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Difference Between exFAT and FAT32
The file systems exFAT (Extended File Allocation Table) and FAT32 (File Allocation Table 32) are used to manage data storage on a variety of media, such as USB drives, memory cards, and external hard drives. Because of their compatibility with many operating systems and devices, both file systems have been widely adopted. However, they range significantly in terms of features, maximum file size, and compatibility.
Read this article to find out more about exFAT and FAT32 and how they are different from each other.
What is exFAT?
Microsoft created exFAT (Extended File Allocation Table) to address some of the limitations of its predecessor, FAT32. It was designed to create a lightweight, efficient, and dependable file system capable of handling enormous files and storing large amounts of data. ExFAT is a file system format that is extensively used on detachable storage devices such as USB flash drives, SD cards, and external hard drives, as well as in some embedded systems and consumer electronics.
Large File Support − ExFAT's capacity to accommodate individual file sizes bigger than 4 GB is one of its key advantages over FAT32. The maximum file size in FAT32 is 4 GB, which might be inconvenient when working with huge media files, high-definition films, and disc pictures. This constraint is removed by exFAT, which allows for the storage and transfer of data of nearly any size.
Large Volume Size − ExFAT also overcomes the partition size limits of FAT32. The highest partition size supported by FAT32 is 2 terabytes (TB), which may be insufficient for modern high-capacity storage devices. ExFAT, on the other hand, can accommodate partitions of up to 128 petabytes (1 PB = 1024 TB), making it ideal for devices with large storage capacities.
Compatibility − Windows XP (with updates), Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, macOS 10.6.5 and later, and many recent Linux variants all support exFAT. ExFAT drivers are available from Microsoft for older versions of Windows, allowing for more cross-platform compatibility.
Directory Structure and File Name Support − ExFAT has a basic directory structure similar to FAT32, which makes it easy to deploy on a variety of devices and systems. Long file names (up to 255 characters), Unicode characters, and case sensitivity are supported, allowing for more descriptive and internationally compatible file names.
What is FAT32?
FAT32 (File Allocation Table 32) is a popular file system that dates back to the early 1990s. It is a development of Microsoft's original FAT16 (File Allocation Table 16) file system to provide a more efficient and expandable file system. FAT32 is a file system that is extensively used on storage devices such as USB flash drives, memory cards, and older external hard drives.
Let's get into the specifics of FAT32 −
File Allocation Table (FAT) − The File Allocation Table, which is a data structure that keeps track of the allocation state of each cluster (a fixed-size group of sectors) on the storage device, is at the heart of the FAT32 file system. The FAT file system serves as a map for the operating system, allowing it to locate and access files stored on the device.
Cluster Size − FAT32 uses a larger cluster size than its predecessor, FAT16. The smallest unit of allocation on a storage device is the cluster size, and a larger cluster size means more efficient use of disc space for larger items but more wasted space for smaller files. The cluster size in FAT32 varies according to partition size; however, it commonly ranges from 4 KB to 32 KB.
Maximum File Size − FAT32's capacity to accommodate larger file sizes is one of its main advantages over FAT16. FAT16 had a maximum file size limit of 2 GB, which could be restrictive for certain programs, especially as media file sizes increased. The maximum file size in FAT32 is about 4 GB, allowing for larger multimedia files and programs.
Partition Size Limit − FAT32 allows for greater partition sizes than FAT16. While FAT16 had a total partition size limit of 2 GB, FAT32 can support partitions up to 2 terabytes (TB). As a result, FAT32 is compatible with new high-capacity storage devices.
Difference between exFAT and FAT32
The following table highlights the major differences between exFAT and FAT32 −
Characteristics |
exFAT |
FAT32 |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility |
Widely supported by modern OSes. |
Compatible with older and modern OSes. |
Partition Size Limit |
Supports partitions up to 128 PB. |
Supports partitions up to 2 TB. |
Directory Structure |
Simple and easy to implement. |
Simple and straightforward. |
File Size Limit |
Supports files larger than 4 GB. |
Limited to files up to 4 GB. |
File Name Support |
Supports long file names (255 chars). |
Supports short file names (8.3 format). |
Licensing |
Specifications publicly available without additional licensing fees. |
Originally proprietary to Microsoft. |
Data Integrity |
No journaling support, higher risk of data corruption. |
No journaling support, similar risk. |
Cluster Size |
Uses larger cluster sizes for efficiency. |
Uses smaller cluster sizes. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, exFAT and FAT32 are two unique file systems with distinct advantages and disadvantages. The choice between exFAT and FAT32 should be made based on the specific device, operating system compatibility, file size requirements, and overall storage requirements.
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