How to Format SD Card or USB Drive on Chromebook (2026)
by
Frank Cross
Post Updated: January 18, 2026
To format an SD card or USB drive on a Chromebook, insert the drive, open the Files app (Alt + Shift + M), right-click the drive’s name in the sidebar, and select “Format device”.
From my 15 years of daily tech adventures, I’ve discovered that giving your drives a fresh format once a year significantly extends their lifespan.
In 2026, ChromeOS makes this easier than ever, but you need to choose the right file system (exFAT vs FAT32) to avoid errors later.
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💾 How to Format Your Drive (Step-by-Step)
1. Insert & Open Files App
Plug your drive into the USB-A or USB-C port. Then, open the Files app.
Shortcut: Press Alt + Shift + M
2. Right-Click to Format
Look at the left sidebar. Locate your USB Drive or SD Card (it usually appears under “Downloads”).
- Right-click (or two-finger tap) on the drive name.
- Select Format device from the menu.
3. Choose the Right File System
A popup will ask you to choose a format. This is the most important step.
exFAT (Recommended)
Best for modern storage. Handles files larger than 4GB. Works on Windows & Mac too.
FAT32 (Legacy)
Good for old car stereos or small drives. Cannot hold files larger than 4GB.
4. Confirm & Erase
⚠️ Warning: This will delete EVERYTHING on the drive.
Click Format to begin. The process usually takes 10–30 seconds. Do not unplug the drive until you see the “Formatting complete” notification.
🛠️ Help! “Formatting Failed” or Error?
If the standard method fails, your drive might have a corrupted partition (common if it was used for Linux or Raspberry Pi). Here is the secret fix used by experts:
The “Recovery Utility” Trick
- Install the Chromebook Recovery Utility extension.
- Open the extension and click the Gear icon ⚙️ (top right).
- Select “Erase recovery media”.
- Select your USB drive and click Continue > Erase now.
- This “nukes” the partition table. Now try formatting it normally in the Files app again.
🎥 Watch the Video Guide
🔗 More Chromebook Guides
- How to Connect a Printer to a Chromebook
- How to Connect to Wi-Fi on Chromebook
- How to Install Android Apps on Chromebook
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