Electronic Publication (epub)
Wikipedia
The most widely supported open ebook format. EPUB is designed for reflowable content and is the standard format for most e-readers except Kindle.
MIME Type:
Advantages:
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Open standard format
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Widely supported by most e-readers
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Reflowable text adapts to screen size
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Supports rich media and interactivity
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DRM optional
Disadvantages:
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Not supported by Kindle without conversion
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Complex formatting may be lost
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Limited fixed-layout support
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Inconsistent rendering across devices
Mobipocket (mobi)
Wikipedia
A legacy format used by early Kindle devices. While being replaced by AZW3, it remains important for older e-readers.
MIME Type:
Advantages:
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Compatible with all Kindle devices
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Small file size
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Good for simple texts
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Widely supported format
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Works well with older devices
Disadvantages:
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Limited formatting options
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No support for modern features
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Being phased out by newer formats
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Poor image handling
Kindle Format 8 (azw3)
Wikipedia
Amazon's enhanced ebook format for Kindle devices. Supports advanced formatting and features while maintaining good compatibility.
MIME Type:
Advantages:
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Enhanced formatting support
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Better image handling than MOBI
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Supports complex layouts
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Official Kindle format
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Good typography options
Disadvantages:
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Kindle-exclusive format
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Not supported by other e-readers
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Proprietary format
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DRM restrictions
Portable Document Format (pdf)
Wikipedia
While not primarily an ebook format, PDF is commonly used for digital books, especially those with fixed layouts like textbooks and magazines.
MIME Type:
Advantages:
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Preserves exact layout
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Universal compatibility
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Good for graphics-heavy books
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Print-ready format
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Supports interactive elements
Disadvantages:
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No reflowable text
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Poor reading experience on small screens
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Large file sizes
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Not optimized for e-readers
FictionBook (fb2)
Wikipedia
An XML-based format popular in Russia. Focuses on storing books in a well-structured way with rich metadata.
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Advantages:
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Well-structured XML format
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Rich metadata support
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Good for fiction books
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Easy to convert
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Lightweight format
Disadvantages:
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Limited worldwide adoption
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Few dedicated readers
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Basic formatting only
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Limited support outside CIS countries
Microsoft Reader (lit)
Wikipedia
A discontinued Microsoft format that was used for early ebooks. While no longer active, many legacy books still exist in this format.
MIME Type:
Advantages:
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Good typography features
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Compact file size
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Built-in bookmarking
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Good for archival purposes
Disadvantages:
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Discontinued format
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No modern reader support
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Limited conversion options
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No new content being created