What Is the Best GoPro SD Card Format? [Top Pick and How-to Guide]

The GoPro camera is one of the most widely used cameras, and SD cards are an essential part of every GoPro camera's accessory kit. Without one, you won't get very far. Unlike other types of cameras, GoPros do not have built-in memory that can be used to store still photos or video recordings.

As a result, it requires an external SD card, which in turn makes formatting the SD card an issue to address. To achieve the best performance and continuous recording from your GoPro camera, it's essential to use microSD cards that are known to work well with your specific camera model. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to format an SD card for your GoPro camera.

What Is the Best Format for a GoPro SD Card?

Formatting can be an excellent solution if you need to erase your GoPro SD card or address any issues. You can format your GoPro SD card on any device that supports the SDXC file format. To connect it with other devices, you might need a card reader or adapter. Let's explore the different GoPro SD card options and compare them.

How to Set the GoPro SD Card Format [4 Solutions]

When initially configuring your camera, it's advised to format the SD card. If your SD card is behaving improperly, you can attempt formatting it on your computer to check if that resolves the issue. Below are various methods to format a GoPro SD card: 1. Format through GoPro Camera: - Power on your GoPro and access the settings menu. - Navigate to "System" or "Preferences," then choose "Format SD Card." - Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the formatting process. 2. Format using a Computer: - Connect your SD card to your computer using an SD card reader. - Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac). - Locate the SD card, usually labeled as "Removable Disk" or a similar name. - Right-click (Windows) or Control-click (Mac) on the SD card icon, then select "Format." - Choose "FAT32" or "ExFAT" as the file system (depending on your needs), then click "Format." 3. Using a Third-Party Formatting Tool: - Download and install a reliable SD card formatting tool, such as tools Partition Master or SD Memory Card Formatter. - Insert the SD card into your computer's card reader. - Launch the formatting tool and select the SD card from the list of available drives. - Choose the desired file system and click "Format" or "Start" to initiate the process. Remember to back up any important data before formatting, as this process will erase all content on the card.

How to Format GoPro SD Card using tools Partition Master 1. **Download and Install**: First, download the tools Partition Master software from their official website. Ensure you choose the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows or Mac). 2. **Launch the Software**: After installation, open tools Partition Master on your computer. 3. **Connect Your GoPro SD Card**: Insert the GoPro SD card into an SD card reader and connect it to your computer. The software should automatically detect the card. 4. **Select the SD Card**: In the main interface of tools Partition Master, locate the SD card in the list of disks and partitions. It will typically be labeled as "Removable Disk" or have the manufacturer's name. 5. **Format the SD Card**: Right-click on the SD card partition and select "Format". A warning message will appear, reminding you that formatting will erase all data. If you're sure, click "OK" to proceed. 6. **Choose File System**: In the Format dialog box, select the desired file system for your GoPro. Generally, choose "FAT32" for compatibility with most devices, including older GoPros. However, if your GoPro supports it, you can also choose "exFAT" for larger files. 7. **Allocation Unit Size**: Keep the default allocation unit size or choose a suitable one based on your needs. For general use, the default is fine. 8. **Confirm and Start Formatting**: Click "OK" to confirm the format settings. A final warning will appear; click "Yes" to start the formatting process. 9. **Wait for Formatting**: The software will now format your GoPro SD card. This process may take a few minutes, depending on the size of the card. 10. **Eject and Reuse**: Once the formatting is complete, safely eject the SD card from your computer and insert it back into your GoPro. It should now be ready for use. Remember, always backup important data before formatting, as the process permanently deletes all files.

Unlike 64GB or 128GB SD cards, 256GB SD cards cannot be formatted to FAT32 using Windows Disk Management or Diskpart. Due to FAT32's 32GB size limitation, you'll need to employ an external, sophisticated FAT32 formatting tool such as tools Partition Master Free. Make sure to back up any important files beforehand, as formatting with this program will erase the data. The process generally involves the following steps, similar to what is described above:

Step 1. Locate your SD card and right-click on the partition you wish to format, then select "Format."

Step 2. Assign a new partition label, file system (NTFS/FAT32/EXT2/EXT3/EXT4/exFAT), and cluster size to the selected partition, then click "OK".

Step 3. Click "Yes" on the pop-up window to proceed.

Step 4. Click the "Execute 1 Task(s)" button on the toolbar, then click "Apply" to begin formatting your SD card.

The above are the exact steps to format the GoPro SD card with Partition Master. Additionally, the tool can also convert NTFS to FAT32, or convert MBR to GPT.

How to Format a GoPro SD Card on a Computer

You'll typically use your own computer to format the SD card. Here's how you can format the SD card that came with your GoPro camera using a Windows PC:

Step 1: Insert the SD card into your computer's card reader.

Step 2: Right-click on the SD card drive within "This PC" and select "Format" from the context menu.

Step 3: Modify the file system settings as needed; use ExFAT for SD cards with a capacity of 64 GB or more, and FAT32 for cards with 32 GB or less.

Step 4: Choose "Quick Format," and then click the "Start" button.

How to Format GoPro SD Card on a Mac

Don't worry if you're using a Mac. You can format the GoPro SD card on a Mac using these steps.

Step 1: Open the "disk utility" by clicking on its icon.

Step 2: On the left panel, choose "External" and then select your SD card.

Step 3: Choose a file type. Select FAT if your SD card is 32GB or smaller. For SD cards larger than 64GB, it's recommended to choose the exFAT file system. To delete selected items, mark them first. To start formatting, click the corresponding button. You're done when you see that the formatting has been successfully completed.

Notice: If the GoPro SD card is not showing up on your Mac, you can fix the issue of Mac not recognizing GoPro.

How to Format GoPro SD Card in GoPro Camera Formatting your GoPro's SD card is a straightforward process that ensures optimal performance and erases all existing data. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to format the SD card directly in your GoPro camera: 1. **Power On Your GoPro**: Press the power button once to turn on your GoPro camera. 2. **Enter Settings Menu**: Press the Mode button repeatedly until you reach the settings menu, which is indicated by a gear icon. 3. **Navigate to "System"**: Using the Up and Down buttons, scroll to the "System" option and press the Shutter button to select it. 4. **Select "Format SD Card"**: Scroll down using the Up and Down buttons until you see the "Format SD Card" option and press the Shutter button to choose it. 5. **Confirm Formatting**: A warning message will appear, asking you to confirm if you want to format the SD card. Press the Shutter button again to proceed with the formatting. 6. **Wait for Completion**: The camera will now format the SD card, which may take a few moments. Do not turn off the camera during this process. 7. **Formatting Complete**: Once the formatting is finished, your GoPro will return to the main menu. You'll see a confirmation message indicating that the SD card has been formatted successfully. 8. **Reformatting Recommended**: For best results, it's recommended to format your SD card in your GoPro regularly, especially before using it with a new camera or after encountering any errors. Remember that formatting will erase all content on the SD card, so ensure you've backed up any important files before proceeding.

Formatting can be done on certain camera models using the camera's onboard menu. This is a quick and straightforward process, eliminating the need to access the mobile app. Here are the steps to format a GoPro SD Card directly on your GoPro: 1. **Power On the Camera**: Press the power button to turn on your GoPro camera. 2. **Access the Main Menu**: Press the Shutter button once to enter the main menu. You might need to navigate using the Up, Down, Left, and Right buttons, depending on your model. 3. **Select "Settings"**: Scroll through the menu options and select "Settings" using the buttons or touch screen (if applicable). 4. **Navigate to "System"**: Within the Settings menu, find and select "System" or "Storage." 5. **Choose "Format"**: Depending on your camera model, you may need to further navigate to locate the "Format" option. 6. **Confirm Formatting**: A prompt will appear asking you to confirm if you want to format the SD card. Read the warning message carefully, as this will erase all data on the card. If you're sure, press the Shutter button or the corresponding button to proceed. 7. **Wait for the Process to Complete**: The camera will now begin formatting the SD card. This should only take a few moments. 8. **Verification**: Once completed, your GoPro will display a message indicating that the formatting is finished. Press the power button to exit the menu and return to the shooting mode. Remember to always back up any important footage before formatting your SD card.

Step 1: Turn on the camera and insert the memory card into the device.

Insert the Memory Card into GoPro

Step 2: Launch the menu seen on the secondary screen (swipe down).

Step 3: Proceed to the Preferences menu.

Step 4: To reset, scroll down to the bottom.

Step 5: Select Format SD Card from the menu.

Conclusion

The optimal format for a GoPro SD card is exFAT or FAT32. Formatting a GoPro SD card is not as intricate as it might initially appear. Utilizing the methods outlined in this article to accomplish the task efficiently and hassle-free is adequate. Hence, seize the chance to format your GoPro SD card without compromising any data.

FAQs about Formatting a GoPro SD Card

< strong > 1. What format should the SD card be for GoPro? < / strong > The SD card for a GoPro should typically be in the FAT32 file system format. This is the most compatible format for GoPro cameras, allowing them to recognize and work with the memory card effectively. However, for SD cards larger than 32 GB, it's recommended to use exFAT format, as FAT32 has a limit on file size. Always check your specific GoPro model's requirements, as newer models might support the exFAT format as well.

The format must adhere to specific requirements based on the memory card's storage capacity. For capacities of 32GB or less, utilize the microSDHC-compatible FAT32 file system. Cards with a capacity of 64GB or greater require the exFAT file system as per the microSDXC specification.

2. What does it mean to format an SD card for GoPro? Formatting an SD card for GoPro means preparing the memory card specifically for use with your GoPro camera. This process involves erasing all existing data on the card, setting it up with the appropriate file system, and ensuring compatibility with the camera. When you format an SD card for your GoPro, it helps to optimize performance, prevent errors, and ensure that the camera can record videos and photos seamlessly. Always remember to backup any important data before formatting, as this process will permanently delete all files on the card.

Formatting an SD card deletes all data on the card and prepares it for use with your GoPro. To format the SD card, you can: 1. Transfer the data from the HERO (2018) camera's SD card to your computer. This ensures that you save any important files before proceeding with the formatting process. 2. Connect the SD card to your computer using an SD card reader or by inserting it directly into your computer if it has a built-in SD slot. 3. On your computer, locate the SD card in the File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac). 4. Right-click on the SD card icon and select "Format" from the context menu. For Windows, you might see an option called "Erase" instead. 5. Choose the file system as "FAT32" or "exFAT" depending on your preference and compatibility with your devices. FAT32 is generally compatible with most devices but has a 4GB file size limit, while exFAT allows for larger files but may not be supported by older devices. 6. Click "Start" or "Erase" to begin the formatting process. A warning message may appear, reminding you that all data will be erased. Confirm your choice to proceed. 7. Wait for the formatting to complete, which should only take a few seconds. 8. Safely remove the SD card from your computer and insert it back into your HERO (2018) camera. The camera will now recognize the formatted card and be ready for use. Remember that formatting the SD card will erase everything on it, so always back up your files before formatting.

3. Why can't I play my GoPro videos? This issue could arise due to several reasons. Here are some common troubleshooting steps: 1. **Check the Video Format**: Ensure your device supports the video format (.MP4 or .MOV) that your GoPro records in. If not, you may need to convert the files. 2. **Update Software**: Make sure both your GoPro and the device you're trying to play the videos on have the latest firmware and software updates. 3. **File Corruption**: Sometimes, the video file might get corrupted during transfer or recording. Try transferring the video again or use data recovery tools. 4. **Wrong Player**: Try using different media players like VLC or QuickTime to see if the issue persists. 5. **Memory Card Issues**: Format your GoPro's memory card on the camera itself, as formatting on other devices can cause compatibility issues. 6. **Connectivity Problems**: If you're trying to play wirelessly, ensure your Wi-Fi connection is stable. 7. **Video Encoding**: High-resolution videos might require more powerful hardware to play smoothly. Check if your device meets the requirements. If none of these work, you may need professional assistance or contact GoPro's customer support for further help.

The most common issue when experiencing video playback problems with a GoPro camera is compatibility issues with the H.265 video compression utilized by the camera. The ideal solution is to switch the video format to the widely supported H.264 MP4.