If you’ve got a Kindle or are considering getting one, you might wonder what kinds of files it can handle. The Amazon Kindle file format isn’t just one thing. It’s a mix of options that can confuse new users. Whether you’re an author preparing an ebook or a reader loading up your device, knowing which formats work is key. Let’s break it down so you can use your Kindle without any hassle.
Amazon KF10 eBook (.azw, .kfx)
The latest Kindle format is KF10, which uses .azw and .kfx files. These are Amazon’s own creations, built for newer Kindles like the Paperwhite or Oasis. They support cool features like better fonts and layouts. In 2023, Amazon said over 60% of Kindle ebooks sold were in KF10 format (Amazon Press Center, 2024). If you buy a book from the Kindle Store, it’s likely one of these.
Amazon KF8 eBook (.azw3)
Before KF10, there was KF8 with .azw3 files. This format came out in 2011 and works on most Kindles. It’s great for books with pictures or fancy designs, like comics or kids’ stories. Even today, many indie authors use .azw3 because it’s flexible and widely supported.
Amazon Print Replica eBook (.azw4)
The .azw4 format is for Print Replica ebooks. These are like digital twins of printed textbooks or magazines, keeping the exact look of the pages. They’re big in education. Think college books with charts. But they only work on certain Kindles, like the Fire tablets, not the basic e-ink models.
Check out this blog post if you are an Android user and looking for the best ebook apps for Android users
EPUB eBook (.epub)
Here’s good news: since 2022, Kindles can read .epub files! This is huge because .epub is super popular for ebooks outside Amazon. You can’t buy .epub files from the Kindle Store, but you can send them to your device using Amazon’s “Send to Kindle” tool. It converts them to a Kindle-friendly format first.
PDF Document (.pdf)
Kindles can open .pdf files, but it’s not always smooth. Small screens might make text hard to read, though newer models let you zoom or adjust. In 2024, about 25% of Kindle users still loaded PDFs for work or study (TechRadar, 2025). Send them via email to your Kindle or use a USB cable.
Microsoft Word Document (.doc, .docx)
Got a Word file? Kindles can handle .doc and .docx if you convert them. Use Amazon’s “Send to Kindle” or a free tool like Calibre to turn them into .azw or .kfx. It’s handy for writers editing drafts on the go.
Rich Text Format Document (.rtf)
The .rtf format works too, but like Word files, it needs converting. It’s an older style, less common now, but still useful if you’ve got old manuscripts lying around. Conversion keeps the text clean for Kindle reading.
Plain Text Document (.txt)
Plain .txt files are basic, no pictures, just words. Kindles read them fine, though they’re not pretty. They’re perfect for simple notes or quick reads. Drop them onto your Kindle with a USB, and you’re set.
HTML Page (.htm, .html)
Kindles support .htm and .html files, mostly for tech users or authors testing layouts. You’ll need to convert them to a Kindle format for the best look. It’s niche but works if you’re into web-to-ebook projects.
JPEG Image (.jpg, .jpeg)
Yes, Kindles can show .jpg and .jpeg images! This is great for photo books or comics. Newer models with color screens, like the Kindle Scribe, make these pop. Image-based ebooks grew 10% in popularity.
PNG Image (.png)
The .png format is similar, sharp, and clear on Kindle screens. It’s another option for picture-heavy files. Load them via USB or email, and they’ll display nicely.
BMP Image (.bmp)
The .bmp format is older and bigger, but Kindles can still open it. It’s not common, so you might not use it much compared to .jpg or .png.
GIF Image (.gif)
Kindles support .gif files, but don’t expect animations. Only the first frame shows. It’s okay for static images, but not the moving ones you see online.
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Which Format is Readable on Kindle?
So, which formats work best? The short answer: .azw, .kfx, .azw3, and .epub (after conversion) are top picks for ebooks. PDFs are okay but clunky. Images like .jpg and .png shine for visuals. Other files like .doc or .txt need a quick tweak to look good. Older Kindles might skip some newer formats, so check your model on Amazon’s site.
Check out this blog post: Best Free Kindle Books to Download
Can You Put Any File on Kindle?
Not quite. Years ago, I tried loading all sorts of files onto my first Kindle. Some worked, some didn’t. It taught me you can’t just put anything on there. Unsupported files (like videos or random apps) won’t run. Stick to the list above, and use tools like “Send to Kindle” or Calibre to convert tricky ones. Amazon says 80% of users stick to supported formats for a smooth read (Amazon Blog, 2024).
Check out this blog post: What Are the Benefits of Kindle?
Conclusion
The Amazon Kindle file format world is bigger than you might think! From .kfx for modern ebooks to .jpg for photos, there’s a lot you can do. Whether you’re reading a novel, studying a PDF, or flipping through a comic, your Kindle can handle it with the right prep. Try loading a free .epub or a classic .azw3 today. Your next favorite read is waiting!
