Samsung T7 exFAT or NTFS: Which One Is Better?

How to choose between exFAT or NTFS? Which one is better? This answer is not certain. Read the below article to make your decisions.

Maggie

By Maggie Updated on August 25, 2023

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User case: formatting Samsung T7 SSD

I just got my T7, I looked it up online and it says it's formatted to exFAT. I'm pretty sure I read that any drive one intends to record gameplay on and then transfer it to PC that it must be formatted to NTFS.

I want to be sure this is true before I go messing with the SSD.

Please and thank you for any and all help

- Question from Microsoft Community

About exFAT and NTFS

The Samsung SSD T7 emerges as an ultra-swift external storage solution, characterized by its remarkable data-safeguarding capabilities. When you get your Samsung SSD and wondering how to choose between exFAT and NTFS. Before that, let’s know more about exFAT and NTFS.

ReFS vs NTFS

NTFS corresponds to New Technology Files System, a more contemporary drive formatting system introduced by Microsoft back in 1993. Over time, it has evolved into a prevalent file system choice for contemporary Windows users. On the other hand, exFAT, an abbreviation for Extended File Allocation Table, emerged in 2006 as a successor to FAT32. Specifically tailored for flash drives like USB memory sticks and SD cards, exFAT serves as a middle ground between the realms of FAT32 and the comprehensive NTFS file systems.

Navigating the selection dilemma between SamsungT7 NTFS or exFAT can be puzzling for many users, particularly when it comes to formatting your Samsung SSD as in the above user case. Knowing the chief distinction between these two options holds the key to making an informed decision.

Should I format to NTFS or exFAT for SSD?

NTFS and exFAT have some minor differences in the following sections. After reading the below content and make your own decisions.

✌Limits:
When we look at the FAT32 file system and compare it to NTFS and exFAT, the latter two don't really have practical limits on how big files or partitions can be.
✌Speed:
There isn't a single file system that's the fastest for everyone. Let's take an example: When you have a neat and organized FAT32 partition, it's quicker than NTFS for basic reading and writing tasks. However, NTFS outperforms FAT32 when dealing with lots of files in directories. This makes it tough to say which file system is definitively faster. Still, many users mention that exFAT tends to be slower than NTFS.
✌Compatibility:
NTFS works on all Windows versions, but on Mac and certain Linux distributions, it's only for reading and not writing. Sony PlayStation consoles don't support NTFS, and even Microsoft's Xbox 360 can't read NTFS drives (though the newer Xbox One can). Most other devices are even less likely to be compatible with NTFS.
exFAT is actually more compatible compared to NTFS. Mac OS X allows you to fully read and write on exFAT drives, and you can access exFAT on Linux after adding some extra software. Additionally, exFAT works with certain devices like digital cameras that can't handle NTFS. However, it's not compatible with Microsoft's Xbox 360, although the Xbox One is an exception. The PlayStation 3 doesn't support exFAT, but there are reports that the PlayStation 4 does.
✌Ideal Usage:
For your Windows system drive and other internal drives, NTFS is suitable. If you're looking for broader compatibility across various devices, especially when using different devices, exFAT is a better choice than FAT32.

In the quick comparison between NTFS and exFAT, there isn't a direct answer about which format is superior for an SSD drive. If you intend to use the SSD as an external drive on both Windows and Mac, exFAT is the better option. However, if the SSD will only be used as an internal drive on Windows, then NTFS is an excellent decision. So, the decision between "NTFS or exFAT for external SSD" largely depends on your specific needs.

Suggestion: Always backup your Samsung SSD to keep data safe

After getting acquainted with the comparison between exFAT and NTFS, you may have your own decisions on which kind of file system to format your Samsung SSD. Formatting your Samsung T7 SSD will erase everything on your Samsung T7 SSD. What’s more, since Samsung SSD is highly compatible with various devices, it can get infected if meet certain computer virus or bugs. Thus, taking a precautionary measure to back up your Samsung T7 SSD is needed. Here I suggest the best and free Samsung T7 SSD backup software----AOMEI Backupper Standard for you.

♥As for functions, it allows for file backup, partition backup, system backup and disk backup. Each one comes with practical features like schedule backup, backup scheme, incremental or differential backup, image splitting, encryption, email notification, etc.
♥It can support almost all storage devices recognized by Windows, including IDE, SATA, SCSI, SSD, USB external disks, hardware RAID, Network Attached Storage (NAS) and so on.
♥It has high compatibility that supports Windows PC operating systems such as Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. If you are s Server user, please try AOMEI Backupper Server.

How to backup your Samsung T7 SSD (Step-by-step guide)

Before you start, please make the following preparations:

★Connect your Samsung T7 SSD to your computer and make sure it can be detected.
★Download this free and reliable backup software via the below link.

Download Freeware Win 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP
Secure Download

Step 1. Launch AOMEI Backupper. In the left tab page, select Backup and then select Disk Backup.

Disk Backup

Step 2. Click Add Disk. Also, you can choose to rename this backup using the Task Name field to help you distinguish it from other backups.

Add Disk

Step 3. In the pop up window, select Samsung T7 SSD as the source disk to back up.

Select Disk

Step 4. Click where the arrow points to select a destination path to store the image file. Please note that confirming if the destination path has sufficient space to save the image file is very necessary.

Select Destination

Step 5. Click the Start Backup button to begin your Samsung backup SSD.

Start Backup

Final words

When you consider the issue of Samsung t7 exFAT or NTFS, there’s not only one answer for you. In fact, you can make the decision based on your own needs. Additionally, I suggest backup your Samsung T7 SSD with a reliable backup and restore software.

AOMEI Backupper is not only professional backup and restore software, but also one of the best external hard drive cloning software. If you want to transfer your SSD from one device to another, you can give this software a try!

Maggie
Maggie · Editor
Maggie is a technical editor from AOMEI and troubleshoots technical problems against data protection. She has received professional and systematic technical training. With a focus on user experience, security, and problem-solving, she always puts herself in the readers' shoes and provides them with valuable technical insights.