Is an Audiobook Cover Different from an Ebook Cover?
Quick Answer: Yes. Audiobook covers are square (at least 2400 x 2400 pixels). Ebook covers are tall rectangles (1600 x 2560 pixels). The same artwork and visual identity can be used, but the composition must be rearranged to fit the square format. You can't simply crop a rectangular cover into a square without losing important elements.
The shape difference exists because audiobook covers display in grid layouts on Audible, Spotify, and Apple Books, alongside music album art. A tall rectangle wouldn't fit that layout, so every audiobook platform requires a square image.
At a Glance: Your Options
| Ebook Cover | Audiobook Cover | |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Rectangle (1600 x 2560 px) | Square (2400 x 2400 px minimum) |
| Platform | Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, Kobo | Audible, ACX, Spotify, Apple Books |
| File format | JPEG or TIFF | JPG, PNG, or TIFF |
| Max file size | No strict limit on most platforms | 5 MB (ACX) |
| Required text | Title, author name | Title, author name (must match audio credits) |
| Optional text | Subtitle | Subtitle, narrator name |
How to Create an Audiobook Cover from Your Ebook Cover
The quickest approach is to ask your ebook cover designer for a square adaptation. If they have the source files (layered PSD, Canva project, or AI file), this typically costs $50 to $150 and takes a few days.
If you're doing it yourself, create a new 2400 x 2400 pixel canvas in Canva or Photoshop, place the main image from your ebook cover, and reposition the title and author name for the square layout. Avoid adding borders to make a rectangle fit inside a square; ACX explicitly rejects bordered images.
Bottom Line
Audiobook and ebook covers share the same visual identity but require different formats. Budget $50 to $150 for a professional adaptation or 30 to 60 minutes for a DIY conversion. Make sure the title and author name match your audio credits exactly. For more on audiobook cover requirements, see Audiobook Cover Design: What Is Different.
Q: Can you use the same image for your ebook and audiobook cover? A: You can use the same artwork and visual elements, but you need to recompose them for the square format. Cropping the center of a rectangle usually cuts off the title or author name. Adapt the layout rather than crop.
Q: What size should an audiobook cover be? A: At least 2400 x 2400 pixels, square, in RGB color. JPG format is safest for staying under ACX's 5 MB file size limit. Designers often work at 3000 x 3000 pixels for extra sharpness and scale down for submission.