Converting DRM-Protected Kindle Files to PDF: What You Need to Know

That includes eBooks sold in Amazon’s default eBook format, AZW3. Since these books use DRM technology, you may have trouble using them how you want to—but there are ways of getting around these restrictions.

Whether you want to convert DRM-protected Kindle files into more versatile PDF documents or need an answer to the question “what is DRM?,” you’re in the right place. Read on to learn how you can remove DRM from AZW3 files and convert these eBooks to PDF format

Understanding Amazon’s AZW3 Format

Amazon’s AZW3 format (also known as “Kindle Format 8”) is a proprietary eBook format designed for Amazon Kindle devices like the Kindle Paperwhite. This file type comes with various benefits, including:

• Enhanced formatting. AZW3 supports several advanced formatting options. Because of that, it’s ideal for eBooks with complicated layouts.
• Full Kindle compatibility. This format works with all Kindle devices and apps, giving users a seamless reading experience while using these products.
• Rich media support. AZW3 files support embedded fonts, images, and interactive elements—all of which can enhance book design.

However, this file format isn’t perfect. When you’re using AZW3 eBooks, you’ll have to deal with:

• DRM restrictions. The answer to “do Amazon books have DRM?” is usually “yes.” These restrictions are meant to prevent eBooks from being shared, copied, or modified in unauthorized ways. However, they can also frustrate book lovers who want to read their eBooks across multiple devices or platforms.
• Limited device compatibility. Though AZW3 files work well on Kindle devices, they aren’t always compatible with other eReaders.
• Conversion challenges. Due to the DRM protection on AZW3 eBooks, converting these files to other formats can be difficult.

How to Remove DRM From Kindle Books

Since AZW3 eBooks can be difficult to work with, you may be asking yourself “can you remove DRM from books?” or “how do I convert a DRM protected Kindle to PDF?”. To accomplish these goals, you’ll need Calibre—a popular open-source eBook management tool that lets users organize, convert, and manage their eBook collections.

With assistance from a plugin, Calibre can also give users the power to remove DRM from eBooks and convert their AZW3 files to PDF format. If you’re wondering how to strip DRM from Kindle books, follow these steps:

1. Install Calibre. Download and install Calibre on your computer.
2. Add a DRM removal plugin. Search for the DeDRM_tools plugin for Calibre and complete the installation process. You’ll need this plugin to remove DRM from your eBooks.
3. Find your Kindle’s serial number. Once you have this number, return to Calibre, go to “Preferences”> “Plugins”> “File type,” and double-click “DeDRM.” From there, click “eInk Kindle ebooks,” click the plus sign, and enter your serial number.
4. Import AZW3 files. Next, add your AZW3 files to your Calibre library.
5. Convert files to PDF. Select the eBook(s) you want to convert, choose “Convert books,” and select “PDF” as the output format.
6. Save and transfer your files. Once your files have been converted, save the PDFs to your desired location and transfer them to your Kindle Paperwhite or other device.

How Can Smallpdf Enhance PDF eBooks?

Now that you know how to remove Kindle DRM and convert AZW3 files to PDF, you can take your eBooks to the next level with Smallpdf’s suite of tools. Smallpdf offers a ton of features that can help you optimize your PDF eBooks, such as:

• PDF Converter. Unlike AZW3 files, PDFs are easy to convert to other formats—especially when you use our PDF Converter.
• Compress PDF. Our Compress PDF feature lets you reduce the file size of your PDF eBooks without compromising quality. That makes it easier to share and store these files.
• Split PDF. The Split PDF feature is ideal for readers who want to separate pages from one PDF into a separate eBook.
• Edit PDF. With the Edit PDF tool, you can personalize your reading experience. This tool lets users add highlights, images, and more to their PDF eBooks.

Conclusion

Converting DRM Kindle books to PDF opens up a world of possibilities for eBook enthusiasts. By using Calibre to remove DRM and convert these files to PDF, readers can use their eBooks any way they want to.

If you’re looking to do even more with your PDF eBooks, Smallpdf has the tools you need to make the most of your digital library. Plus, you can access our software online no matter where you are!

Resolving Your Kindle DRM Removal FAQs

What is DRM, and why is it used?

DRM is a term describing the use of technologies to control the use of copyrighted digital content. Publishers, copyright holders, and manufacturers use DRM to protect eBooks from unauthorized copying, sharing, and modification. However, DRM can also limit flexibility and accessibility for legitimate users.

Are Kindle books DRM protected?

Most Kindle eBooks are protected by DRM, but you’ll still want to know how to check for DRM. To do that, find your book’s page on the Amazon store.

There, look for “Simultaneous device usage” under “Product details.” If this usage is listed as “Unlimited,” your book is not protected by DRM.

How do I remove DRM from Kindle?

If you’re unsure how to convert DRM protected files to PDF, start by downloading Calibre. By doing that and following the Kindle DRM removal process explained in this article, you can remove DRM and do more with your eBooks.

Is removing Kindle DRM legal?

DRM restrictions vary from one country to the next. For example, breaking the DRM of copyrighted eBooks is almost always illegal in the US. On the other hand, the UK has exceptions to its copyright/DRM laws for personal use.

Before removing DRM from your Kindle eBooks, check with your local authorities to ensure DRM removal is legal in your country.