Deciding between file formats like NTFS, HFS+, FAT 32 and ex-FAT depends on nature or your requirements. While NTFS files have the most advantages, ex-FAT can be used on both Windows and macOS. Read more.
We use storage devices on an everyday basis. Whether it is using an external memory hard drive, a USB like a pen drive, or even a memory card, a specific file format exists on all of them. The same can be said about the drives on your computer (desktop or laptop) systems.
People who use multiple systems with different operating systems like Windows and macOS can attest to the fact that using external hard drives for memory and storage can be difficult.
This is because operating systems allow for certain levels of permissions and restrictions when it comes to reading different file formats.
A question, which remains at the top of everyone’s mind is- ‘Which File System is Best for me’?
In this article, we speak to leading tech experts and tell you about the major file systems. In addition, we discuss the pros and cons of each of them, to help you reach a conclusive judgment.
File systems – what are they?
Before we discuss the different file systems, it would be best to understand what they are in the first place. This will allow us to shed some light upon their nature, the kind of usage they imply, and the positives and negatives attached to the same.
According to experts, a file system is a way in which data is-
- Stored on a Drive
- Processed/Read on a Drive
- Analyzed for Execution on a Drive
- Secured on a Drive
A file system fixes rules on what kind of information can be attached on the drive. It also allows data to be named, renamed, and protected. There are four major types of file systems, which are majorly used in the world-
- New Technology File System or NTFS
- HFS+ or Hierarchical File System Plus
- FAT 32 or File Allocation Table 32
- Ex-FAT or Extensible File Allocation Table
In the following section, we will look at each of the file systems in some detail.
4 main types of file systems
1. NTFS
Perhaps the most commonly used and preferred form of a file system, NTFS was first created by Microsoft in 1993. It continues to be one of the most advanced file systems and is the default setting on all Windows non-removable drives. NTFS Files can only be read on macOS. If you wish to write to NTFS files on your Apple system, you need to install a third-party software or edit the macOS extension. The benefits of using NT file system is obvious. NTFS file systems are easy to use, secure, and offer great customization options. You can set up individual file permissions for different users. It allows file compression which help you save more files in the same drive. It eliminates the 4GB size limit of FAT family and is well-suited for today’s large file handling and large disk capacity.
2. HFS+
HFS+ file systems are macOS based and can allow you to read and write files on Apple’s operating system. They are quite good if you are only using macOS on all devices. However, if you wish to shift between HFS+ and Windows OS, then the same is not compatible. HFS+ file systems support journaling much in the same way Windows does for NTFS. Time Machine, Apple’s built-in backup and recovery software, requires HFS+ formatted external drive as well. However, because of restrictive applications and use, not a lot of people prefer HFS+ for an external hard drive for file sharing. Apple uses APFS as the default file system on its Mac lineups running macOS High Sierra or later. APFS has its own advantages such as encryption and faster read-write speed on solid-state drives, but it has so many restrictions on OS that it is not a good option for removable disks.
3. FAT32
FAT32 is an evolution over the original FAT formats. FAT32 is a good option for people who switch hard drives between Windows and macOS systems. However, if you are a video editor or a designer, you will find using the FAT32 format a bit of a pain. This is because the file size limit cannot exceed more than 4GB! This is a major handicap, which does not allow it to be used by the majority. Normal file sizes, even 1080P movies, exceed the 4GB limit.
4. Ex-FAT
Ex-FAT came into being to simply remove one major impediment of FAT32 file systems- the size limit! On ex-FAT file systems, you will be able to move around file systems of more than 4GB. However, a number of experts say that ex-FAT is unsafe, does not support macOS Time Machine support and there is a huge chance of data corruption if you use one. Even though the promise of ex-FAT is a lot, it fails to deliver on literally every single front.
The final word
Between the four types of file systems mentioned above, most of us prefer NTFS. This is also because most external hardware manufacturers use NTFS as preloaded on their storage devices. If you wish to use NTFS file systems and allow them to be read and written on macOS and Apple systems, installing a free NTFS for Mac software is the easiest and most convenient way to go about it.
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