FAT32 Formatter for Mac: The Complete Guide

If you've ever attempted to transfer files between the Mac, Windows PC, gaming console or even a smart TV, you've likely hit a major roadblock, compatibility of the file system. Not every device supports the native Apple APFS or HFS+ formats. This is where FAT32 comes to the rescue.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll outline the meaning of FAT32 is, the reasons you'd need it on macOS and how to format the drive to FAT32 using the built-in tools and third-party formatters. If you're preparing for a USB drive, SD card, or external hard drive this guide will take you through all you need to know about.

 

What Is FAT32 and Why It Matters

FAT32 (File Allocation Table 32) is one of the earliest and most widely-supported file systems currently in use. It is recognized by macOS, Windows, Linux and even non-computer devices like gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox), digital cameras, and automobile infotainment systems.

Benefits of FAT32:

  • Cross-platform compatibility: Compatible with almost every modern and old operating system.

  • Ideal for Memory cards and USBs: Ideal for sharing media between devices and computers.

  • Lightweight and speedy Simple and lightweight FAT32 is extremely efficient for medium to small-sized storage devices.

Limitations to Keep in Mind:

  • Limitation on file size The size of each file should not exceed 4 GB.

  • Limit on volume size: macOS can format up 32 GB of space in FAT32 in default (larger drives may require special tools).

  • There are no modern features: No journaling encryption, permissions, and journaling that are present in the latest file systems.

Tips: If you have to store files that are larger than 4GB, but require cross-platform support, you should consider exFAT, which eliminates these limitations while ensuring compatibility.

How to Format a Drive to FAT32 on Mac

There are a variety of options to format your USB drive or external drive stick into FAT32 format on an Mac. Let's take a look at all threefrom the most basic built-in method to the most advanced Terminal commands.

Method 1: Using Disk Utility (Built-In macOS Tool)

Ideal for beginners or casual users of formatting drives with less than 32 GB.

  1. Connect an external USB drive.

  2. Open Disk Utility is available from Applications - Utilities - Disk Utility.

  3. Choose the drive's name (not just the volume) in the sidebar.

  4. Click the erase button.

  5. Under Format, choose "MS-DOS (FAT)" -this is Apple's designation for FAT32.

  6. Under Scheme Under Scheme, select "Master Boot Record (MBR)" to ensure maximum compatibility.

  7. Give the drive an appropriate name (e.g., "SharedUSB").

  8. Wait for the process to be completed.

Once you're done you can safely remove the drive and then use it for the next time on Windows PCs gaming consoles, TVs.

Beware Attention: Beware "MS-DOS (FAT)" label could be misleading If your drive is bigger than 32GB, macOS may not format it correctly to FAT32. In this case, you can use the Terminal or an external formatter.

Method 2: Using Terminal (For Advanced Users)

Ideal for: tech-savvy users or anyone who formats drives larger than 32GB.

If Disk Utility doesn't show FAT32 as an option you can make use of Terminal to make the format happen.

  1. Start Terminal using Applications to Utilities Terminal.

  2. Use the following command to show your disks:

    diskutil list

    Find the drive that you are using externally (e.g., /dev/disk3).

  3. This command can format your drive:

    sudo diskutil eraseDisk FAT32 MYDRIVE MBRFormat /dev/disk3

    Replace:

    • MYDRIVE - your desired drive name

    • "/dev/disk3" is your disk's actual identifyr

  4. Press Enter and then enter your admin password.

  5. The process should take a while to complete and then remove the drive with care.

This command is effective even on drives that are larger than 32 GB, and Disk Utility often refuses to format as FAT32.

Method 3: Using Third-Party FAT32 Formatter Tools

If you'd prefer a graphic interface or are looking for additional options, you could utilize third-party software to format your drives in FAT32 more flexible.

Here are a few of the most well-known alternatives:

  1. DoYourData FAT32 Formatter for Mac

    • Supports drives with more than 32 GB.

    • Provides secure data deletion as well as partition management.

    • A user-friendly GUI that is suitable for users who are not technical.

  2. EaseUS NTFS for Mac / Partition Master

    • It supports both FAT32 and exFAT formatting.

    • Also, it allows the writing of the NTFS drive (which macOS can't do natively).

  3. Paragon Hard Disk Manager for Mac

    • Professional-grade disk management that includes full support for FAT32/exFAT/NTFS.

    • Ideal for heavy users as well as large external HDDs.

Be sure to download these programs on their official sites. Some versions are restricted or paid for.

When You Shouldn't Use FAT32

While FAT32 is excellent for compatibility however, it's not always the most ideal option. It's possible to choose an alternative file system if:

  • You can store massive videos, ISO images, or backups that exceed 4GB each.

  • If you only intend to make use of the drive with Macsin that scenario, APFS or Mac OS Extended (HFS+) is the best choice.

  • You require encryption, Time Machine support, or case sensitivity.

  • It's time to format an SSD or large-capacity external disk (where exFAT and APFS work better).

Best Practices for Formatting Drives on macOS

  • Backup your data prior to formatting. This procedure erases all data.

  • Make sure to exit securely after formatting to avoid corruption.

  • Always make sure to use Master Boot Record (MBR) when you intend connecting the drive to devices that are not Mac.

  • For shared drives between Mac and Windows Choose exFAT for greater performance and less restrictions.

  • Check the drive's format on all devices (e.g. TV console, TV) prior to heavy use.

Summary: The Right FAT32 Formatter for You

Summary: The Right FAT32 Formatter for You
Situation Recommended Method
Small USB stick or SD card (<32 GB) Disk Utility (MS-DOS FAT)
Large drive (>32 GB) Terminal command or DoYourData formatter
Cross-platform media drive FAT32 (MBR scheme)
Files larger than 4 GB Use ExFAT instead of FAT32

Final Thoughts

Formatting drives on Macs Mac isn't necessarily difficult. The built-in Disk Utility works perfectly for the majority of cases however, Commands in Terminal and other third-party FAT32 formatters offer greater flexibility and controlespecially when it comes to large drives or special usage cases.

If you're planning to make an USB stick for your vehicle or you're preparing an SD card for your camera or an external backup drive for your Windows PC, FAT32 remains one of the most reliable and widely compatible files systems available.

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