ExFAT vs. FAT32: Deciding Between the Two

Humans rely heavily on computers and, as technology advances, continue to do so. All computers use file systems to structure and store data for easy use. File systems use file names to create an index, which helps expedite file retrieval by attaching information to files, such as filenames and permissions. Each type of operating system uses its file system with its indexing method.

Two popular file systems are exFAT and FAT32. Learn about each method, the differences between the two file systems, and when to use each one to support efficient and effective data management. 

What is a file system?

A file system is a hierarchical structure that allows operating systems to name, store, and retrieve files efficiently. To help you understand file systems better, imagine standing in an old-school office with individuals relying on paper documentation. As you look around, you see that the office has no file folders or file cabinets—and all you see is piles of paper. How do you find the document you want without any system in place?

Finding the file you want on a computer without a file storage system would prove just as challenging. A file system applies logic to data storage. Files are organized following a hierarchical structure to give your computer a path to access your data again in the future.

Standardizing the storage offers greater speed and security when accessing and storing information. If you returned to that old school office after they installed file cabinets and alphabetized their records, you’d have an easier time locating that needed documentation.

Read more: What Does a Data Management Specialist Do?

File storage use cases

File storage provides organizations with a centralized, protected way to store, access, share, and secure their data. The right file system can suit your data needs in several ways, including the following:

• Storing and sharing files with team members

• Centralizing file storage for on-site, off-site, or cloud-based collaboration

• Archiving your data

• Backing up your data

How FAT file storage works

File allocation table (FAT) file storage manages your files, directories, and free space using directory entries. FAT stores data in clusters, dividing your drive into partitions (e.g., C drive or D drive). The directory entries capture file metadata. The FAT tracks data allocation and enables efficient retrieval of the data. Even if it separates your data across clusters, FAT can return large volumes of data in order.

It helps to examine each individually to understand exFAT versus FAT32. As exFAT preceded FAT32, the latter is a good place to start. 

What is FAT32?

FAT32 is the file system on many flash drives and secure digital (SD) cards. Its simple organizational structure makes it widely compatible and effective for general-purpose use. However, its structure means it can’t support file sizes of more than 4 GB. Instead, FAT32 systems split up larger data (e.g., your video gets saved in several files). FAT32 works across Windows, MacOS, and popular Linux distros. 

What is exFAT?

An extended file allocation table (exFAT) file system is a more extensible version of FAT32. This lightweight file system is used on PCs and some Macs. Released by Microsoft in 2006 to replace FAT32, exFAT offers fast read/write capabilities for external storage drives. While it lacks the compatibility of FAT32, exFAT offers greater storage volume capabilities. 

Differences between exFAT and FAT32

Both exFAT and FAT32 are common for external media and removable flash drives. If you’re seeking file compression, security, and permission features for an internal drive, you’ll turn instead to a different system (e.g., NTFS). When selecting between exFAT and FAT 32, it can help to consider the difference captured in the following chart.

Comparison chart for exFAT vs. FAT32

Pros and cons of exFAT and FAT32

Each file system has its pros and cons. In this section, consider the advantages and limitations of exFAT and FAT32 so you can choose the right system.

Next steps with exFAT and FAT32

In short, exFAT is designed to be a similarly lightweight file system to FAT32 but offers more capabilities, such as increased storage space and optimization for removable media. However, exFAT is less compatible than FAT32 with older devices. You can learn more about all the main types of file systems in the Computer Forensics Specialization from Infosec on Coursera. This intermediate-level course covers how each system works and how to delete and recover files in these systems. Devoting 10 hours each week to your studies, you can typically complete the course in one month.

If you want more extensive training, consider learning about file systems as part of Google’s . In the Operating Systems and You: Becoming a Power User course, you’ll learn how to navigate Windows and Linux file systems and configure disk partitions. Finish this six-module, beginner-level course with a better understanding of how the system processes work and how to manage them so that you can troubleshoot common issues in an IT support specialist role.