NTFS vs FAT32 Wich is best from a Gamer/Hardware Enthusiast perspective?

joe4324

Senior member
Jun 25, 2001
446
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I'm not paticulary well versed in the nuances of Either File System, I've used Fat32 since Its inception years ago and I used FAT16 befor that. I've had several people tell me that NTFS is a better overall File system, But none of the things I touted as improvements really seemed to benefit me much.

What are the pros of switching from FAT32 to NTFS?

Will I have to Format Every computer on my lan to be able to switch files back and forth from system to system?

Will i have to re download the gigs of game demos and patches I have already downloaded onto my FAT32 drives?
 

Doomguy

Platinum Member
May 28, 2000
2,389
1
81
NTFS. It's superior in almost every aspect. More efficent, more secure, less fragmentation, less chance of file corruption. Speed with NTFS is dependant on your block size and hard drive. Some drives work well with NTFS, some are lously performers with it.

 

Mem

Lifer
Apr 23, 2000
21,476
13
81
I was using FAT32 on my WinXP Pro for gaming and switched over to NTFS,anyway stability was just the same it also appeared to be slightly faster for me in NTFS so my vote is go NTFS for gaming.
 

millsy

Senior member
Jul 26, 2001
495
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You may find games run better in FAT32 and will notice the difference on a lower spec PC.
 

sandorski

No Lifer
Oct 10, 1999
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6,368
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NTFS is likely superior for certain reasons, but I doubt there is any real advantage with either for the gamer.