How to Use Send to Kindle: A Simple Tutorial

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How to Use Send to Kindle: A Simple Tutorial

Kindle devices are fantastic for reading, but sometimes you want to read documents, articles, or web pages that aren’t available in the Kindle Store. That’s where “Send to Kindle” comes in. This feature allows you to wirelessly transfer various file types directly to your Kindle device or app, creating a seamless reading experience. This tutorial will walk you through the different methods and provide a comprehensive guide to using Send to Kindle.

What File Types Can You Send?

Kindle supports a wide range of file formats, including:

  • Microsoft Word (.DOC, .DOCX): These are generally converted to Kindle format automatically.
  • HTML (.HTML, .HTM): Web pages can be sent for offline reading.
  • RTF (.RTF): Rich Text Format documents.
  • JPEG (.JPEG, .JPG): Images can be sent, but they’re displayed as documents, not in a photo gallery.
  • GIF (.GIF): Similar to JPEGs.
  • PNG (.PNG): Similar to JPEGs.
  • BMP (.BMP): Similar to JPEGs.
  • PDF (.PDF): You can send PDFs, and choose whether to convert them to Kindle format or keep them in their original layout.
  • TXT (.TXT): Plain text files.
  • MOBI (.MOBI) – non-DRM protected only.
  • EPUB (.EPUB) – Amazon will convert this to a Kindle-friendly format.

Important Note about File Size: The maximum file size you can send via email is typically 50MB. For larger files, consider using the Send to Kindle app or the browser extension.

Method 1: Send to Kindle via Email

This is perhaps the most common and versatile method.

  1. Find Your Kindle Email Address:

    • Go to the Amazon website and sign in to your account.
    • Navigate to “Manage Your Content and Devices” (usually found under “Account & Lists” or by searching).
    • Click on the “Devices” tab.
    • Select your Kindle device or app from the list.
    • You’ll find your unique “Send-to-Kindle E-Mail Address” listed (e.g., [email protected]). Make a note of this address.

  2. Approve Your Sending Email Address (One-Time Setup):

    • Still in “Manage Your Content and Devices,” click on the “Preferences” tab.
    • Scroll down to “Personal Document Settings.”
    • Under “Approved Personal Document E-mail List,” click “Add a new approved e-mail address.”
    • Enter the email address you’ll be using to send documents (e.g., your Gmail, Outlook, etc.).
    • Click “Add Address.” This prevents spam from reaching your Kindle.

  3. Send Your Document:

    • Open your email client (Gmail, Outlook, etc.).
    • Create a new email.
    • In the “To” field, enter your Kindle email address (the one you noted in step 1).
    • Attach the document you want to send.
    • Optional: Subject Line Conversion:
      • If you want to convert a PDF to Kindle format (which is generally better for reflowing text), type “Convert” in the subject line. Leaving the subject blank will send the PDF in its original layout.
      • For all other supported file types, the subject line is ignored; they are automatically converted.
    • Send the email.

  4. Sync Your Kindle:

    • Your document should appear on your Kindle device or in your Kindle app library within a few minutes. Make sure your Kindle is connected to Wi-Fi.
    • You can manually sync your Kindle by going to the settings and selecting “Sync.”

Method 2: Send to Kindle Desktop App (Windows & macOS)

Amazon provides dedicated apps for Windows and macOS that simplify the sending process.

  1. Download and Install:

    • Go to the Amazon website and search for “Send to Kindle app.”
    • Download the app for your operating system (Windows or macOS).
    • Install the app following the on-screen instructions.

  2. Sign In:

    • Open the Send to Kindle app.
    • Sign in with your Amazon account credentials.

  3. Send Documents:

    • There are several ways to send documents using the app:
      • Drag and Drop: Drag the file(s) directly onto the Send to Kindle app window.
      • Right-Click (Windows): Right-click on a supported file in File Explorer and select “Send to Kindle.”
      • Print to Kindle (Windows): In many applications, you can “Print” to Kindle. Select “Send to Kindle” as your printer.
      • Open With (MacOS): Right-click on a supported file in Finder, choose “Open With,” and then select “Send to Kindle.”

  4. Choose Destination and Options:

    • The app will display a window where you can:
      • Select which Kindle device or app to send the document to.
      • Edit the title and author of the document.
      • Choose whether to convert PDFs to Kindle format (recommended for better readability).
      • Add to your Kindle Library, or an archive.

  5. Send: Click the “Send” button. The document will be uploaded and sent to your Kindle.

Method 3: Send to Kindle Browser Extension (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)

This method is perfect for sending web articles directly to your Kindle.

  1. Install the Extension:

    • Go to your browser’s extension store (Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, etc.).
    • Search for “Send to Kindle” (make sure it’s the official Amazon extension).
    • Install the extension.

  2. Sign In:

    • Click on the Send to Kindle extension icon (usually in your browser’s toolbar).
    • Sign in with your Amazon account.

  3. Send Web Pages:

    • While browsing a web page you want to read on your Kindle, click the Send to Kindle extension icon.
    • The extension will process the page, removing ads and formatting it for Kindle.
    • You’ll have options to:
      • Choose which Kindle device or app to send to.
      • Edit the title and author.
      • Preview the Kindle version.

  4. Send: Click the “Send” button.

Troubleshooting:

  • Document Not Appearing:
    • Check your Wi-Fi connection on your Kindle.
    • Manually sync your Kindle.
    • Verify your Kindle email address and approved sending email address.
    • Check the file size (it should be under 50MB for email).
    • Ensure the file format is supported.
    • Check your “Manage Your Content and Devices” page on Amazon to see if the document is listed there (it may be stuck in processing).
    • If sending an EPUB via email, make sure the file is not DRM protected.
  • Conversion Issues (PDFs):
    • If the “Convert” option doesn’t work well for a particular PDF (complex layouts, tables, etc.), try sending it without conversion.
    • Consider using a dedicated PDF to Kindle converter online before sending.

Key Takeaways:

  • Send to Kindle is a versatile feature for reading various documents on your Kindle.
  • Email is the most common method, but the desktop app and browser extension offer convenient alternatives.
  • Always check your Kindle email address and approved sending email addresses.
  • Use the “Convert” subject line for optimal PDF readability.
  • Troubleshoot by checking your connection, file size, and format.

By following these steps, you can easily send documents, articles, and web pages to your Kindle and enjoy them anytime, anywhere. Happy reading!

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