Wondered what the difference is between eBook formats? Here’s a quick summary, so you can pick the right one for you…
PDF format – best for computers and large tablets
The PDF format is best for reading on a desktop or laptop computer or a larger tablet. It’s a fixed format, so it’s laid out like the paperback book.
Adobe Reader is already installed on most computers or can be freely downloaded, and other PDF viewing/editing software is also available. The table of contents/bookmarks can be shown down the side of the book, and there’s usually search functionality too. You can also highlight and annotate your book.
ePub format – best for tablets/phones/eReaders
The ePub format is ideal for smaller tablets and phones. It has a reflowable format, so it adapts to small screen sizes, and you can enlarge the font size to suit your eyesight.
On the iPad, I’d recommend using the free Books apps (instructions here). For Android, try Play Books (instructions here). ePub format also works on other ePub compatible eReader devices, such as Nook and Kobo.
Kindle format – best for Kindle eReaders
Amazon has now ended support for their old .mobi format. Kindle now accepts the more popular ePub format instead. To install on your Kindle eReader we have instructions here.
