What are the differences between FAT16, FAT32 and exFAT file systems? | Integral Memory (original) (raw)
The default formatting for cards up to 2GB is FAT16.
In recent years, memory cards have gained more storage capacity; 4GB and above. The file format FAT32 is now commonly used in memory cards between 4GB and 32GB.
If a digital device supports only the FAT16 file system you cannot use a memory card bigger than 2GB (i.e. SDHC/microSDHC or SDXC/microSDXC memory cards).
Integral memory cards of 4GB or more such as those in the CompactFlash i-Pro, UltimaPro and SDHC ranges are only supported by FAT32 devices and must be formatted to FAT32.
It is best practice to format the card in your device before use, CAUTION formatting a card will delete all data, please see your device manual.
| FAT 16 (FAT) | FAT 32 | exFAT (FAT 64) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum file size | 2GB* | 4GB | 2TB (limited by card) |
| SD Card type | SD | SDHC, microSDHC | SDXC, microSDXC |
| PC Compatible OS | Windows 10/11 | Windows 10/11 | Windows 10/11 |
| Notes | Windows OS may require updates, | ||
| Mac Compatible OS | Mac OS 8/9/X | Mac OS 8/9/X | Mac OS X 10.6.5 and above |
*Recommended limit by Microsoft for compatibility but can be up to 4GB