Converting an ebook from EPUB format to MOBI format allows the ebook to be read on Amazon Kindle devices and apps. This guide explains what EPUB and MOBI formats are, why you may need to convert between them, and how to easily convert EPUB ebooks to the MOBI format.
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What are EPUB and MOBI ebook formats?
EPUB (Electronic Publication) is the most widely supported ebook format. EPUB files use XHTML structure and CSS styling, support reflowable text to adapt to different screen sizes, and can include multimedia elements like images, audio, and video. EPUB is supported by most ebook readers except Amazon Kindle.
MOBI is Amazon’s proprietary ebook format, used exclusively on Kindle devices and apps. MOBI files are similar to EPUBs in structure and functionality, using KF8 formatting. But MOBI does not support some advanced EPUB features like audio/video and scripting.
Why convert EPUB to MOBI?
There are two main reasons you may need to convert an EPUB ebook to the MOBI format:
- To read an EPUB ebook on a Kindle device/app – Since Kindle doesn’t support EPUB format natively, you need to convert to MOBI first.
- To sell an ebook through Amazon Kindle Store – Amazon requires ebooks submitted to Kindle Direct Publishing to be in MOBI/AZW format.
So if you have an EPUB ebook you want to read on your Kindle, or publish to sell on Amazon, converting to MOBI is essential.
How to convert EPUB to MOBI
There are several easy methods to convert your EPUB files to MOBI format. Here are some popular options:
Online conversion tools
- CloudConvert – Simple drag and drop interface to convert EPUB files instantly online.
- Zamzar – Supports batch conversion and advanced settings for fine-tuning quality.
- Online Convert – Allows choosing target Kindle device to optimize formatting.
Downloadable software
- Calibre – Open source ebook library manager and conversion tool, great for batch jobs.
- Kindle Previewer – Amazon’s official tool can preview and convert ebooks for Kindle.
- ePUBee Converter – Fast, user-friendly converter for Windows and Mac.
Full ebook conversion services
- BookBaby – End-to-end ebook publishing services including high-quality conversion.
- Scribe Media – Custom ebook design and conversion for authors by professionals.
The process for using these tools is generally very simple:
- Upload your EPUB ebook file(s).
- Choose MOBI as the output format.
- Download the converted MOBI ebook.
Some tools also allow customizing conversion settings or options to tweak image compression, metadata, etc.
Conclusion
Converting EPUB ebooks to the MOBI format can be done quickly and easily using free online tools, downloadable software like Calibre, or full professional conversion services. This allows your ebook to be read on Amazon Kindle and opens up the world’s largest ebook marketplace.
The most user-friendly method is typically online converters like CloudConvert that allow drag and drop uploads and downloads. But Calibre offers the most flexibility for advanced batch jobs. Professional services ensure perfect conversions and distribution-ready files.
So if you have EPUBs you want to get onto your Kindle, publish on Amazon, or sell through other retailers that use MOBI, converting the format is a must. This guide covered the what, why and how – now you’re ready to transform your ebooks in seconds!
