Side by side
BookSetter vs Folio Studio
Both stand on book layout software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Web
BookSetter combines manuscript formatting, proof review and validation reports in a web workflow. Its beta has tight eligibility limits, and marketplace distribution is not included.
Visit BookSetter
Free plan LinuxMacWeb+1
Folio Studio brings manuscript structuring, layout, and cover preparation into a browser-based workflow. Compare the plan limits and export needs before choosing a tier.
Visit Folio StudioThe facts
| BookSetter | Folio Studio | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | See the plans | Pro: €9 a month |
| Plans published | 7 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | booksetter.com | foliostudio.app |
| On book layout software | #9 of 28 | #5 of 28 |
BookSetter: what it does well
- Accepts ten manuscript formats, including DOCX and LaTeX.
- Exports can include EPUB and print-ready PDF.
- Reports cover accessibility and file validation.
- Optional AI suggestions remain reviewable.
- Formatting failures under stated conditions may be fixed or refunded.
What to know first
- Free beta is limited to eligible verified creators.
- Free beta allows one account-bound manuscript package.
- Does not upload or distribute books to retailers.
- Regular single-book package costs $49 per book.
Folio Studio: what it does well
- Imports Markdown, DOCX, ODT, and PDF.
- Offers 15 templates with real-time preview.
- Free plan includes epub export.
- Cover tools calculate spine width and bleed.
- Runs in modern browsers without installation.
What to know first
- Free plan allows one active project.
- Starter costs €499 a month.
- Illustrated-book allowances vary by plan.
Alternatives to BookSetter Alternatives to Folio Studio The whole list