How to format external hard drive from mac to pc​？

An external hard drive is an essential tool for transferring files, backing up data, or expanding storage. However, issues often arise when trying to use the same drive across macOS and Windows. This incompatibility is primarily due to differences in file systems. macOS prefers APFS or HFS+, while Windows defaults to NTFS or FAT32. 

Key Considerations Before Formatting

Backup Data: Formatting erases all data on the drive. Ensure you copy any important files to another device before proceeding.

Understand File Systems:

NTFS: Read-only on Mac unless third-party software is installed.

HFS+ (Mac OS Extended): Not natively supported on Windows.

exFAT: Fully compatible with both macOS and Windows, ideal for large files.

FAT32: Compatible with both, but with a 4GB per-file size limit.

Drive Partitioning: If you need dual compatibility but also specific features from a Mac- or Windows-native system, consider partitioning.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparing the External Hard Drive

Connect the drive to your Mac or PC.

Confirm the current file system:

On Mac: Open Disk Utility, select the drive, and check the format in the details pane.

On Windows: Right-click the drive in File Explorer, choose Properties, and view the file system.

2. Choosing the Right File System

Use exFAT for cross-platform compatibility.

Use NTFS if the drive is primarily for Windows but install Mac software like Paragon NTFS for macOS.

Use APFS or HFS+ for Mac-specific use and install third-party drivers for Windows if needed.

3. Formatting the Drive on macOS

Open Disk Utility:

Navigate to Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility.

Select the Drive:

Choose the external hard drive from the left panel.

Erase the Drive:

Click the Erase button at the top of the window.

Configure Format Settings:

Name: Assign a name for the drive.

Format: Choose exFAT for compatibility.

Scheme: Select GUID Partition Map.

Confirm and Format:

Click Erase and wait for the process to complete.

Verify the Drive:

Once formatted, verify the drive is recognized and writable on both Mac and PC.

4. Formatting the Drive on Windows

Open Disk Management:

Press Win + X and select Disk Management.

Locate the Drive:

Identify the external drive in the list (ensure you select the correct one).

Delete Existing Partition (if needed):

Right-click the partition, choose Delete Volume, and confirm.

Create a New Partition:

Right-click the unallocated space, choose New Simple Volume, and follow the wizard.

Select File System:

Choose exFAT for cross-compatibility or NTFS if used primarily on Windows.

Complete Formatting:

Assign a drive letter and label the volume.

Click Finish to complete the setup.

Advanced Tips

Partitioning for Dual Use:

On Mac: Use Disk Utility to create separate partitions, one for APFS and one for exFAT.

On Windows: Use Disk Management to create NTFS and exFAT partitions.

Third-Party Tools:

Consider software like Paragon NTFS for Mac or Tuxera NTFS for read/write NTFS support on macOS.

Use MacDrive to access Mac-formatted drives on Windows.

Regular Backups:

Use macOS’s Time Machine or Windows’ Backup and Restore features for periodic backups to avoid data loss.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Drive Not Recognized:

Ensure the correct file system is used.

Update macOS or Windows to the latest version.

Slow Transfer Speeds:

Check if the drive supports USB 3.0 or higher.

Avoid using unpowered USB hubs.

File Size Errors:

Switch from FAT32 to exFAT for files larger than 4GB.