things to watch out for, from content ownership to creative burnout.
So, here’s your guide to some of the most popular online self-publishing platforms, what they’re great for, and what you need to know before you click “publish.”
Substack
What is it?
Substack lets you write posts that go straight to readers’ inboxes. Think of it as a newsletter meets blog, with built-in payment options if you want to offer paid subscriptions.
Pros
- You own your subscriber list .
- You can publish on your own schedule
- You can earn money through paid subscriptions (you set the price).
- Clean interface that’s easy to use, even if you’re not techy.
Cons
- Growth is slow unless you already have an audience.
- The focus is on consistency so you need to be prepared to commit long-term.
- You’re responsible for your own editing, formatting, and marketing.
- Substack takes 10% of your paid income, and Stripe (the payment processor) takes another small cut.
Protect your work
Substack does not own your content, but you still need to back it up yourself, especially if you’re sharing original fiction. It’s worth adding a copyright line to each post, just in case.
Wattpad
What is it?
Wattpad is a platform for uploading fiction chapter-by-chapter, often while you’re still writing it. It has a huge global audience and strong communities in YA, romance, sci-fi, and fantasy.
Pros
- Huge audience and reader interaction.
- You can grow a fanbase from scratch, especially if you’re writing popular tropes or genres.
- Great for testing ideas and building writing discipline.
- Some stories get picked up by publishers or adapted for screen.
Cons
- No upfront pay. It’s about exposure, not income (unless you’re in Wattpad’s paid programme, which is invite-only).
- The algorithm often favours already-popular stories.
- If you’re writing anything literary, niche, or experimental, it may struggle to find readers here.
Protect your work
Wattpad’s terms don’t take your rights, but once something’s public, it can be copied, even accidentally. Keep backups, consider watermarking longer content, and use a copyright notice.
Medium
What is it?
Medium is a clean, distraction-free writing platform for articles and essays. Writers can earn through the Partner Program based on how much time paying Medium members spend reading their posts.
Pros
- Smart design! Your words look instantly polished and extra fancy.
- Medium’s algorithm and tags can help readers find your work.
- Partner Program offers potential income (based on “member reading time”).
Cons
- Earnings can be very low unless your posts go semi-viral.
- Medium can change its algorithm or payment model at any time.
- You don’t own the mailing list, it’s Medium’s audience, not yours.
Protect your work
Medium allows you to retain all rights, but again, it’s wise to cross-post carefully. If you want to reuse content elsewhere (e.g. on Substack), wait a few days or reword it slightly.
Archive of Our Own (AO3)
What is it?
AO3 is a nonprofit, volunteer-run archive for fanfiction. It’s a beloved space for fan writing and has some of the best user protections available.
Pros
- Built by and for writers, no ads, no paywalls, no algorithms.
- Strong emphasis on freedom of expression and user control.
- You can tag your work in minute detail so the right readers find it.
- Excellent protections for non-commercial, transformative works.
Cons
- Only for fanfiction (not original fiction).
- No payment, this is purely for community and joy.
- You’ll need to request an invite to join.
Protect your work
AO3 respects your rights, but always be aware that posting work publicly is still publishing, even if it’s not for profit. If you later want to adapt a fanfic into something original, make sure you haven’t locked yourself into something you can’t legally sell.
Ko-fi
What is it?
Ko-fi (as in “buy me a coffee”) is a platform where fans can support your work through one-off donations or subscriptions. You can also post blog-style updates, digital downloads, and shop items.
Pros
- Simple setup, no fees taken from one-off tips (unless you’re using Ko-fi Gold).
- You can post blog content, offer downloads, or sell digital goods (like short stories or zines).
- Great for visual creators too (illustrators, poets, zine-makers).
Cons
- Discoverability (is that a word??) is low. People won’t just stumble on your page.
- Works best if you already have a small fanbase or social media presence.
- To access some features, you’ll need to upgrade to Ko-fi Gold (£6/month).
Protect your work
Make sure you clearly state your copyright and set boundaries for how your content can be used especially if you’re offering downloads or early access material.
Patreon
What is it?
Patreon is a membership platform where fans pay monthly to access exclusive content. Think behind-the-scenes posts, sneak peeks, bonus chapters, or early access.
Pros
- Reliable monthly income if you build a base of loyal readers.
- Excellent for building a “writing ecosystem” with different tiers.
- Strong sense of community and you can reward fans in creative ways.
Cons
- Very hard to grow without existing followers.
- Requires constant content .
- Patreon takes a percentage of your earnings (5–12%, depending on your plan).
Protect your work
As with Ko-fi, always include copyright info, and consider whether you’re happy for paying members to reshare your content (or not). You can watermark files, limit downloads, or post in parts.
So Which One Is Right for You?
Well, that’s up to you, and what you need as a writer. One of the best ways to work that out is to first explore these sites as a reader. Pootle around the online thoroughfares and get a sense for each platform. If you enjoy interacting with it as a reader, that’s a good indicator you’ll enjoy it as a writer. Similarly, if you hate using the site, then it’s probably for you. It can be a bit like the wild west out there, so take it slow and get to know the lay of the land before you upload your work to an unknown platform. Stay safe, be brave and, most importantly, have fun!
Moor Imagination 