Amazon’s Kindle devices use a special eBook format called AZW. If you have ever downloaded books from the Kindle Store, you’ve likely encountered this format. But what exactly is AZW format, and how does it compare to other eBook formats? Let’s break it down.
What is the AZW Format?
AZW is Amazon’s proprietary eBook format designed for Kindle devices and apps. It was introduced in 2007 when the first Kindle was released. AZW files are based on the MOBI format but include Amazon’s DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection, which restricts how books can be shared or copied.
AZW vs. AZW3: What’s the Difference?
In late 2011, Amazon introduced AZW3, also known as Kindle Format 8 (KF8), as an upgrade to the original AZW. AZW3 supports advanced formatting, including better typography, fonts, and layouts. While older Kindles support AZW, newer Kindles primarily use AZW3 for improved eBook presentation.
AZW Format vs. Other eBook Formats
How does AZW compare to other popular eBook formats? Here’s a breakdown:
- EPUB – The most widely supported eBook format, used by Apple Books, Google Play Books, and Kobo. Amazon now allows EPUB uploads, but they are converted to AZW3.
- MOBI – The predecessor to AZW, formerly used by Kindle, but no longer supported.
- PDF – A universal format that preserves page layouts, but it’s not optimized for eReaders. The PDF contents on Kindle are displayed as the text graphics are laid out exactly resembling the original PDF document.
- TXT & HTML – Basic formats with minimal styling, sometimes used for simple text-based eBooks.
Amazon’s Format Changes
In 2022, Amazon made a significant shift in eBook format support:
- MOBI and AZW files are no longer supported for new uploads via Send to Kindle.
- EPUB files can now be added to a Kindle Library.
- Existing MOBI and AZW files already in a Kindle Library are automatically converted to AZW3 (KF8).
If you have MOBI or AZW eBooks that you want to add to your Kindle:
- Convert them to EPUB first, then upload them via Send to Kindle (Amazon will convert them to AZW3).
- Convert them directly to AZW3 using an eBook converter, and manually transfer them to your Kindle.
Can You Convert Other eBook Formats?
Yes! If you have an eBook not supported by Kindle, you can convert it to a compatible format using an eBook converter, like Online Convert.
For example, you can convert EPUB, PDF, or MOBI files to AZW3 (KF8) or TXT, which Kindle supports. However, remember that DRM-protected books cannot be converted or used outside their intended platform.
How to Easily Transfer AZW3 Files to Kindle?
If you choose to convert your eBooks to AZW3, you can add them to your Kindle manually via:
- USB Transfer: Connect your Kindle to your computer using a USB cable and copy the AZW3 file into the “Documents” folder of your Kindle.
- Calibre: Use the free eBook management tool Calibre to transfer AZW3 files to Kindle via USB. Calibre allows you to organize your eBook library and send eBooks directly to your device!
In Conclusion
AZW format and AZW3 are Kindle’s dedicated eBook formats, designed to provide seamless reading on Amazon devices. While AZW3 is now the standard, Amazon has shifted its format support, allowing EPUB uploads while discontinuing MOBI and AZW for new transfers.
If you have unsupported eBooks, easily convert them to AZW3 online. By understanding these formats and conversion options, ensure the best reading experience on your Kindle!