If you are not planning to use external storage to transfer large files or create any executable partitions (such as a Mac startup drive), the FAT32 file system might be an option since this format is supported in all versions of the operating system.ĮxFAT is a newer file system format and has the biggest advantage compared to FAT32: there are no restrictions on file or partition sizes stored. Also, you cannot create a startup drive for Mac computers within storage media that uses the FAT32 file system. For example, the maximum size of supported files is 4GB (you cannot write files larger than 4GB). This particular file system does contain file size restrictions. The FAT32 file system is supported by PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and most cameras. Even the oldest versions of operating systems such as Windows XP SP1 and OS x 10.5 Leopard are compatible. Starting with FAT32, this file system is fully compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac operating systems. Naturally, the question is: which should you choose? To make a choice easier, we describe both file systems and their features below. Which file system to choose - FAT32 or exFAT?Īs mentioned above, both file systems are compatible with Windows or macOS/OS X operating systems. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of read more. You will need to purchase the full version to remove infections and eliminate computer errors. It is recommended to run a free scan with Combo Cleaner - a tool to detect malware and fix computer errors. Video showing How to Format Drive for Mac and Windows Computers?

This article describes the differences between these two file systems and how to format external storage using a Mac computer. Windows and macOS use separate file system formats.įortunately, there is a simple solution: format your external storage with the File Allocation Table (FAT32) or Extended File Allocation Table (exFAT) file system. This is a cross-platform problem that Windows and macOS users often experience. Despite the advantages of using external data storage to transfer content, some users encounter problems caused by the difference between operating systems.Ī common issue users discuss within various technical support forums is that of USB flash drives not working on their computers.

How to Format Internal and/or External Drive to Work Properly on Mac and Windows Computers?Įxternal data storage devices such as USB flash drives, external Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), and Solid State Drives (SSDs) provide one of the easiest ways to transfer files between separate computers without accessing the Internet.

Hardrive format for mac and pc