EPUB vs PDF for Kindle: Which Format Should You Use?
By CreatorFormat Team
TL;DR: For Kindle and digital reading, use EPUB—it's reflowable, lightweight, and works perfectly on all devices. Use PDF only for print-ready manuscripts or documents requiring exact layouts. For Amazon KDP, upload EPUB for ebooks and PDF for print versions.
When publishing or reading eBooks on Kindle, choosing the right format is crucial. Should you go with EPUB or stick to PDF? In this guide, we break down the differences, advantages, and best use cases.
What is EPUB and PDF?
EPUB
- Reflowable format: Text adjusts to screen size
- Widely supported by eReaders, apps, and Kindle
- Lightweight and flexible for formatting
- Supports table of contents, hyperlinks, and metadata
- Fixed-layout format: Maintains original design
- Great for print-ready manuscripts
- Larger file size
- Less flexible on smaller screens
Key Differences Between EPUB and PDF for Kindle
| Feature | EPUB | |
|---|---|---|
| Text Reflow | Yes | No |
| Font Resizing | Yes | No |
| Device Compatibility | Kindle, iPad, smartphones | Kindle (limited), tablets, computers |
| File Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Layout Control | Flexible | Precise |
| TOC / Navigation | Interactive | Usually static |
When to Use EPUB
- Reading on Kindle devices or apps
- Distributing eBooks digitally
- When you need reflowable text for small screens
- For interactive content (links, footnotes, TOC)
When to Use PDF
- Print-ready manuscripts
- Preserving complex layouts (magazines, workbooks)
- Sharing files that require exact formatting
Pro Tip: For Amazon KDP, EPUB is generally preferred for eBooks, while PDF is for print versions.
Step 1: Convert PDF to EPUB for Kindle
- Upload PDF to CreatorFormat’s PDF to EPUB converter
- Choose EPUB output
- Customize fonts, line spacing, and trim size
- Preview using EPUB Viewer
This ensures your eBook looks perfect on Kindle devices.
Step 2: Preview Your EPUB
- Always preview before publishing
- Check headings, images, and page breaks
- Test interactive links and table of contents
- Use EPUB Viewer for quick online preview
Step 3: Upload to Amazon KDP
- Log in to KDP dashboard
- Upload EPUB file as eBook
- Keep PDF version for paperback uploads
- Ensure metadata, title, and cover are correct
Tip: Many authors provide both EPUB (digital) and PDF (print) versions to cover all reader needs.
Conclusion
EPUB vs PDF boils down to your reading experience and publishing goals:
- EPUB: Best for Kindle reading, reflowable text, and digital distribution
- PDF: Best for print or fixed-layout documents
By converting PDFs to EPUB and previewing with tools like EPUB Viewer, you ensure a professional eBook experience for your readers.
About the Author
The CreatorFormat Team has extensive experience helping authors choose the right ebook formats and convert between EPUB, PDF, and Kindle formats. We specialize in Amazon KDP publishing and ebook optimization for all major platforms.
Related Guides
- PDF to EPUB Converter → Convert your files
- EPUB Viewer → Preview your eBooks instantly
- How to Convert PDF to EPUB Format
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