How to Format USB Using CMD in Windows 10/11

How to Format USB Using CMD in Windows 10 – Step-by-Step Guide

Many users face issues with their USB drives: corrupted files, write protection, or drives not formatting through the standard right-click method. In such cases, using Command Prompt (CMD) is a powerful and reliable solution. This post will guide you step-by-step on how to "format USB using cmd windows 10" using the diskpart tool.

Why Use CMD to Format a USB?

Fix write-protected USBs
Remove hidden partitions or malware
Force format even when Windows GUI fails
Completely wipe data for security reasons

⚠️ Important Warning

Formatting will erase all data on the USB drive. Please back up important files before starting.

Requirements

Windows 10 PC or laptop
USB Pen Drive connected to your computer
Basic understanding of CMD

🖥 Step-by-Step to "format USB using cmd windows 10"

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator

Click the Start Menu → Type cmd → Right-click on “Command Prompt” → Click “Run as Administrator”.

Step 2: Launch DiskPart

diskpart

Step 3: List All Disks

list disk

This shows all storage devices connected to your system. Identify your USB by size.

Step 4: Select the USB Disk

select disk X

Replace X with your USB disk number. Example: select disk 1

Step 5: Clean the Disk

clean

This command removes all partitions and data from the USB drive.

Step 6: Create a New Primary Partition

create partition primary

Step 7: Select the Partition

select partition 1

Step 8: Mark Partition as Active

active

Step 9: Format the USB Drive

format fs=fat32 quick

For NTFS, use format fs=ntfs quick

Step 10: Assign Drive Letter

assign

Step 11: Exit DiskPart

exit

FAT32 vs NTFS – Which to Use?

FAT32 is compatible with most devices including Mac, Linux, gaming consoles, and older systems. However, it has a 4GB file size limit. NTFS supports large files and is faster, but works best with Windows systems.

My Experience with CMD USB Formatting

There was a time when my 32GB USB drive refused to format using Windows. It kept showing “Windows was unable to complete the format.” I tried third-party tools, but nothing worked.

That’s when I learned to "format USB using cmd windows 10". The DiskPart tool wiped it clean, removed hidden partitions from an old bootable Linux setup, and let me use it again like new. Since then, I always use CMD for any USB-related issues. It gives full control and works faster than any GUI method.

Common Errors and Fixes

Error: "Disk is write-protected" → Use command: attributes disk clear readonly before cleaning
Error: "No usable free extent could be found" → Ensure no other partitions exist or clean again
Error: "The system cannot find the file specified" → Try reconnecting the USB drive and start over

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Conclusion

Learning how to "format USB using cmd windows 10" can save you from frustrating formatting errors and corrupted drives. CMD gives you total control and allows deep-level formatting that GUI tools often can’t handle.

Have you tried this method? Share your thoughts or problems in the comments below!

How to Format USB Using CMD in Windows 10/11 – Step-by-Step Guide