As many self-published authors and avid readers know, some devices are compatible only with certain file formats.
One of the most common conversions readers or authors may have to perform is a change from .epub to .mobi, especially if a Kindle, the original and most popular e-reader, is involved.
Does Kindle Use Mobi or Epub?
Epub is the most widely used format for ebooks, but one place they don’t work is on Amazon Kindle devices. Amazon uses a format called AZW3, formerly MOBI.
This can be problematic if you’re an author launching an ebook, as Amazon accounts for 60–80% of all digital book sales. It can also be frustrating if you’re a reader who’s hoping to read their new ebook from Apple Books or Kobo on their Kindle device.
This means that if you want to publish your book via Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), or send your book to someone who wants to read it on their Kindle device, you’ll need to convert your epub file to mobi.
Fortunately, converting epub files to mobi files isn’t as complicated as it may sound.
How to Convert Epub to Mobi
Without further ado, here’s how to convert epub documents to mobi files:
1. Choose a converter tool, such as EPUB Converter.
Choose an ebook converter tool, such as EPUB Converter. (We’ll explore some more options in the next section, but for the sake of this example, we’ll use EPUB Converter.)
2. Upload your files.
On the EPUB Converter homepage, you’ll choose Add File.
Find and select the ePub file you need, then click Open. Your ePub file should then appear under File Name.
3. Start the conversion.
Click the Start Upload button, which will appear to the right of your file name.
Once the conversion is complete, click on the Download Link. The MOBI file will be downloaded and saved to your computer.
Other Converters
Below are several other free and paid tools that can quickly convert epub to mobi.
Calibre
Calibre is a free software that operates on Windows, macOS, and Linux to convert files to MOBI, AZW3, PDF, and many other formats.
Price: FREE
Any eBook Converter
Any eBook Converter is a free tool that can convert between EPUB, MOBI, PDF, HTML, AZW3, and other file types.
Price: FREE
Reedsy’s ePub to MOBI Converter
Reedsy’s free ePub to MOBI Converter allows users to quickly drag and drop their EPUB file to convert it to MOBI. They accept files up to 30Mb. Files remain private and are automatically deleted one day after processing.
Price: FREE
ZamZar
ZamZar is a partially free service that can convert thousands of file formats. With the free service, you can get 5 file conversions per day. Your converted files are saved for just 24 hours, so make sure you download them as soon as possible.
For more daily conversions, larger file uploads, and online storage, you can upgrade to a paid subscription.
Price: Ranges from free to $18.75/month
How Do You Convert Epub to Mobi on Kindle?
Kindle Previewer offers one of the easiest ways to convert epub files to mobi. The good news is that if you’re an author planning to publish through KDP, Amazon will automatically convert your files for you.
However, you’re still going to want to use Kindle Previewer to test out your file and see how it will look, because some special formatting may not translate very well.
What’s Better: EPUB or Mobi?
The most significant difference between epub and mobi files is that Amazon’s mobi format is protected by Digital Rights Management (DRM), which “locks” the book so it can be read only on devices that are associated with your account.
Despite being incompatible with Amazon Kindle, ePub is still considered the “universal” ebook format, as it works well withBarnes & Noble’s NOOK, Apple Books, Kobo, and Sony eReaders, which is why many experts recommend publishing your ebook in ePub format, then converting when needed.
Converting File Formats
Fortunately, converting files from epub to mobi is straightforward and simple with the right tools.
But what if you need to convert different types of files? Have no fear! Our post on converting old or uncommon file types will guide you through the process.
Did you find this post helpful? Let us know in the comments below!
If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:
- 16 Best Free Online PDF to Word Converters
- How to Convert Old or Uncommon File Types
- Microsoft Word Styles Tutorial: Learn to Streamline Your Formatting
- Book Submission Template: What to Include in Your Manuscript Submission File
As a blog writer for TCK Publishing, Kaelyn loves crafting fun and helpful content for writers, readers, and creative minds alike. She has a degree in International Affairs with a minor in Italian Studies, but her true passion has always been writing. Working remotely allows her to do even more of the things she loves, like traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family.
