ExFAT is the file system that is compatible with both Macs and Windows. The macOS High Sierra, however, only utilizes this file system for hybrid and mechanical drives.ĮxFAT: AFPS and Mac OS Extended only work on Macs and can’t be used for other operating systems.

It is also referred to as HFS+ or HFS Plus and is the default file system that is used by older Mac OS versions for any storage device. Mac OS Extended: Mac OS Extended is the oldest file system that is compatible with all versions of Mac OS dating back to 1998. While this file system is primarily designed and optimized for flash drives and SSDs (Solid State Drives), it can be used for hybrid or mechanical drive without encountering much trouble. You can pick any of these file systems for your hard drive depending on its type.ĪPFS: APFS is the short form of Apple File System which has been recently released as a new feature for the latest operating system developed by Apple, macOS High Sierra. While some file systems are ideal for one type of hard drive, others are best suited for another hard drive type.

Each file system available has its own strengths and benefits to offer you. While in earlier days the choice of the file system was limited, there are multiple options available to you nowadays. Each operating system has a different set of file systems that it supports. A file system is required to determine the procedure of retrieval and storage of data on the storage media. Whenever you are trying to partition a hard drive, you are presented with the decision of choosing its file system.

Will mac read exfat