eBook Files - what they are and different formats.

In recent years, reading digital versions of novels and articles on computers and handheld devices has become more and more popular. This guide will explain what the eBook format is and also highlight common eBook file types, what are they used for, as well as their pros and cons.

What you’ll learn.

What is an eBook file?

eBook files are digital files that contain books in a digital format. They are designed to be viewed on various electronic devices, such as eReaders, tablets, computers and smartphones. Although eBook files will primarily be text-based in most cases, you can find images, audio and even videos in many of them.

Currently, there are over 60 eBook file types available on the market. Many of these eBook file formats are open and can be viewed on multiple devices, while some are proprietary, which means they can only be accessed by using specific hardware or software.

Common eBook file extensions include .EPUB, .PDF, .AZW3, .MOBI, .IBA and .RTF.

What are eBook files used for?

Creating and publishing eBooks.

Authors and publishers use eBook files to create eBooks from scratch, publish them and sell them in eBook shops. You can create your own eBook and export it to the eBook file format of your choice using various software. Design applications like Adobe InDesign or even webpage editing software like Dreamweaver, can be utilised here.

Reading and storing eBooks.

Although eBook files support HTML, CSS and SVG elements, they are primarily used to access and store eBooks. You can buy eBooks through online bookshops and then download the eBook files on your device. To start reading, you’ll need to have install eReader software such as Adobe Digital Editions (ADE).

Official documentation.

Many organisations use the eBook format, especially the .EPUB file type, to publish research studies or official business documents. This might especially be the case if they are long, extensive files - and/or designed for public consumption.

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Learn more about eBook files.

Specific eBook extensions each have their own various uses and quirks.

.EPUB - The open standard format for eBooks, developed by the International Digital Publishing Forum (IDPF).
.MOBI - Amazon’s proprietary format, typically used for their devices and marketplace.

Advantages and disadvantages of eBook files

When working with or accessing these file types, there are some benefits and challenges to be aware of.

Advantages.

Widely supported on different devices and operation systems. Aside from eReader devices, eBook files can often be accessed on computers, tablets and even smartphones. They are also typically compatible with most operating systems like Windows, macOS, Android, Fire OS etc.
Reflowable format. Most eBook file formats have a reflowable layout, which means the text flows to perfectly fit on all screens, giving you a comfortable reading experience. You can increase or decrease the font size, as the line break changes and the text automatically aligns on the page accordingly. This way, you can read without zooming, panning or pinching.
DRM (Digital Rights Management). You can make your eBook file more secure and embed DRM copyright protection to prevent unauthorised viewing, copying and sharing of your work.

Disadvantages.

May require specific software. To download, open and store eBook files on your device, you might need to have the appropriate software for the file type install.
May require upgrades. As technologies are evolving fast, you might have to upgrade your eBook files quite often. Failing to do so could lead to loss of files and/or their formatting.

Can I turn my eBook into a PDF?

You can turn your eBook into a PDF online, with Adobe Acrobat. To do this:

Go to Adobe Acrobat’s convert to PDF page.
Drag and drop the eBook file you want to convert or select the File button to navigate to your document.
Wait a few minutes, then your new PDF should be ready.
Download or share it.

PDFs can provide a highly versatile, professional and compatible format for eBooks.

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eBook FAQs.

What is the best eBook file format?

One of the most popular eBook file formats out there is .EPUB. It became an official standard in 2007 and is the most used eBook file extension across the digital publishing industry. Publishers send EPUBs to eBook shops for selling and writers are requested to use this format to send their work. You can generally read a .EPUB file on any device that has an eBook reader application install.

Is an eBook just a PDF?

An eBook can be exported with many types of file extension, including .PDF. However, while eBooks are mainly designed to be read on an eReader and can adapt to different screen sizes, PDFs are ideal for exchanging and reading documents in general - not just eBooks.

Which is better - PDF or EPUB?

PDF and EPUB are both open standard file formats. Both can be used to support eBooks, however they have different purposes, so choosing one of these two formats to work with depends on what you want to do. EPUB is a widely utilised format for publishing, reading and storing eBooks. But PDF’s ability to let you add pages or merge files together can be useful for building out an extended eBook document. Plus, if you want to design an eBook to then print or make an eBook with lots of illustrations, PDF could be the right format for you.

How can I convert a document into an eBook?

You can convert almost any document into an eBook using certain software or an online document convertor tool. To do it online, simply:

Go to your online convertor website (make sure that you choose one that is secure and reputable)
Drag the document you wish to turn into an eBook
Select the eBook extension of your choice
Wait for the conversion
Download or share your new eBook.

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