EBook Formatting Choices: EPUB vs Mobi

By far, the most popular eBook format out there is the .epub format. That’s because it is used by so many different devices and platforms. One of the most popular devices that uses the .epub format is the Barnes & Nobile Nook Reader. However, there are plenty of other places that you can read this format because it is one of the most widely used out there. Let’s take a look at exactly what is so beneficial about this eBook format and why you should consider making this your primary format when it comes to releasing your book on a wide scale. \

The .Mobi Format

You may have heard of the MOBI format before now. The MOBI format is the most common book format that Amazon books are created in. This format allows your book to be read on Amazon Kindle. However, every stricture book from being read on other websites and electronic readers. Since you can often make more by releasing your book widely instead of just going on Amazon, many experts now recommend that you avoid the Kindle Select program and simply publish a book in his many formats as you can.

Where is the EPUB Format Used?

So, where is the EPUB format used anyway? There are a few places where you will be able to read your EPUB book, and it all starts with the Barnes & Noble Nook device. There are actually lots of other uses for the EPUB format as well. It is basically one of the technical standards when it comes to applications that are able to read e-books. Many are not able to read MOBI files, so reading and EPUB file can be very encouraging. But you have to understand that this is different than Amazon’s own format, the MOBI format, which means that you are going to have to use completely different devices to be able to read your EPUB files on a mobile device, tablet or computer. There are several devices out there that will read EPUB formats and just about any e-reader application you install on your phone or tablet will read this format.

Check out Reedsy’s Epub to Mobi Converter While You’re at it

The bottom line is that while there are a lot of EPUB formats out there, and a lot of different applications that take that format, you are still going to be pretty restricted when it comes to selling your book on Amazon. You want to reach as wide of audience as possible, and publishing your eBook in EPUB format will make all the difference. However, when you publish with this format, you lose some of the additional benefits that Amazon offers when you publish exclusively through them. You can still publish your book on Amazon and again in EPUB format though, so you still have the potential to reach the same audience, you just do not have as many options for promotion on Amazon nor can you be enrolled in Kindle Unlimited, which pays you for each page someone reads when they borrow your book.

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