Every time you format an external hard drive, SSD or flash card, you have to choose between three different file systems: NTFS , exFAT, and FAT32 . In the standard utility built into Windows, there is no explanation about this – perhaps that is why you ended up on this page. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about different file systems and help you make the right choice.
NT File System (NTFS)
NTFS is the most common modern file system for an internal hard drive or solid state drive in a home computer. It got its name from Windows NT, on the basis of which XP and all subsequent operating systems from Microsoft were later developed. With a new installation of Windows, the storage is formatted for NTFS itself.
Note: Mac computers use their own file system, the Apple File System (AFS). However, macOS can read NTFS drives and even play media files from them (movies, music, images), but only read – write something will not work.
Features of NTFS:
- It is distinguished by the absence of restrictions on the size of files or partitions, as well as a number of built-in technologiesthat are not available on FAT32 and exFAT. Among the latest levels of security access for files, change log for quick error correction (Windows restore points work on its basis), backup support, data encryption, and many other things critical for the functioning of the operating system.
- The system partition of the drive must be formatted for NTFS. This also applies to any other partitions or drives that contain or will contain Windows applications.
- Not supported by many multimedia devicessuch as TVs, set-top boxes, players and others. True, Xbox One still supports this file system, as it runs on Windows.
How best to use NTFS:
It turns out that NTFS is best suited for installing the Windows operating system and compatible applications. Multimedia files can also be stored on drives with such a file system, but they can only be viewed on a computer or Xbox One.
File Allocation Table 32 (FAT32)
FAT32 is one of the oldest file systems dating back to the days of Windows 95. However, starting with commercial Windows NT and home Windows XP, it is no longer supported as a system partition on a drive. Today FAT32 is the main file system for flash drives, as well as external HDDs and SSDs, as it is compatible with most devices with a USB input. However, it has many limitations, which are discussed below.
FAT32 features:
- A single file cannot be larger than 4 gigabytes. This is critical for data such as a digital copy of a film or a large archive.
- The partition cannot be larger than 8 terabytes. This is quite a lot, but there are already drives of similar and even larger sizes.
- Not suitable for modern Windows installations. Only the older Windows 95, 98, and ME can be written to a FAT32 drive. Starting with Windows XP and NT, a number of built-in security technologies are required (listed in the previous chapter).
- Compatible with most USB devices. Often TVs, players or set-top boxes do not recognize NTFS flash drives and they have to be reformatted to FAT32 in order to play a movie or music. However, files larger than 4 gigabytes cannot be written to a FAT32 drive.
How best to use FAT32:
It turns out that FAT32 is best for storing various media files that often need to be played on a wide variety of devices other than PCs. True, if drives with such a file system are suitable for storing serials, then many full-length films (especially 4K format) may simply not be recorded due to the limitations of up to 4 gigabytes per file.
Therefore, the last of the file systems considered in this article, which is discussed below, may be a good solution.
Extended File Allocation Table (exFAT)
The exFAT file system appeared in 2006 and was positioned as a replacement for the old lady FAT32, free of drawbacks, such as restrictions on the size of an individual file. True, it has not yet been completely displaced – all new flash drives from the factory are still formatted for FAT32, although exFAT was originally developed for external drives.
ExFAT features:
- There is no limit on the size of files or sections. Just like NTFS.
- There are no built-in security technologieslike those found in NTFS (see above). Therefore, like FAT32, it is not suitable for installing an operating system or running Windows applications.
- Fully compatible with macOS. Apple computers can both read and write information to exFAT media.
- Most modern multimedia devices support exFAT. For example, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and many TVs. But many older devices over 10 years old can only work with FAT32.
How best to use exFAT
It turns out that exFAT is best suited when you need to record large files, while maintaining compatibility with most devices. But remember that many older TVs, set-top boxes or players may not support exFAT. For example, the PlayStation 3 does not know how to work with this file system, but the PS4 can.
In conclusion, let’s say that NTFS is ideal for internal (especially system) drives or partitions. And for external ones it is better to use exFAT. True, sometimes for old devices you will have to reformat the USB flash drive to the classic FAT32.
