How to Format a USB Drive on Windows and Mac (Step-by-Step Guide)

If your USB drive shows errors, refuses to open, or needs a fresh start, formatting it fixes most problems instantly. You can also format a USB drive to change its file system for better compatibility with Windows, Mac, TVs, gaming consoles, or large files.

This guide shows you exactly how to format a USB drive on Windows 10, Windows 11, and macOS safely.

When Should You Format a USB Drive?

You should format a USB drive if:

• It shows “USB not recognized”
• It says “You need to format the disk before using it”
• It runs very slow
• You want to remove viruses
• You need to change the file system (NTFS, FAT32, exFAT)
• You want to completely erase everything

Formatting deletes all data permanently. Back up important files before you start.

How to Format a USB Drive on Windows 11 / Windows 10

Step 1: Insert the USB Drive

• Plug the USB drive into your computer.

Step 2: Open File Explorer

• Press Windows + E
• Click This PC

Step 3: Right-Click the USB Drive

• Find your USB under “Devices and Drives.”
• Right-click it and select Format.

Step 4: Choose the Correct File System

Choose based on your use case:

• NTFS – Best for Windows only and large files
• FAT32 – Best for TVs, older devices, and maximum compatibility
• exFAT – Best for Windows + Mac and files larger than 4GB (Recommended)

If you are unsure, choose exFAT.

Step 5: Keep Default Settings

• Allocation Unit Size: Leave default
• Volume Label: Rename if you want
• Quick Format: Keep it checked

Click Start → Click OK

Windows will format the USB within seconds.

How to Format a USB Drive Using Disk Management (If Normal Method Fails)

If File Explorer does not allow formatting, use this method:

Step 1:

• Press Windows + X → Click Disk Management

Step 2:

• Right-click your USB drive.

Step 3:

If needed:

• Click Delete Volume
• Then click New Simple Volume

Step 4:

• Choose file system → Finish

This method fixes corrupted USB drives.

How to Format a USB Drive on Mac

Step 1:

• Insert the USB into your Mac.

Step 2:

• Press Command + Space → Type Disk Utility

Step 3:

• Select your USB from the left panel.

Step 4:

• Click Erase
• Choose format:
  • ExFAT – Best for Windows + Mac
  • MS-DOS (FAT) – FAT32 format
  • APFS – Mac only

Click Erase

Mac will format the USB immediately.

Which USB Format Should You Choose?

Most users should choose exFAT.

FAQs:

How do I format a USB drive on Windows?

Insert the USB drive, open File Explorer, right-click the drive, select Format, choose a file system, and click Start.

How do I format a USB drive on Mac?

Open Disk Utility, select the USB drive, click Erase, choose a format like exFAT, and confirm.

What is the best format when learning how to format a USB drive?

exFAT is the best format if you want compatibility with both Windows and Mac and support for large files.

Does formatting a USB drive delete all data?

Yes, formatting a USB drive permanently removes all files stored on it.

Why can’t I format a USB drive?

You may not format a USB drive if it is write-protected, corrupted, or physically damaged.

How long does it take to format a USB drive?

A quick format usually takes less than one minute, while a full format takes longer depending on size.

Can formatting fix USB errors?

Yes, formatting often fixes file system errors and restores proper functionality.