Basic formatting removes the file system and replaces it with a new one.

More thorough formatting also overwrites all of the data on the card randomly.

This option is more secure because it prevents easydata recovery.

An SD card highlighted in Window File Manager.

The quick option is faster, but its less secure.

Click theFile systemdrop down and pick the file system you want.

DeselectQuick Formatbefore you click Start if you want to completely overwrite your SD card and prevent data recovery.

Format highlighted in an SD card contextual menu on Windows.

The reformatting process will begin as soon as you click OK. Dont click until youre ready to format.

Heres how to clear an SD card on a Mac:

OpenDisk Utility.

Click yourSD cardin the External section.

File system options highlighted in the Windows format tool.

Click theFormatdrop down menu.

Move the slider to your desired security level and clickOK.

To prevent old data from being recovered, move the slider at least one notch to the right.

Start highlighted in the Windows format utility.

Rename the SD card if you want to, and then clickErase.

The formatting process will begin immediately after you click Erase.

Why Cant I Clear My SD Card?

OK highlighted in the Windows formatting warning pop-up.

When this mode is active, devices are unable to save any data to the card.

SelectApps>controls>Storage, then selectUnmount SD cardto make your gadget stop attempting to use the card.

From there, scroll down and selectReset>Format SD Card.

Disk Utility highlighted in Spotlight.

An SD card (disk4s1) highlighted in Disk Utility.

Erase highlighted in Disk Utility.

The format drop down highlighted in Disk Utility.

MS-DOS (FAT) and ExFat highlighted in Disk Utility.

Security Options highlighted in Disk Utility.

The security slider and OK highlighted in Disk Utility.

Erase highlighted in Disk Utility.

The lock highlighted on an SD card.