What File Formats Does KDP Accept for eBooks?

When publishing an eBook on Amazon through Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), choosing the correct file format is essential. KDP requires your manuscript to be in a digital format that can be easily converted into Kindle-compatible files for various devices. If you use the wrong file type, or if your file isn’t properly formatted, your eBook may display incorrectly or be rejected during the upload process.

This article explains which file formats are accepted by KDP for eBook publishing, which ones are recommended, and how to choose the best format for your specific needs.

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KDP Accepted File Formats for eBooks

Amazon KDP supports several file types for Kindle eBooks. Each comes with its own benefits and limitations. The currently accepted formats for eBooks are:

1. .KPF (Kindle Package Format)

2. .DOC and .DOCX (Microsoft Word)

3. .EPUB (Electronic Publication)

4. .RTF (Rich Text Format)

5. .HTM and .HTML (Web Page formats)

6. .TXT (Plain Text)

Let’s break down each of these formats and when to use them.

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1. KPF (.kpf) – Kindle Create Format

This is the recommended format by Amazon KDP for eBooks.

A .kpf file is created using Kindle Create, Amazon’s official and free book formatting tool. Kindle Create takes your manuscript (in Word or PDF format) and converts it into a professionally styled Kindle eBook file.

Benefits of .kpf:

• Offers better control over chapter headings, page breaks, image placement, and table of contents.

• Produces consistently high-quality results across all Kindle devices and apps.

• Enables features like clickable table of contents, drop caps, and custom styling.

• Built specifically for Kindle and tested for Amazon standards.

If you want to ensure your eBook looks professional and is optimized for Kindle readers, using Kindle Create and uploading a .kpf file is the best approach.

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2. DOC and DOCX (Microsoft Word)

These are the most commonly used file types by self-publishers, especially beginners.

KDP accepts Microsoft Word files directly. Word documents are easy to work with, and you can create and format them using widely available tools such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs (which can export as .docx).

Benefits of .doc/.docx:

• Simple to create and edit.

• Compatible with Kindle Create if you choose to convert it to .kpf.

• Allows for easy formatting of chapters, headings, and basic styling.

• Direct upload supported by KDP.

However, Word files can sometimes introduce formatting issues if you haven’t structured them carefully. Avoid using excessive styling, multiple fonts, or manual spacing, as these can cause unpredictable formatting when KDP converts the file.

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3. EPUB (.epub)

EPUB is one of the most popular eBook file formats and is widely supported across many platforms like Apple Books, Kobo, and Google Play Books. KDP also supports EPUB files, though it converts them to Amazon’s proprietary format upon upload.

Benefits of .epub:

• Ideal for authors who use professional eBook creation tools like Calibre, Vellum, or Scrivener.

• Offers precise formatting and layout control.

• Compatible with multiple eBook platforms, not just Amazon.

One important note: while EPUB is accepted, Amazon may still recommend converting your file through Kindle Create or previewing it in their previewer to ensure compatibility.

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4. RTF (.rtf) – Rich Text Format

KDP supports RTF files, but this is not the best choice for most authors.

Rich Text Format preserves basic formatting (bold, italic, fonts, etc.) but lacks the advanced layout capabilities of Word or EPUB. It’s generally only used by authors working with very basic documents.

RTF is acceptable for simple text-only books with minimal formatting needs, but it is prone to inconsistencies during KDP’s conversion process.

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5. HTM and HTML

You can upload web-based formats (.htm or .html files) created using a text editor or web design software.

HTML files allow precise formatting and are often used by developers or advanced users who want full control over layout and style.

These formats support:

• Custom styling via CSS

• Hyperlinks

• Embedded images

However, unless you are experienced in HTML coding, this format can be difficult to manage and troubleshoot. Mistakes in HTML tags can cause formatting errors in the final eBook.

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6. TXT (.txt) – Plain Text

TXT files are accepted but are the most limited in terms of formatting. They do not support headings, bold, italics, or any kind of advanced styling. This format is best for books that contain only plain, unformatted text—such as raw manuscripts or simple story documents.

Use TXT only if your book has no formatting requirements, no images, and no need for structure. Even then, it is advisable to convert it to a more flexible format before publishing.

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Formats KDP No Longer Accepts

Previously, Amazon KDP accepted MOBI files, which were used for Kindle devices. As of 2021, MOBI is no longer accepted for new eBook uploads. KDP now converts everything into their newer format internally, so there’s no need to create MOBI files.

If you have MOBI files from older eBooks or other platforms, convert them to EPUB or DOCX before uploading to KDP.

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Choosing the Right Format for Your eBook

The format you choose depends on your goals, tools, and level of experience.

If you are a beginner and writing your manuscript in Word, the easiest path is:

• Format your .docx manuscript carefully

• Import it into Kindle Create

• Export a .kpf file

• Upload the .kpf to KDP

If you are an experienced user and already use EPUB creation tools like Vellum, Calibre, or Reedsy, uploading an .epub directly to KDP is fine—as long as you test the file thoroughly with the KDP previewer.

Avoid uploading HTML or TXT files unless you are confident in your technical ability or creating a very basic eBook.

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How to Test Your File Before Publishing

No matter which file format you choose, you must always test your eBook in the Kindle Previewer, which is built into the KDP upload process. This tool lets you simulate how your book will look on:

• Kindle e-ink devices

• Kindle Fire tablets

• Kindle mobile apps

Previewing helps you catch:

• Broken links

• Formatting errors

• Spacing and alignment issues

• Missing table of contents

• Image placement problems

If you find errors, fix them in your original file or in Kindle Create, then re-upload.

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Conclusion

Amazon KDP supports a variety of eBook file formats, but the most recommended and user-friendly option is the .kpf file generated by Kindle Create. If you're not using Kindle Create, .docx and .epub are also widely used and accepted. Regardless of the file format, it’s essential to format your manuscript properly, test it in the Kindle Previewer, and ensure your book delivers a professional reading experience.

Choose the format that aligns with your publishing skills, tools, and goals—but prioritize quality and consistency. Proper formatting not only enhances reader satisfaction but also increases your chances of earning positive reviews and building a strong author reputation.