How to long format a micro sd card​?

A microSD card serves as a compact storage solution for devices such as smartphones, cameras, drones, and tablets. Over time, it may accumulate errors, become corrupted, or need to be repurposed, which is when performing a “long format” can be especially helpful. Unlike a quick format that merely removes file system pointers, a long format thoroughly wipes the card, making it ideal for resolving deeper issues.

Need for Long Formatting

Before we get into the steps, it’s essential to understand why a long format is necessary:

Error resolution: If your microSD card is malfunctioning or displaying error messages, a long format can correct the file system, making the card usable again.

Corruption fixing: Files might appear corrupted due to improper removal or formatting, and a long format ensures a fresh, clean start.

Safe reuse: For security, when you want to erase all data and reset the card to factory settings, a long format ensures that no data remains accessible.

Partition issues: A long format can fix partitioning problems that prevent access or use of the microSD card.

The Key Difference: Long Format vs. Quick Format

Quick Format: This option removes files from the microSD card but doesn’t check for bad sectors or thoroughly wipe the data.

Long Format: A more thorough process, it checks each sector on the card and marks any damaged sections as unusable. It also erases the data fully, which means files cannot be recovered without specialized software.

When Should You Perform a Long Format on a MicroSD Card?

You should consider a long format if:

The card is showing errors, not being detected properly, or has corrupt files.

You want to repurpose the card for a different device.

You’re preparing the card for safe disposal or sharing with others.

The card has accumulated fragmented data and slow write/read speeds.

Precautions Before Formatting

Before proceeding with a long format, there are a few precautions to ensure you don’t lose important data:

Backup Files: Ensure that all essential files are backed up to another storage device. A long format will completely erase all data on the card.

Check for Viruses or Malware: If the microSD card was infected with malware, the formatting process could potentially spread this issue to your device. Scan your microSD card with antivirus software before proceeding.

Ensure Proper Power Supply: Interruptions in power while formatting can corrupt the formatting process. Ensure your device is sufficiently charged or plugged in to avoid disruptions.

Methods for Long Formatting a MicroSD Card

Here are several ways to perform a long format, depending on the device you are using (Windows PC, Mac, or Android):

Method 1: Long Format a MicroSD Card Using Windows

Insert the microSD Card into Your Computer

Use a card reader if your PC doesn’t have a built-in microSD card slot. Insert the microSD card into the reader and connect it to your computer.

Open ‘This PC’ or ‘My Computer’

Locate the microSD card in the list of available drives.

Right-Click the microSD Card

Right-click the drive letter corresponding to the microSD card.

Select ‘Format’

From the context menu, select “Format…” to open the formatting dialog box.

Choose the Formatting Options

Under the “File System” dropdown, select the file system you prefer. For most users, FAT32 is the best choice, but if the card is larger than 32GB, exFAT may be necessary.

For the Format Options, make sure to uncheck Quick Format. This ensures a long format is performed.

Start the Formatting Process

Click Start to begin the long format. Windows will thoroughly scan the microSD card for any bad sectors while also erasing the data.

Wait for the Process to Complete

The formatting process may take several minutes to an hour, depending on the size and condition of the card. Do not remove the microSD card during this process.

Finish

Once completed, the microSD card will be fully formatted and ready for use again. You can now transfer files back onto it.

Method 2: Long Format a MicroSD Card Using Mac

Insert the MicroSD Card into Your Mac

If your Mac does not have a direct microSD card slot, use an external card reader.

Open Disk Utility

Navigate to “Applications” > “Utilities” > “Disk Utility” on your Mac.

Select the MicroSD Card

In the left panel, choose the microSD card you want to format.

Click ‘Erase’

At the top of the Disk Utility window, click the “Erase” button.

Choose the Format Type

Select the desired file format (usually exFAT for cards larger than 32GB, or FAT32 for smaller cards).

Deselect Quick Format

For a long format, choose to perform a full format, which checks for bad sectors and wipes the data entirely.

Start the Formatting Process

Click “Erase” to begin the formatting. Wait for the process to complete.

Completion

When the format is complete, your microSD card will be ready for use again.

Method 3: Long Format a MicroSD Card Using Android

Formatting a microSD card on Android requires a slightly different approach, especially if you’re using the card in a phone or tablet:

Insert the MicroSD Card

Insert the microSD card into the device’s card slot.

Open Settings

Go to Settings > Storage (or Storage & USB, depending on the device).

Select the microSD Card

Tap on the microSD card listed under the “Portable Storage” section.

Tap on Format

You will see an option to format the SD card. Tap Format or Erase and Format.

Confirm Formatting

Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the long format.

Wait for Completion

The device will perform the long format, which can take several minutes. Once done, the card will be ready for use.

Post-Formatting Tasks

After you complete a long format on your microSD card, it is essential to follow these steps to optimize the card for use:

Test the Card: Check if the microSD card is being recognized by your device.

Run Diagnostic Tools: Use software tools to check the health of the card. Tools like CrystalDiskInfo for Windows or Disk Utility for Mac can help you identify any remaining issues with the card.

Transfer Files Back: If you had any files backed up, transfer them back to the microSD card.