Is Kindle Unlimited worth it? The full guide
Millions of titles to borrow, on any device. We cover the trial, what’s included, how it works and who should skip it.
New members only. Renews at the regular price unless you cancel before the trial ends.
At a glance
The key facts
How it works
From sign-up to first page in four steps
Start your free trial
Sign in with your Amazon account and join. New members can try it free before the regular price begins.
Browse the catalogue
Look for titles marked Kindle Unlimited. Filter by genre, rating or format to find your next read.
Borrow and read
Tap to borrow, then read on a Kindle, or in the free Kindle app on your phone, tablet or computer.
Keep or cancel
Do nothing and the membership continues. Cancel before the trial ends and you are not charged.
What’s included
Everything in your membership
Choose a category. Catalogue size and titles change over time, so confirm current details on Amazon.
Huge ebook library
Fiction, non-fiction, romance, thrillers, self-help and more across every major genre.
Magazines
A selection of popular magazines available to read alongside your books.
Indie favourites
A strong range of self-published and independent authors you won’t find everywhere.
Audiobook narration
Many titles include professional narration you can listen to on the go.
Switch formats
Move between reading and listening and keep your place where supported.
Hands-free reading
Turn commutes and chores into reading time.
Free Kindle app
Read on iOS, Android, tablets and computers with no Kindle device needed.
Kindle e-readers
Glare-free screens and long battery life make a Kindle ideal for heavy readers.
Synced library
Your place, notes and highlights sync across your devices.
Is it for you?
Quick reading check
Slide to how many books you read in a typical month.
Compare
Kindle Unlimited vs buying books
| Feature | Kindle Unlimited | Buying |
|---|---|---|
| Read many titles for one membership | ✓ | ✕ |
| Keep books after cancelling | ✕ | ✓ |
| Every bestseller available | Some | ✓ |
| Great for binge readers | ✓ | Costly |
| Try before you commit | Free trial | Samples |
Our verdict
The good and the not-so-good
What we like
- Free trial lets you test it risk-free
- Huge range of genres and indie authors
- Works on phones, tablets and Kindles
- No due dates, cancel any time
What to watch
- Auto-renews, so set a reminder before the trial ends
- Titles are borrowed, not owned
- Many bestsellers are not included
- Less value if you read only a little
Best for
Binge readers, genre fans, commuters and anyone who loves trying new authors.
Maybe skip if
You read a book or two a year, only want the latest bestsellers, or prefer to own your books.
FAQ
Questions people ask
Is the Kindle Unlimited free trial really free?
New members can often try it free for a trial period. If you do not cancel before it ends, the membership renews at its regular price. Cancel in time and you are not charged.
Do I need a Kindle device?
No. You can read with the free Kindle app on phones, tablets and computers, or on a Kindle e-reader.
Do I keep the books if I cancel?
No. Kindle Unlimited titles are borrowed and leave your device when you return them or your membership ends. Books you buy separately stay yours.
Are all Kindle books included?
No. Only titles marked Kindle Unlimited are included, and many bestsellers are not. Browse the catalogue before you commit.
Can I cancel any time?
Yes. Cancel from your Amazon account settings. Check the current terms on Amazon for how your final period is handled.
Ready to find your next favourite book?
Start the free trial and decide for yourself. Cancel before it ends and you pay nothing.
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