This free KDP cover size calculator gives you the exact full-wrap dimensions for an Amazon KDP paperback. Enter your trim size, page count and paper type to get the exact full-wrap cover dimensions KDP expects for a paperback: spine width, total width and height with bleed, pixel size at 300 DPI, and safe zones, plus whether your book is thick enough for spine text.
How to use the KDP Cover Size Calculator
- Choose a trim size, or enter a custom width × height in inches.
- Enter the page count.
- Select the interior and paper type.
- Choose the resolution and press Calculate cover size.
Check the KDP cover size calculator numbers against KDP’s own template before you upload. KDP’s full file requirements are on its Create a Paperback Cover help page.
KDP paperback cover formula
Example: 6 × 9 in, 200 pages, white paper
Spine = 200 × 0.002252 = 0.4504″. Width = 0.125 + 6 + 0.4504 + 6 + 0.125 = 12.7004″. Height = 9.25″. At 300 DPI that is 3,811 × 2,775 pixels.
Common KDP cover mistakes
- Designing only the front cover size. KDP needs a single full-wrap PDF (back, spine, front).
- Text too close to the trim or the spine folds. Printing can shift by up to 1/8″.
- Using the wrong paper type. Cream paper is thicker, so the same page count gives a wider spine.
- Low-resolution images. Keep all artwork at 300 DPI at final print size.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate KDP spine width?
Multiply the page count by the paper thickness: 0.002252″ per page for white paper, 0.0025″ for cream, and 0.002347″ for premium colour. For example, 300 pages on cream paper = 0.75″.
How many pages do I need for spine text on KDP?
KDP allows spine text only on books with at least 79 pages.
What is the cover size for a 6 × 9 paperback?
It depends on the page count. The height is always 9.25″ and the width is 12.25″ plus the spine width. For 200 white pages that is 12.7004″ × 9.25″.
Does this work for hardcover?
No. KDP hardcovers use a different wrap and hinge allowance. Use KDP’s hardcover cover template for those.
What is the paperback cover size with bleed?
Full cover width = bleed + back cover + spine + front cover + bleed, and height = trim height + 2 × bleed, with 0.125 in bleed. A 6 × 9 in book with a 0.5 in spine needs a 12.75 × 9.25 in cover.
What are KDP cover dimensions in pixels?
Multiply inches by 300 DPI. A 12.75 × 9.25 in cover is 3,825 × 2,775 pixels.
Does paper type change the KDP spine width?
Yes. KDP uses 0.002252 in per page on white paper (black ink or standard colour), 0.0025 in on cream paper and 0.002347 in for premium colour. A 300-page book on cream paper has a 0.75 in spine.
Related tools
Based on Amazon KDP’s published paperback specifications. Always verify with KDP’s cover template and previewer before publishing. Not affiliated with Amazon.