How to Convert FAT32 to exFAT Without Losing Data | 4 Ways

Many users need to convert FAT32 to exFAT, especially when working with large files or modern devices. This guide explains why you might want to make the switch. You will learn safe, easy ways to convert FAT32 to exFAT without losing data.

exFAT is a modern file system that supports large files (over 4GB) and large partitions. Many users face problems when working with large files on FAT32 USB drives or external disks. FAT32 file system has a 4GB file size limit. It can be an issue when transferring HD videos, system images, or game files.

If you want to format your FAT32 drive to exFAT without data loss, you have come to the right place. This guide shows four ways to convert FAT32 to exFAT without losing data.

Why Do You Convert FAT32 to exFAT?

FAT32 and exFAT are both popular file systems. You may need to convert FAT32 to exFAT for these reasons. FAT32 cannot handle files larger than 4GB. It limits partitions to 32GB when using Windows tools. However, exFAT supports drives up to 128PB. It works perfectly on Windows, macOS, Android, PS5, Xbox, and TVs. exFAT also offers faster read and write speeds. In short, exFAT is the modern choice for large files and cross-device compatibility.

Which file system is more suitable for you? Below is a comparison table of common file systems.

Feature	FAT32	exFAT	NTFS
Typical use	Older USB drives, memory cards	Modern USB drives, SD cards, external storage	Internal hard drives and SSDs for Windows
Max single file size	4 GB	Up to 16 EB	Very large
Max partition size	Up to several TB	Up to about 128 PB	Up to about 256 TB on MBR, much larger on GPT
Compatibility	Windows; read/write on macOS; read/write on Linux with drivers	Windows; read/write on modern macOS; read/write on Linux with drivers	Best on Windows; read-only by default on macOS (write needs extra software); read/write on Linux
Ideal media	Small/older devices, high compatibility	Flash drives and large removable storage	System drives, internal disks, advanced storage
Performance	Good on small volumes, weak for big files	Good for large files on flash storage	Strong, especially with many small files

All-in-one Solution to Convert FAT32 to exFAT Without Losing Data

When converting file systems, data safety should come first. Many Windows tools require formatting, which means you could lose your files during the process. EaseUS Partition Master is the most trusted tool for this job. The latest version of EaseUS Partition Master now fully supports exFAT conversion and management. It converts FAT32 to exFAT in one click and protects your data.

This professional partition manager can convert FAT32 to exFAT directly without formatting. It provides clear instructions, built-in safety checks, and a simple interface. You can also back up or resize partitions, clone drives, and fix disk errors with just a few clicks.

Here is how to convert FAT32 to exFAT without losing data with EaseUS Partition Master.

Step 1. Install and launch EaseUS Partition Master on your computer.

Step 2. In the "Disk Converter" window, select "FAT => exFAT" and click "Next."

Step 3. In the new window, choose a partition you wnat to format to exFAT, click "Convert."

Step 4. Wait when the operation is in process.

Step 5. Click "Done" after the process is completed.

• Convert FAT32 to exFAT without formatting or data loss
• Convert NTFS to exFAT; convert exFAT to NTFS/FAT32
• Resize/move, merge, split, create, delete, format partitions
• Migrate OS to SSD/HDD without reinstalling Windows

Convert FAT32 to exFAT Without Data Loss Manually

If you prefer to handle the process yourself, Windows includes several built-in tools to reformat your drive to exFAT. But before starting, create a backup of your files to prevent data loss.

🏷️Phase 1. Create a Backup of your device

Always back up your files first. You can copy them manually to another drive or use a tool like EaseUS Partition Master for a faster, full backup. Once your data is secure, move on to conversion.

🏷️Phase 2. Convert FAT32 to exFAT

Now that your data is safe, it's time to convert your FAT32 drive to exFAT. Windows offers three built-in options - File Explorer, Disk Management, and DiskPart.

Way 1. Convert FAT32 to exFAT via File Explorer

In File Explorer, you can quickly convert FAT32 to exFAT. This is the fastest method. But it removes all data unless you've backed it up in advance. Here is how to convert FAT32 to exFAT.

Step 1. Open File Explorer and right-click your drive. Then, select Format.

Step 2. Choose exFAT for the File System.

Step 3. Click Start.

Way 2. Convert FAT32 to exFAT using Disk Management

Disk Management gives more control over volume sizes and drive labels. You can also use Disk Management to convert FAT32 to exFAT. This method requires formatting. How to do:

Step 1. Press Win + X and open Disk Management.

Step 2. Right-click your FAT32 partition, and then select Format.

Step 3. Choose exFAT as the file system, and click OK.

Way 3. Convert FAT32 to exFAT in DiskPart

DiskPart is powerful and direct but should be used with care. A single mistaken command can delete data permanently.

Step 1. Type "cmd" in the Windows search bar, then right-click Command Prompt. Select Run as administrator.

Step 2. Input the following commands:

• diskpart
• list disk
• select disk X (replace X with your disk number)
• list volume
• select volume Y (replace Y with your volume number)
• format fs=exfat quick
• exit

Conclusion

FAT32 is reliable but outdated for today's storage needs. Converting to exFAT allows you to store larger files, improve performance, and keep compatibility across operating systems. This guide offers four ways to convert FAT32 to exFAT without losing data. To ensure no data loss, using EaseUS Partition Master is the safest and most efficient method. It can convert your drive from FAT32 to exFAT without formatting. If you prefer manual options, Windows utilities like File Explorer, Disk Management, or DiskPart work well. Always back up important data before you convert the file system.

FAQs on How to Convert FAT32 to exFAT

1. Can you reformat a USB drive without losing data?

Usually, normal reformatting always deletes everything. You can back up the data, format the drive, and then restore the data to avoid any actual loss. To switch to exFAT and keep your files, use third-party software like EaseUS Partition Master. It converts FAT32 to exFAT directly, without formatting or data loss.

2. Can I resize an exFAT partition?

Yes, you can resize an exFAT partition. EaseUS Partition Master fully supports resizing, moving, merging, and splitting exFAT partitions. Windows Disk Management cannot resize exFAT, so you need a dedicated tool.

3. How to change USB to exFAT without formatting?

If you want to change a USB to exFAT without formatting, you can use an exFAT tool like EaseUS Partition Master. It helps change your USB to exFAT without formatting.

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