How to convert PDFs for Kindle Paperwhite?

Quick tutorial on how to convert any ebook format to your Kindle using the free software Calibre

Why do we need to convert files?

If you try to import PDFs directly into your Kindle, you will see that the text does not adapt to your format. Kindle reads the PDF as an image and it makes it very difficult to read on this device.

Important: If the PDF you are using is a “Paper scan” and has no textual information the process described here will not work.

Install Calibre

Calibre is an open source software available for Windows and Mac OS: https://calibre-ebook.com/

When you open the program for the first time it will ask you which is your preferred device. If you select Kindle the output format will be MOBI.

Import your books into Calibre

You can drag and drop multiple books into Calibre to convert them at once.

Once you have them in the list you can use the button “Convert books” on the top bar to convert all files at once.

By default the Output folder in the Mac OS is called “Calibre Library” which is stored in your Profile library. Look inside the folders for the MOBI files.

Copy MOBI books into your Kindle

Now connect your Kindle into your Computer with a USB cable. It will be loaded as an external drive. Find the folder “documents” and past the MOBI files you want to import.

Now you can eject or unmount the Drive (Kindle) and you will find the new books in the Library of your Kindle.