How to Add a Cover Image to Your EPUB
A good cover image is the first thing readers see in their ebook library. Here's how to add or replace the cover in any EPUB file.
Add a Cover Online (Fastest)
- Open the EPUB Metadata Editor
- Upload your EPUB — the current metadata loads automatically
- Under Cover Image, click to select a JPG or PNG file (up to 5MB)
- Click Save Changes and download your updated EPUB
The tool replaces the existing cover or adds one if none exists. All other content remains untouched.
Cover Image Best Practices
- Resolution: 1600 × 2560 pixels (Amazon's recommended size) or at least 625 × 1000
- Format: JPEG for photos, PNG for illustrations with transparency
- File size: Keep under 2MB for fast loading on e-readers
- Aspect ratio: 1:1.6 (standard book proportions)
Using Calibre
In Calibre, right-click your book → Edit metadata → click the cover image area → Choose file. Save. More steps than Epublys, but useful if you're already managing a library. See our Calibre comparison.
After Adding a Cover
- Validate your EPUB to make sure the cover is properly referenced in the OPF
- Compress the EPUB if the cover image made the file too large
- Send to Kindle — the cover will show on your Kindle home screen
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