5 Methods to Convert NTFS to FAT32 without Losing Data

Theo Lucia

Nov 16, 2024 • Filed to: Windows Computer Solutions • Proven solutions

FAT32 and NTFS are the two common file systems used by an operating system. While FAT32 is the older version of the file system, it is still popular on many devices. Devices like PS3 still support FAT32 as opposed to the newer NTFS.

As a result, many people often get stuck in situations where they're required to convert NTFS to FAT32 on a hard drive partition. If you're dealing with a similar situation, this blog will help. We've put together a list of the most effective methods to convert NTFS to FAT32 without losing your valuable data.

Part 1: FAT32 vs. NTFS Basic Comparison

As we mentioned earlier FAT32 and NTFS are the two different file systems used by an operating system to read/write data on a drive. NTFS is a newer technology, which offers a multitude of benefits such as high security and efficient data organization.

Here are some differences between the two file systems.

However, despite being the older file version, many devices still support the FAT32 file system only. It means if you have a hard drive with NTFS partition, you'll have to convert it to FAT32 before you can use it.

Now, while converting NTFS to FAT32 isn't challenging, the process can cause potential data loss, especially if you directly format the drive using conventional methods. So, let's guide you through different methods that'll help you convert NTFS to FAT32 without losing data.

Part 2: Convert NTFS to FAT32 without Data Loss

1. AOMEI Partition Assistant

The most convenient way to convert NTFS to FAT32 is to use a dedicated tool like AOMEI Partition Assistant. Unlike the conventional methods, the AOMEI partition assistant will keep your data completely untouched and can be used to convert up to 2TB of volume. Moreover, once the job is done, you can again convert the FAT32 partition back to NTFS without any hassle.

Follow these steps to convert NTFS to FAT32 using AOMEI Partition Assistant.

Step 1: Install and launch AOMEI Partition Assistant on your Windows PC and select "NTFS to FAT32 converter".

Step 2: In the next window, select "NTFS to FAT32" and click "Next".

Step 3: Now, you'll be asked to select the specific partition you want to convert. Make sure to select the right partition.

Step 4: In the pop-up window, you'll be asked to confirm your actions. Simply tap "Proceed" to continue with the process.

That's it; the file system will be converted to FAT32 and you'll be able to access it on the dedicated OS without any interruption.

2. Shrink NTFS disk with Windows Disk Management

Another way to convert NTFS to FAT32 without losing data is to use the Windows Disk Management tool. However, instead of directly formatting the drive to FAT32, you'll first have to shrink the volume to half of its size if you want to keep your data safe.

Here's the step-by-step process to convert NTFS to FAT32 using the Disk Management tool without losing data.

Step 1: Press "Windows" + "X" and select "Disk Management".

Step 2: Right-click on the dedicated partition and select "Shrink Volume".

Step 3: Type the size you want to shrink and select "Shrink".

Step 4: Once the volume is shrunk, format the drive to FAT32, and move the data from NTFS to the new FAT32 partition.

Step 5: In the next step, delete the NTFS partition. This will create a new unallocated space.

Step 6: Again right-click the FAT32 partition and select "Extend Volume". Now, select the unallocated space and tap "Extend".

That's it you drive will restore to the actual size and you won't lose any data during the process. However, since it's a complicated process, it's better to stick to the AOMEI Partition assistant to do the job.

Part 3: Convert NTFS to FAT32 by Formatting Directly (Data Loss)

If you don't want to install third-party software or feel like using Windows Disk Management is a complete challenge, an easier option would be to directly format the NTFS drive in FAT32. However, direct formatting will delete the entire data from the drive so it would be better if you are back-up all your files before moving ahead with the process. Formatting the NTFS drive in FAT32 can lead to data loss. Good news is that you can retrieve data from your partitions with high sucess rate just by a few clicks.

Here are three different ways to format a drive from NTFS to FAT32 file system.

1. CMD

Step 1: Expand the "Start" menu and type "CMD" in the Cortana search box. Right-click the search result and select "Open as Administrator".

Step 2: Once you're in the Command Prompt window, execute the following command.

convert d: /fs:fat32 (Replace "d" with the drive letter that you want to format)

That's how to convert NTFS to FAT32 CMD in a Windows system.

2. Powershell

You can also use Windows Powershell to format an NTFS drive into FAT32. Powershell is a Command-Line utility that's exclusively available on Windows 10 only. So, if you're using an earlier version of Windows, you'd have to stick to the previous conversion method only.

Here's the step-by-step guide to format NTFS partitions in FAT32 using Windows Powershell.

Step 1: Press "Windows" + "X" and select "Windows Powershell Admin".

Step 2: Once you're in the command-line interface, simply type the following command and press Enter.

format /FS: FAT32 D: (Again, make sure to replace "D" with the drive letter that you want to convert).

3. Windows Disk Management

Finally, you can format a drive in the FAT32 file system using the Windows Disk Management tool as well. However, you can only format a drive with up to 32 GB size. If the drive size extends this limitation, the "format" option won't be available for the select drive.

Step 1: Open the Disk Management Tool and right-click the drive that you want to format.

Step 2: Select "Format" and click "Yes".

Step 3: Now, name the drive and use the drop-down menu to change the file system to "FAT32".

Step 4: Press "Ok" and the drive will be formatted to FAT32.

The Bottom Line

That wraps up our guide on different methods to convert NTFS to FAT32. If you're looking for a hassle-free way to convert NTFS to FAT32 file system, we'd recommend using AOMEI partition as it offers a quick and convenient solution without causing any harm to your data.