How to convert a bootable USB drive to a normal drive in Windows 10/11? This post provides 3 methods to help you format bootable USB to normal. Keep reading now!
Bootable USB drives are very useful for installing operating systems like Windows or running live systems. However, once you are done with it or or bootable USB not working, you may wonder how to convert a bootable USB drive to a normal drive again so that you can use it to store files or backup data. You may even accidentally wipe data or convert a USB drive while troubleshooting system problems.
So, how do you convert a bootable USB drive to a normal one? We will cover 3 methods that you can follow to unboot a USB drive in Windows 10/11 and restore it to its full capacity. We will also cover important tips for dealing with data loss that may have occurred during the process and how to recover your files.
This is the simplest method to convert a bootable USB drive to a normal one on Windows is using File Explorer. It wipes all the bootable files and reinstates the USB as a regular storage device. Here’s how you can convert bootable pendrive to normal via File Explorer.
Step 1. Connect the bootable USB drive to your PC and open This PC. Locate the bootable USB flash drive, right-click on it, and select Format.
Step 2. Select the file system you prefer (either NTFS or FAT32) and choose the allocation unit size. If you want to reset everything to the default, you can click on Restore device defaults.
Step 3. Press Start to begin the formatting process. Once the process is complete, your USB drive will be back to its regular storage state.
If you want more control or File Explorer doesn’t work as expected, you can use Disk Management to unboot your USB. Disk Management offers a more in-depth view of your disks and gives you additional options for restoring your USB drive to its original state.Here’s how:
Step 1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window, then type diskmgmt.msc and press Enter.
Step 2. Locate your USB drive in the list of disks. Right-click on the USB drive and choose Format.
Step 3. Select your preferred file system (NTFS or FAT32) and choose Default for the allocation unit size. Press OK to confirm and start the formatting process.
If you're looking for the most advanced and powerful way to convert a bootable USB drive to a normal one, Diskpart CMD is effective and ensures that your USB is fully wiped and restored to its original capacity. Here’s how to format bootable USB using CMD.
Step 1. Press Win + R and type diskpart in the Run window. Then, click OK to open it.
Step 2. Enter the following commands and press Enter after each line.
Converting a bootable USB back to a normal one can sometimes lead to data loss, especially if you format bootable USB to normal drive. If you’ve accidentally lost important files during the process, don’t panic. Data recovery tools like MyRecover can help you recover lost files from USB easily.
👍MyRecover - USB Flash Drive Recovery Software
With MyRecover, you can recover lost files from USB flash drive easily.
Step 1. Launch the MyRecover software > connect the USB drive that you need to recover data from > choose USB/SD Card Recovery > hover the mouse over the drive and click Scan to scan.
Step 2. MyRecover will perform both a Quick Scan and a Deep Scan. Once completed, it displays all recoverable files.
Step 3. Once you've identified the required data, select the files and click "Recover X Files". Select a new location to save the recovered files.
🌟Tips:
1️⃣ Backup Important Files: Before formatting bootable USB drive or using Diskpart, always make sure to back up any important data stored on the drive.
2️⃣ Avoid Quick Formats: While quick formatting is faster, it may not completely remove all data. Opt for a full format if you’re not in a rush.
3️⃣ Use Data Recovery Software: If you accidentally delete files or corrupt your USB, tools like MyRecover can help you recover the lost data without stress.
Convert a bootable USB drive to a normal one drive in Windows 11/10 is simple, but you should choose the right method depending on your needs and system. Whether you use File Explorer, Disk Management, or Diskpart CMD on Windows, you can easily restore your USB to its original state.
If you experience data loss during the conversion, tools like MyRecover can help you retrieve your lost files quickly. Now, you’re ready to use your USB drive as a regular storage device again!
1. Can I convert a bootable USB back to normal without losing data?
Yes, but you should back up your data before converting the USB to avoid any potential loss.
2. What file system should I use for my normal USB drive?
For most regular storage needs, FAT32 or NTFS is ideal, depending on the file size and device compatibility.
3. How long does it take to convert a bootable USB back to normal?
It depends on the method used, but most processes take just a few minutes.
4. Can MyRecover recover files after formatting a USB?
Yes, MyRecover is highly effective at recovering lost files from formatted drives, accidental deletions, and even corrupt files.
5. Will converting a bootable USB to normal make it usable for large files?
Yes, once converted, you can use the USB to store large files, depending on the file system (NTFS is better for large files).