The latest Kindle update disabled the DRM removal. Thinking about getting an old kindle eink device for backing up purposes.As I don't want to pile up e-waste, Which kindle should I buy for drm removing purpose?
Amazon has recently rolled out a new Kindle firmware update — version 5.18.5. Along with it comes a change that ebook enthusiasts won’t be happy about: the new Kindle DRM. Books downloaded to devices running this firmware are now protected by an updated encryption system that currently can’t be cracked.
So, if you’re planning to buy a Kindle mainly for removing DRM and backing up your purchased books, choosing the right device matters a lot. Picking the wrong one could make your DRM-removal efforts impossible.
In this post, we’ll look at which Kindle models are still suitable for DRM removal, which ones you should avoid, and what to do if you already have a newer Kindle.
Part 1: Recommended Kindle Devices for DRM Removal
Older Kindles That Support DRM Removal in AZW3 Format
Some older Kindle models still download ebooks in the AZW3 format, which uses the older and easier-to-remove DRM. These are your best bet if DRM removal is your goal.
Kindles that still work well for DRM removal (AZW3 format):
- Kindle 3rd Gen (Kindle Keyboard)
- Kindle 4th Gen
- Kindle 5th Gen
- Kindle Touch
- Kindle Paperwhite 1 (5th Gen)
Editor’s note:
1. These models are quite old and not ideal for everyday reading, but they’re still effective for DRM removal.
2. Kindle (2nd Gen) International, Kindle DX International, Kindle Keyboard, Kindle (4th Gen), and Kindle (5th Gen) has already lost the access to kindle store.
Kindles That Support DRM Removal in KFX Format
Newer Kindle models download books in Amazon’s KFX format. While this format has stronger DRM, some models still work with current DRM removal tools.
Supported models (as of October 2025):
- Kindle Paperwhite 2 (6th Gen)
- Kindle Paperwhite 3 (7th Gen)
- Kindle Paperwhite 4 (10th Gen)
- Kindle 8th Gen
- Kindle 10th Gen
- Kindle Voyage
- Kindle Oasis (all versions)
Editor’s note:
These models aren’t the newest, but they’re good for reading and still compatible with DRM removal tools right now.
Keep in mind that Amazon can update these models at any time. The Kindle 10th Gen and Kindle Oasis, for example, still receive firmware updates and may get the new DRM in the future.
How to Remove DRM from Kindle E-Ink Devices
If you’re using one of the supported models, here’s how you can remove DRM from your Kindle books.
1. Download the books directly to your Kindle device.
2. Use Epubor Ultimate to remove DRM and convert your books to other formats.
Plugin kindle device to your computer first. Launch Epubor Ultimate, and click "Kindle device" tab to detect your download kindle books. Drag them to the right side for drm removing.
It’s a simple and effective way to back up your Kindle library.
Part 2: Kindles with Tougher Kindle DRM (Not Recommended)
If you happen to have the kindle devices listed below, they may be running firmware 5.18.5 or later come with Amazon’s new hardened DRM. In such case, DRM removal is not possible for these devices.
If they are still not running the Kindle firmware 5.18.5 or later, you still can use the above mentioned method to remove kindle drm on Kindle colorsoft, kindle 11th/12th generation and all line kindle Scribe.
Kindle Models with Harden Kindle DRM:
- Kindle Colorsoft
- Kindle 11th Gen
- Kindle Paperwhite 11th Gen
- Kindle Paperwhite 12th Gen
- Kindle Scribe (all versions)
If your Kindle is already updated, there’s no way to roll back or block updates unless it’s jailbroken — and that’s not an easy process.
Tip: If you already own one of these kindle models and they are running the latest KF 5.18.5, you can still download your Kindle books using Kindle for PC and then remove DRM from there using Epubor Ultimate.
Why Is Amazon Making DRM Tougher?
Amazon’s main goal is to keep readers inside its Kindle ecosystem. It wants you to read Kindle books using a Kindle device or Kindle app, and not on third-party readers or apps that Amazon can’t control.
This might not be a problem if all ebooks were available on multiple platforms — but many titles are exclusive to Amazon. By tightening DRM, Amazon ensures both authors and readers stay loyal to Kindle’s platform.
Final Thoughts
If your main goal is to back up and freely read your Kindle books, it’s wise to avoid the latest Kindle models for now. Older devices might not look as sleek, but they still let you manage your ebooks the way you want.
Sometimes, the best Kindle for you isn’t the newest one — it’s the one that still gives you control over your own library. Why not download Epubor Ultimate for free now to back up your Kindle library?
Disclaimer:
The tool recommended in this post is for personal use only. Distributing the DRM-free files is unequivocally illegal and harms the publishers and authors.
Iris Yan is a passionate member of the Epubor team, dedicated to enhancing your ebook reading experience. She shares insightful tips, tricks, and practical advice to help you get the most out of your digital library. Join her on the journey to reading excellence today!
