U disk format selection guide: Differences and application scenarios of FAT32, NTFS and exFAT

php editor Xiaoxin will analyze the U disk format selection guide for you: the differences and application scenarios of FAT32, NTFS and exFAT. FAT32 is suitable for various operating systems, NTFS supports large file storage and higher security, and exFAT is suitable for large-capacity file transfer and cross-platform use. When choosing a USB flash drive format, you need to make a reasonable choice based on specific needs and usage scenarios to obtain the best results.

Tool materials:

System version: Windows 11 Professional Edition (21H2)

Brand model: Kingston DataTraveler Exodia DTX 32GB

Software version: Windows Explorer (Windows 11 built-in)

1. FAT32 format

FAT32 is one of the most common U disk formats at present, and its advantage is compatibility Very good, almost all operating systems support it. However, the FAT32 format has an obvious disadvantage, that is, the size of a single file cannot exceed 4GB. If you need to store large files, such as high-definition movies or game installation packages, the FAT32 format is not suitable.

FAT32 format U disk is suitable for the following scenarios:

1. Need to share files between different operating systems, such as Windows, Mac and Linux;

2. Storage The files are relatively small, no more than 4GB;

3. The U disk capacity is small, such as less than 32GB.

2. NTFS Format

NTFS is the default file system of Windows operating system. Its biggest advantage is that it supports large file storage and can theoretically store files of 16EB (1EB=1024PB). In addition, NTFS also supports advanced functions such as file encryption and access control, making it more secure. However, the compatibility of NTFS formatted USB flash drives on other operating systems is not as good as FAT32, especially on Mac and Linux systems, and additional software may need to be installed to read and write.

NTFS format U disk is suitable for the following scenarios:

1. Need to store large files, such as high-definition movies, game installation packages, etc.;

2. File security The requirements are high and require encryption or access control;

3. Only use USB flash drives on Windows systems.

3. exFAT format

exFAT is a new file system launched by Microsoft, aiming to replace the FAT32 format. It combines the advantages of FAT32 and NTFS, not only supports large file storage (up to 16EB), but also has good compatibility and can be directly read and written on Windows, Mac and Linux systems. However, since exFAT is a relatively new format, some older devices may not support it.

ExFAT format U disk is suitable for the following scenarios:

1. Large files need to be shared between different operating systems;

2. The U disk has a large capacity, such as 64GB or more;

3. You need to use a USB flash drive on a newer device.

Content extension:

1. How to format a USB flash drive in Windows system?

Formatting a USB flash drive in Windows is very simple. Just right-click the USB flash drive in the explorer, select "Format", and then select the desired file system (FAT32, NTFS or exFAT). Finally click "Start". However, it should be noted that formatting will clear all data in the USB flash drive, so please back up important files in advance.

2. How to read and write NTFS formatted USB flash drive on Mac system?

In Mac systems, NTFS formatted USB drives can only be read by default, but cannot be written to. If you need to write an NTFS formatted USB flash drive in a Mac system, you can use third-party software, such as Paragon NTFS for Mac, Tuxera NTFS for Mac, etc. These software allow Mac systems to natively support reading and writing in NTFS format.

3. How to read and write NTFS formatted U disk in Linux system?

In Linux systems, NTFS-formatted U disks can only be read by default, but cannot be written to. If you need to write an NTFS-formatted USB flash drive in a Linux system, you can install the ntfs-3g software package. ntfs-3g is an open source NTFS file system driver. After installation, you can freely read and write NTFS-formatted U disks in the Linux system.

Summary:

Choosing the appropriate U disk format is very important for our daily use and file transfer. The FAT32 format has the best compatibility, but does not support large files above 4GB; the NTFS format supports large file storage, but is not as compatible as FAT32; the exFAT format has the advantages of both, but may not be supported by some older devices. We should choose the most appropriate U disk format based on actual needs and usage environment. At the same time, you should also pay attention to the support of different operating systems for different formats. If necessary, you can install third-party software to expand functions.

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