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DashiellCove's avatar
DashiellCove
Iron Contributor
Jul 04, 2025

Can't Format SD Card to FAT32 on Windows 11

It is a new 128GB SanDisk Extreme Pro SD card. When I try to format it using File Explorer or Disk Management, FAT32 isn't even an option. Only exFAT or NTFS show up.  I tried a few different method...
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MercerLane's avatar
MercerLane
Iron Contributor
Jul 04, 2025

FAT32 is a popular choice for SD card and I prefer it over exFAT as FAT32 remains a widely used file system for SD cards because of its broad compatibility across many devices and operating systems.

1. Excellent Device Support

FAT32 works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, cameras, game consoles, smart TVs, and more. Many older and embedded devices only recognize FAT32.

2. Fast and Lightweight

It has low overhead, which means better read/write performance on smaller files—ideal for SD cards used in dash cams, MP3 players, or handheld consoles.

3. Lower Risk of Corruption on Removal

Compared to NTFS or exFAT, FAT32 tends to be more tolerant of improper ejects, making it safer for removable storage like SD cards.

If you can't format SD to FAT32 in Windows 11 from file explorer, then try the command tool instead.

How to Format an SD Card to FAT32 in Windows 11

1. Insert your SD card.

2. Open PowerShell as administrator.

3. Run the following:

format /FS:FAT32 X:

Replace X: with your SD card’s drive letter.

⚠️ This method doesn’t work for SD cards over 32GB due to Windows' built-in limit.

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