What are EPUB files?

Along with PDFs, EPUBs are a common file type when reading and storing eBooks.

Short for Electronic Publication, the EPUB format is widely compatible with different eBook readers, including Amazon’s Kindle devices since 2022.

These files are reflowable, with their content automatically reformatted to fit your chosen screen size. They can work across computers, mobile phones, tablets, and dedicated eReaders.

Here are some key features and uses for EPUB files.

  • Viewable across different devices: Most eBook readers should be able to recognise and display an EPUB.
  • No need to zoom in and out: When formatted as EPUBs, eBooks should automatically match the size of your chosen reading device.
  • Support for multimedia elements: EPUB files can contain videos and audio segments, although they mainly focus on written content, fonts, and imagery.
  • Easily accessible: EPUBs are generally open-source and based on HTML.

Learn more about EPUB files

Why convert an EPUB to Kindle?

First launched in 2007, Amazon’s Kindle devices have aimed to make digital reading a seamless and comfortable experience. They’ve gone through multiple generations, with each new version offering extra features like waterproofing and a stronger battery life.

Meanwhile, the Kindle apps allow people to access their personal library and read eBooks on the go from their mobile phone or tablet.

Kindles didn’t traditionally support the EPUB file format. But all that changed in 2022, when the two were made compatible.

With all that in mind, here are some common reasons to convert and send an EPUB to Kindle.

  • Add EPUB files to your Kindle library: Read personal documents, worksheets and other non-Amazon files via your Kindle account.
  • Self-publish your own eBooks: With Kindle Direct Publishing, it’s easy to upload your own novel or non-fiction book. This service now supports manuscripts that are saved in the EPUB format.
  • Benefit from Kindle tools: Adding EPUB files to your Kindle account gives you access to additional features, such as screenshots and built-in dictionaries.
  • Keep everything in one place: Along with an EPUB, you can upload PDF, DOC, HTML, PNG and JPG files to your Kindle library. Keeping them all together could speed up your workflows and make everything more accessible.

epub to kindle illustration

How to send an EPUB to Kindle.

To send an EPUB to Kindle, you’ll need to go directly through Amazon. Here are some ways to do it.

Use the ‘Send to Kindle’ web tool.

  1. Head to the ‘Send to Kindle’ online tool.
  2. Check that your file is 200MB or lower in size. If not, you might want to convert to PDF and compress your file.
  3. Select your EPUB file or drag and drop it into the box.

Send your EPUB via email.

  1. Find your ‘Send to Kindle’ email address. To see this, navigate to ‘Manage Your Content and Devices’ > ‘Preferences’ > ‘Personal Document Settings’.
  2. Go to your personal email account and create a new email.
  3. Attach your EPUB to the email and send it to your Kindle address.

Share with the Kindle apps.

  1. Download the iOS or Android version of the Kindle app.
  2. Open your EPUB file and tap on the share icon.
  3. Ensure Kindle is selected as the sharing option.

Do I need to convert an EPUB to PDF before uploading to Kindle?

Since 2022, it’s been possible to send an EPUB file directly to your Kindle account. This means you don’t need to convert from EPUB to PDF first.

However, PDFs are another useful way to store and display eBooks and other digital documents. So, they’re well worth considering, along with EPUB files.

Here are some of the key benefits of the PDF format.

  • Maintaining formatting: The structure and style of a PDF are fixed. They don’t change between devices or users, so everyone sees the same thing.
  • Wide compatibility: Most devices can open and manage PDF documents.

Learn more about converting an EPUB file to PDF.

FAQs.

Is there a free EPUB to Kindle converter?

Yes, it’s free to convert from EPUB to Kindle using Amazon’s own ‘Send to Kindle’ tools. You can do this via its online tool, email, or the Kindle apps.

Once uploaded, your EPUB file should appear in your personal Kindle library.

Is an EPUB better than a PDF for eBooks?

It all depends on your personal preferences and the type of eBook you’d like to display.

An EPUB is reflowable, with the content designed to match your device and screen size automatically. As a result, it’s a popular format when storing and reading fiction.

On the other hand, a PDF has a fixed format, where each section stays the same, no matter which device you open it with. This can make PDFs useful for more formal documents, such as manuals or textbooks.

What are the disadvantages of an EPUB file?

Since EPUBs are reflowable, they’re designed to automatically fit the screen that you’re using. The main drawback is that complex formatting might not always appear as you planned. For example, tables or more intricate designs.

You might need specialist software to edit an EPUB too.

Useful PDF tools.

Convert between file formats and work smarter with Adobe Acrobat’s online tools and services.