Do I Need to Format a New SD Card
When it comes to SD card formatting, we often talk about formatting an SD card that already has files stored on it. In such cases, formatting the SD card is usually done for file deletion, SD card erasure, or corrupt drive repair. While for a new SD card, formatting is generally to change its file system so that it can be compatible with corresponding devices.
For example, the NTFS file system is regarded as the default file system format in Windows operating systems. But for cameras and Android devices, the most common file system is FAT32.
So, if the new SD card comes with a FAT32 file system and is correctly recognized by your device, you do not have to format it. If the new SD card has a file system that is not unsupported by your Android phone or other devices, you need to format it to a supported file system.
You can check the file system of your SD card from volume properties.
- Insert the SD card into a card reader and connect the card reader to your computer.
- Press the Windows + E key combination to open File Explorer.
- Right-click the new SD card to select Properties. Then you can see the file system of the new SD card.
How to Format a New SD Card
If the new SD card needs to be formatted for compatibility, how can you format it? You can format the SD card in Android or by using File Explorer. Alternatively, you can use MiniTool Partition Wizard to perform SD card formatting. The formatting feature is available in the free edition of this partition manager.
First, click the button below to download MiniTool Partition Wizard Free. Then you need to install and launch it.
MiniTool Partition Wizard FreeClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
Second, select the new SD card and select the Format Partition option from the left menu bar.
Third, in the next window, type a partition label, choose a file system like FAT32, then click OK.
Finally, click the Apply button located in the bottom left corner.
Further Reading: You Need to Format the Disk Before You Can Use It
Sometimes when you insert an SD card (for used card) into your computer, Windows pops up a message saying that you need to format the disk before you can use it and you cannot access the data stored on the drive. This is usually because the card has a file system that is not recognized by Windows, such as RAW or Ext 2/3/4.
Facing this issue, if there are important files on the card, you cannot format it immediately because this will cause data loss. Before formatting it, you need to use professional data recovery software to extract the useful data from the inaccessible card.
Here MiniTool Power Data Recovery is highly recommended. This file restoration tool allows you to preview found files on your SD card and supports 1 GB of free data recovery. You can download it and have a try.
MiniTool Power Data Recovery FreeClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
After transferring the data from the SD card, you can format it for further use.
Bottom Line
Reading here, we believe you will not be troubled by the question of “Do I need to format a new Micro SD card”. It generally depends on which device you want to use the SD card with.
Please contact us via [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns.
About The Author
Position: Columnist
Shirley graduated from English major and is currently an editor of MiniTool Team. She likes browsing and writing IT-related articles, and is committed to becoming a professional IT problem solver. The topic of her articles are generally about data recovery, data backup, and computer disk management, as well as other IT issues. In spare time, she likes watching movies, hiking and fishing.