Formatting a 64GB USB drive to FAT32 on Windows is easy, all you have to do is follow the step-by-step instructions below.
In case Windows is unable to perform the formatting due to some reasons, we’ll also share a few free third-party formatting tools.
Read on to learn more!
Contents
What is FAT32 and Why Use It for USB Drive?
Technically, FAT refers to File Allocation Table and 32 refers to the number of bits this filing system uses. Simply put, it is a filing system that helps in organizing files stored on a disk drive.
Why would you want to use FAT32 instead of other file systems?
Simple, because it is the only format that can be read by both Windows, Linux, and Mac. This guarantees you a working USB, no matter what computer you decide to plug it into.
Now, let’s dive into how to format a 64GB USB drive to FAT32 on Windows.
How to Format 64GB USB Drive to FAT32
Unfortunately, because the built-in Windows format tool does not give us the option to format files larger than 32GB to FAT32, this process is not simply one click away.
The get-around method is by using either Windows PowerShell or a third-party tool (arguably, the faster and pain-free method).
To format by using PowerShell, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Search PowerShell in your desktop search bar. Click Run as Administrator
Step 2: Type format /FS:FAT32 D: (replacing D: with the drive letter you want to format), and then hit Enter.
For a more straightforward process, you could use a third-party formatting tool. Generally, there are a few steps to follow:
- Install & download the tool
- Launch program
- Select the file you want to format
- Select FAT32 as the file system & select the cluster size
- Wait for the tool to work its magic
Some Free FAT32 Format Programs
As mentioned above, we recommend using a free third-party tool to format a USB to FAT32 on Windows when you’re dealing with a 64GB USB. This is very straightforward and the whole process can be completed in just a few minutes.
Here are a few of the best free FAT32 format tools you can use.
This software is limited to formatting only to FAT32. If you plan to get this tool for formatting different types of file systems, then don’t use it.
2. Rufus
Although this formatting tool doesn’t offer a lot of features, it delivers. Some of the features include but are not limited to, changing the filing system, changing the name, creating bootable flash drives from ISO files, fixing defective sectors tool, etc.
3. IM-Magic Partition Resizer Free
This is another tool that only allows reformatting your USB drive to NFTS and FAT32. However, it allows you to change, delete, create, and format partitions really easily.
EaseUS Partition Master is useful for a range of disk formatting purposes. And it’s relatively easy to use with clean UI/UX.
FAT32 vs NTFS vs exFAT: Which is Best for a 64GB USB?
exFAT: It is compatible with all versions of Windows, and macOS. It doesn’t have any file size or partition size limit, making it a favorable format with flash drives.
NFTS: It is compatible with all versions of Windows. However, it’s not compatible with Linux and it is read-only with macOS and some Linux versions. It doesn’t have any size limitations, provides encryption, and supports file permissions.
FAT32: It is one of the oldest filing systems and because of that, is supported by all OS. It’s easy to use and doesn’t need special software for macOS. However, it does come with limitations. The maximum file size is 4GB and the maximum partition size is 8TB.
In conclusion, FAT32 will be the best option for a removable storage device. So, when it comes to your 64GB drive, if you plan to use it with different devices, it’s best to format it with FAT32.
Either way, we hope this article has helped you format your 64GB USB to FAT32. If you’re having any trouble in the process, feel free to leave a comment below.
