FAT32 is a versatile file system that has been around for decades. It has largely been replaced by exFAT, which has a larger file and partition capacity, and NTFS—the most widely used and versatile file system for Windows—but it is still used for older devices and for those looking for a simple file format for flash drives.
Fortunately, you can still format flash drives to FAT32 in Windows—either using the built-in tool or third-party tools (which offer more options). Here's how to format a drive to FAT32 in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
What is FAT32?
FAT stands for File Allocation Table, a file system commonly used in USB flash drives. FAT was introduced in 1977 and is compatible with almost all operating systems. This means that Macs, PCs, Linux machines, and even phones can read FAT files.
Due to FAT's near-universal compatibility, it's the ideal format for sharing files between devices. For this reason, most USB drives and SD cards are formatted to FAT32 directly from the manufacturer, where they will work immediately without the need for additional formatting.
FAT32 Limits
Because the FAT32 file system is so old, it has two significant limitations. The first is that the FAT32 file structure cannot be used on drives larger than 16 TB. Admittedly, this isn't a big deal for most people. However, the second drawback of FAT32 can be a bigger headache: FAT32 cannot handle individual files larger than 4 GB.
FAT32 has been replaced by the more modern file system exFAT (extended file allocation). exFAT has a larger file size limit than FAT32. The only downside to exFAT is that it was developed by Microsoft and therefore owns all the patents.
This means that the ability to manipulate the exFAT file structure, such as reading, writing, and repair capabilities, must be licensed. Unfortunately, this means there may be some compatibility issues when using exFAT. This makes working with FAT32 a bit easier, despite the file size limitations.
Format using an integrated tool
Windows 10 and 11 have a useful built-in tool for formatting portable drives. With the drive you want to format inserted into your computer, go to This computer And find the drive under "Hardware and Drives".
Right click flash drive Then click "Preparation".
In the Format window, click the drop-down menu under file system and select FAT32.
You can also change the size of your allocation unit. Generally, you should leave this as the default, but if the drive will only contain larger files like videos and movies, then you can raise this to 64 kb , as this will (some say) make reading files faster. If you're dealing with small files, leave the allocation unit size at the default to conserve space.
You can name the storage unit under "storage unit label" , and also deselect Quick setup If you want Windows to check the drive for errors before formatting.
Finally, tap "Start" To format the drive.
Powershell (Command Line)
Another way to format FAT32 in Windows is: powershell.
Before you begin, connect the storage device you want to format to FAT32 to your computer. When connecting the drive, make a note of its drive letter.
Note: Before proceeding, make sure to back up your data. Formatting will erase all data currently stored on the drive.
To start the Powershell command line, right-click the button. "Start" and select "employment" From the menu. This will open the Run command window. Alternatively, you can press Win + R To start the command box Run. Type powershell Then click OK or press Enter.
Once you open a window Powershell , type the following command, replacing the letter "F" With the drive letter you want to format in FAT32:
format /FS:FAT32F:
Finally, press Enter key. You will see a quick warning that all data on the drive will be erased. Press the key. Y To confirm the format, let your computer do its work, and before you know it, your drive will be formatted to FAT32.
Third-party software
If you're not comfortable with the command line and prefer something with a graphical user interface, you can opt for a third-party program. There are a number of options available, including (but not limited to) those listed below:
1. Mini Aide FAT32 Formatter
Prepare Mini Aide FAT32 Formatter A great and easy solution if you're looking to format a drive to FAT32. The interface is clean and provides you with all the information about your hard drives and partitions. Mini Aide also lets you create a new partition, delete, or rename an existing one. This tool offers all the necessary features but also uses very little RAM.
2. EaseUS Partition Master Free
It can be said that EaseUS Partition Master Free It is one of the most widely used and popular tools for all partition-related solutions. You can extend your hard drive partition, manage disk space, delete and rename a partition, etc. The best part is that unlike other partition managers, it doesn't display ads, even in the free version of the tool. Moreover, you can convert drives and partitions to multiple formats, including FAT32. This tool has a user-friendly interface, and you can interact with existing partitions and drives at the bottom of the user interface.
3.rufus
Rufus It is a very small, lightweight, easy-to-use, and efficient format conversion tool. It is a standalone tool that allows you to convert andCreate a bootable USB drive In multiple formats. Since the app size is just over 1 MB It is fast to boot and allows you to create an ISO file on USB.
Want to keep managing things in Windows? Check out our guide on Reinstall DirectX in Windows And well How to schedule shutdown and startup.
