What format is best for an SD Card: FAT32, exFAT or NTFS?

By formatting an SD card in the device you want to use it with, your camera, phone or tablet will automatically select the best format for its needs. However, if you're attempting to fix an SD card error using a computer first, you may need to choose the format. So which one should you choose? Use the format that the manufacturer of the device recommends. If you can’t find that information, here’s a quick guide to the differences between each format: <ul> <li> FAT32: A wide compatibility with many different devices, but is limited to file sizes under 4 GB </li> <li> exFAT: Compatible with Windows and newer MacOS devices as well as newer PlayStation and XBox devices and also works with larger files </li> <li> NTFS: Ideal for use with newer Windows devices, but is incompatible with Mac </li> </ul>

Why you would format a SD card or microSD card?

Formatting an SD or microSD card clears all its data and fixes problems like file corruption, making it work like new again. It also sets up the card with the right file system, so it works best with the devices you're using it with.

Is there a difference between formatting a SD card vs a microSD card?

Formatting an SD card and a microSD card is pretty much the same; they follow the same steps and use similar file systems. The only real difference is their size, but that doesn't change how you format them.

How to format an SD card or microSD card

Pocket-lint

How to format an SD card or microSD card: 6 different methods

Before you start using that SD card or microSD card, you're going to want to format it. Here's how, six different ways.

SD cards

Key Takeaways

Format an SD card in the device you plan to use it in to ensure best possible compatibility.
Choose the format recommended by the device manufacturer - FAT32, exFAT, or NTFS - based on compatibility and file size requirements.

Key Takeaways

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