How to format a USB drive as FAT32 on Windows 11

Formatting a USB drive as FAT32 on Windows 11 is still useful in many situations. This file system is widely supported and works well with devices like BIOS update tools, printers, cameras, and older hardware. While Windows mainly uses NTFS and exFAT today, FAT32 remains important for compatibility.

Windows 11 allows you to format USB drives as FAT32 using built-in tools. However, some options depend on the size of the drive and the method you choose. This guide explains the most reliable ways to format a USB drive as FAT32 on Windows 11.

Before you begin, make sure to back up your files. Formatting will erase all data on the USB drive.

What Is FAT32 and When Should You Use It

FAT32 is an older file system that focuses on simplicity and compatibility. It works across many operating systems and devices, which is why it is often required for removable storage.

You may need FAT32 when:

• Updating motherboard firmware using a USB drive
• Printing files directly from a USB drive
• Using USB drives with cameras, TVs, or game consoles
• Sharing files between different operating systems
• FAT32 Key Limits and Features
• Feature FAT32
• Maximum file size 4 GB
• Typical Windows format limit 32 GB
• Compatibility Very high
• Best use USB drives and SD cards

Format a USB Drive as FAT32 Using File Explorer

This is the easiest method and works best for USB drives that are 32GB or smaller.

Steps

• Connect the USB drive to your computer.
• Open File Explorer.
• Click This PC from the left pane.
• Right-click the USB drive and choose Format.
• Select FAT32 from the File system list.
• Keep the default allocation unit size.
• Enter a name for the drive if needed.
• Check Quick Format.
• Click Start, then confirm.
• After the process finishes, the USB drive will be formatted as FAT32.

Format a USB Drive as FAT32 Using Settings

Windows 11 also lets you format drives from the Settings app.

Steps

• Open Settings.
• Click System.
• Select Storage.
• Click Advanced storage settings.
• Choose Disks & volumes.
• Select the USB drive volume.
• Click Properties, then Format.
• Choose FAT32 as the file system.
• Enable Quick format.
• Click Format.

Format a USB Drive as FAT32 Using Command Prompt

Command Prompt gives you more control and works even when File Explorer does not show FAT32.

Steps

• Open Start.
• Search for Command Prompt.
• Right-click it and choose Run as administrator.
• Type the command below and press Enter:
• format /q /fs:fat32 D: /v:USB

Replace D: with your USB drive letter and USB with the label you want.

If the drive is larger than 32GB, this command will fail with a size error.

Format a USB Drive as FAT32 Using PowerShell

PowerShell offers another command-based option.

Steps

• Open PowerShell as administrator.
• Run the following command:
• Format-Volume -DriveLetter D -FileSystem FAT32 -NewFileSystemLabel USB
• Change D to the correct drive letter and adjust the label as needed.
• This performs a quick format by default.

Why FAT32 May Not Appear as an Option

If you do not see FAT32, it is usually due to one of these reasons:

• The USB drive is larger than 32GB
• The drive has no partition
• Windows limits FAT32 formatting in graphical tools
• What You Can Do
• Use Command Prompt or PowerShell
• Create a smaller partition first
• Use third-party formatting tools if required

FAT32 vs exFAT

If FAT32 is not required by your device, exFAT may be a better option.

• Feature FAT32 exFAT
• Max file size 4 GB Very large
• Compatibility Very high High
• Best for Older devices Large USB drives
• Important Tips Before Formatting
• Double-check the drive letter
• Back up important files
• Do not format internal system drives
• Use FAT32 only when required

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I format a USB drive larger than 32GB as FAT32 on Windows 11?

Windows built-in tools usually do not allow this. You may need third-party software.

Will formatting delete my files?

Yes. Formatting removes all data from the USB drive.

Is FAT32 still useful today?

Yes. Many devices still require it for compatibility.

Should I use FAT32 for internal drives?

No. FAT32 is best for removable storage, not internal drives.

Formatting a USB drive as FAT32 on Windows 11 is a straightforward process when you use the right method. File Explorer and Settings work well for smaller drives, while Command Prompt and PowerShell offer more control when needed. FAT32 remains a practical choice for devices that depend on wide compatibility, even with its limitations. Before formatting, always confirm the drive size and back up your data to avoid losing important files.