How to Format SD Card in Windows 10, 8, 7?
Why need to format SD card?
SD cards are a common storage device for mobile devices such as cameras, smartphones, and the Nintendo Switch. There are typically two situations that prompt the need to format an SD card.
● Repair SD card error: If an SD card becomes inaccessible due to a file system error, one possible solution is to format it. This process will erase all data on the card and rebuild its file system, potentially resolving the issue.
● Incompatibility with your device: Some devices are compatible with specific file systems, such as Windows using NTFS and FAT32, while others like PS3 and PS4 only read FAT32. If your device can't read your SD card, you may need to format it to the correct file system.
What file system is best for SD card?
The best file system for your SD card depends on your device, but FAT32 or exFAT are generally compatible with most Android phones, cameras, and game consoles like PlayStation and Xbox. If you're unsure, checking the instruction book can help, or you can consider the features and differences between the two file systems to make an informed decision.
● FAT32: FAT32 is a lightweight file system commonly used on SD and SDHC cards, offering great compatibility. However, its age shows, and it has a significant limitation: it cannot recognize files larger than 4GB, making it outdated for modern needs.
● exFAT: The exFAT file system is an alternative to traditional file systems like FAT32, allowing for the storage of large files (4GB+) on devices. It has no size limit, making it a practical option for storing large files. Many SDXC memory cards also use the exFAT file system.
After understanding the basics of a file system, we can move on to the next topic. To format an SD card in Windows 10, 8, 7, follow these steps: [insert steps here].
How to format SD card to FAT32, exFAT in Windows 10, 8, 7?
✍Note: Before proceeding, it's a good idea to back up any important data on the SD card by cloning it to your PC or another storage device, as formatting will erase all information on the card.
Method 1. Format SD card via DiskPart.exe
Windows provides command-A line utility is available that allows you to format an SD card in Windows, providing an alternative to manual command entry for users who are comfortable with it.
Step 1. Press "Win + R" to open Run dialogue.
Step 2. Type "cmd" to open Command Prompt.
Step 3. Once the Command Prompt is launched, type "diskpart" on the window, and press Enter.
Step 4. When the diskpart.exe is opened, type the following commands:
● list disk
● select disk 1
● list partition
● select partition 1
● format fs=exFAT quick (exFAT can be replaced with FAT32, or other file systems)
Method 2. Easier to format SD card with user-friendly tool
Diskpart.exe is a powerful tool, but its complexity can be a barrier for many users, who often struggle to recall the necessary commands. Furthermore, the tool lacks features like previewing and undoing operations, which can lead to unintended problems if a command is mistyped.
Fortunately, there is a user-Get ready to unleash the full potential of your SD card! With Qiling Disk Master Standard, a user-friendly and powerful formatting tool, you can effortlessly format your SD card to exFAT, FAT32, NTFS, and Ext2, Ext3, Ext4 on a sleek and intuitive interface. Just follow a few simple steps, and you'll be done in no time! Download this tool now and follow our tutorial to discover how easy it is to format your SD card or micro SD card with Qiling Disk Master Standard.
Step 1. Launch Qiling Disk Master, right-click on the SD card partition on the main interface. And choose "Format Partition".
Step 2. Choose the file system you need, like "FAT32", "exFAT".
Step 3. Click "Proceed" on the top of the main interface to commit the change.
Wait for a while, your SD card will be formatted and then plug it into your camera, phone, Nintendo Switch, or other digital devices.
Additional content: Format SD card on camera, GoPro
Formatting an SD card on a digital device, such as a Cannon camera or GoPro, allows you to properly configure the storage device for use. To do this, navigate to the "Menu" option, where you can select the formatting function. This will prepare the SD card for use on your device.
● Format on Cannon camera
Step 1. Turn on your Camera, and press "Menu" button.
Step 2. Go to the "Camera Setting 1" tab.
Step 3. Choose "Format" option.
Step 4. Select "OK" to confirm the operation.
● Format SD card on GoPro
Step 1. Turn on your GoPro, and choose "Menu" on the screen.
Step 2. Choose "Preference".
Step 3. Choose "Reset" on the Preference dialogue.
Step 4. Choose "Format SD card", and choose "Format" when it prompts you to confirm the operation.
Conclusion
Formatting an SD card in Windows 10, 8, 7 can be easily done using the DiskPart tool or Qiling Disk Master. These tools are not only effective for formatting SD cards, but also for formatting other storage devices such as USB drives, hard drives, TF cards, and SSDs.
Qiling Disk Master is a better option for most people, especially those who can't handle command-line interfaces. It offers a user-friendly alternative for tasks such as creating, deleting, and merging partitions, as well as wiping a SD card. Upgrading to the Professional edition unlocks even more advanced features, including changing SD card serial numbers, managing dynamic disks, and performing SSD secure erases.
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