Chromebooks with SD card slots allow users to expand the storage and store as much data as they want into their SD cards. They can insert their SD card into the SD card slot and use that data whenever needed. Sometimes the SD card gets infected by viruses, which requires formatting, so we can use it again and store our data properly.
In this guide, we will show you some easy ways to format SD card on Chromebook. So you can get your card back to normal and store your data safely.
3 easy methods to format SD card on Chromebook
To format an SD card on a Chromebook, you can use different methods like the Chrome OS Files app, command line, or a third-party app. Here is the detail of each of these methods.

1. Using built-in Chrome OS Files App
To use the built-in Chrome OS files app, insert the SD card into the slot. Click on the files app. Then right-click on the SD card and select the “format” option. It will start formatting your SD card. Once the process is completed, you should eject it and insert it again to access and use the SD card on your Chromebook.
2. Using Command Line
Open the terminal app and type the following commands.
diskutil list
Identity your SD card name. Type the following command while replacing “DEVICE” with your sd card name and press Enter key.
sudo umount /dev/DEVICE
Now, type the following command replacing “DEVICE” with your SD Card name and press Enter key.
sudo mkfs.vfat -I -F 32 /dev/DEVICE
It will format your SD card. Now, eject your SD card insert it again to store new data.
3. Using Third-Party app
You can also use a third-party app like SD Card formatter to format your SD card properly on your Chromebook. Install the app on your Chromebook.
Now, insert your SD card into the SD card reader. Open the SD card formatter app, and select your SD card from the list. Choose your desired format, like FAT32, and click on the format to start the formatting process.
Why can’t I format my SD card on my Chromebook?
You can’t format your SD card if;
- It is locked
- It is corrupted
- It is not compatible with your Chromebook.
Why is my Chromebook not recognizing my SD card?
Your Chromebook will not recognize your SD card if;
- It is not inserted into the slot properly. To check this, you may try to remove and insert it again.
- The SD Card slot is damaged.
- The SD Card is not formatted properly
How to format an SD Card on a Chromebook? – Conclusion:
In this guide, we have covered three easy ways to format an SD card on a Chromebook. Which one works better for you? Let’s know your comments. We have also discussed common reasons that might cause your Chromebook not to recognize your SD card.