Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

Question

What is the fastest file allocation size when formating usb?

Dec 27, 2014 2:40AM PST

Im formatting a flashdrive back to NTSC and want to know what file allocation unit size to use. it offers a default option. Does it matter?

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
Answer
Yes but...
Dec 27, 2014 2:43AM PST

Your application sets which is best. I've seen folk take the time (from days to weeks) to test each size then put the results in a spreadsheet. Me? I take the default so I don't have to invest the time.
Bob

- Collapse -
Answer
depends on the number of files and their sizes
Dec 28, 2014 3:33PM PST

If the files will be large, then go with large allocation size, if it will be a lot of mini megabyte files mostly, then go with smaller size.

- Collapse -
Answer
fastest file allocation size when formating usb
Dec 29, 2014 12:57PM PST

It is like formatting any other drive. It depends how much storage you have. For e.g for 60GB+ it should be formatted with NTFS.