How to Download Kindle on PC (Windows 11/10)

If you want to download Kindle on your PC, you usually just need to go to the official website to download it. However, if your PC is on S mode, you might need to use the Cloud Reader instead. This guide will show you everything you need to make both work.

Before you start

• Go to Settings > System > Activation to check your mode. If you see S Mode, then you are on S Mode
• Confirm Windows 10/11 and local admin rights
• Download only from Amazon’s official apps page to avoid outdated or bundled installers
• If you can’t install apps, use Kindle Cloud Reader in your browser

Step 1: Install Kindle for PC

Go to Amazon’s Free Kindle Reading Apps page and click the Download for PC & Mac button to get the installer. Now, go to the Downloads folder, double-click the .exe, accept prompts, and finish setup. Finally, launch Kindle, sign in, and let it sync your library.

If you are on S Mode, it means you can't download apps from outside the Microsoft Store. However, you can go to Settings > System > Activation. Now, click Go to the Store next to S Mode, and select Get to switch out of S Mode (one-way change).

After doing this, you can now try the above steps to install Kindle on your PC

Step 2: Use Kindle Cloud Reader (No Install)

If you can't switch out of S Mode or for some reason can not download apps, open your browser and seach for kindle cloud reader. Select the result from the official website and sign in or create an account if you are a first time user.

Troubleshooting common issues with Kindle on PC

• Microsoft-verified apps or blocked installer: Go to Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings and set Choose where to get apps to Anywhere. Finally, run the installer as administrator.
• Blank library after sign-In: Confirm PC date/time and region, Click Tools > Sync or sign out and back in, and restart the app and router if you use a proxy or VPN
• Network/work PC restrictions: If IT blocks installers, switch to Cloud Reader or simply ask IT to allow required Kindle domains if you need the app
• Installer won’t launch or crashes: Redownload the installer from Amazon, free at least 1–2 GB of disk space, or temporarily pause third-party antivirus during install, then re-enable

Pro Tips to Common Tasks After Install

• Change download location: Open Kindle > Preferences > Content and set a custom folder. This helps when you manage space across drives.
• Manage storage & remove downloads: Right-click a book and choose Remove from Device to reclaim space.
• Update Kindle for PC : Open Help > Check for Updates, or reinstall from Amazon if the updater fails.
• Amazon removed Download & Transfer via USB for many titles. Use Wi-Fi delivery with the app or read in Cloud Reader.

FAQs

Can I use Kindle in S Mode? No. S Mode blocks apps outside the Microsoft Store. Switch out of S Mode or use Cloud Reader.

Can I read offline on PC? Yes, with the desktop app. Download books while online, then read offline.

Where do downloads go? Check Preferences > Content for the current folder. You can change it.

Why don’t my books appear? Sync the app, verify your account, and confirm the correct Amazon region.

Can my family share books? Yes, with Household and Family Library where available.

Conclusion

Choose Kindle for PC for offline reading and full features. Use Cloud Reader when you can’t install apps or need fast access on a locked machine. Start with the path that fits your device, then customize reading settings for comfort.