Importance of the file format in a usb: fat32, exfat, ntfs

Usually when we buy a USB key, it comes in the factory FAT32 format, which does its job but also has its downsides compared to other file formats like exFAT and NTFS.

Differences between file formats on USB

FAT32

FAT32 is a file format that has been with us for many years and is the one used by default in USB keys. One of the big drawbacks of this 'old' file system is the limitations on the size of the files that can be stored on it. In FAT32 it is not possible to copy files that exceed 4GB and it is also a format that offers a slower writing speed than others.

Why is it still used? Because FAT32 is supported by Windows, Mac and Linux computers, so maximum compatibility is ensured.

exFAT

This is a relatively recent file system (debuted in Windows Vista SP1) and Microsoft proprietary looking to replace FAT32. Although it was created by Microsoft, this file system is also compatible with Mac computers.

The advantage of exFAT is that it lacks the FAT32 file size limitations.

This is the most recommended option if we have a USB key or an external hard drive that we want to use in both Windows and Mac without any limitation on file copying or other restrictions.

NTFS

This is the latest file system created by Microsoft and is used on the vast majority of internal hard drives and SSDs.

In addition to not having limitations on file sizes, NTFS supports compression of files and long file names; in addition to the possibility of storing files that can only be accessed from the administrator account, etc.

NTFS is a file system that should be used in case we are only going to use Windows computers.

These are roughly the differences between file system formats and their use on USB drives. I hope this information has been useful to you and see you in the next one.