File too big to fit on USB? Fix the error of not being able to copy large files to a USB

Updated by

Tracy King 

Updated on April 22, 2024

Have you ever tried to transfer large files to a USB device, only to encounter the issue of "file too large to copy to USB" or "can't copy large file to USB"? This is usually due to various issues pertaining to large files. Many users get frustrated when they attempt to "copy large file to USB" and encounter problems. The root cause often lies in the file system format of the target USB device, particularly the limitations of the FAT32 format, which prohibits the transfer of files larger than 4 GB.

In this guide, we will unravel the mystery behind this common issue and provide you with practical solutions. So, join us as we explore how to overcome the challenge of copying large files to a USB drive, along with alternative methods. Let's embark on this journey together to conquer file transfer hurdles and learn how to seamlessly move large files onto a USB drive or between computers.

How to fix the "Cannot copy large files to USB device" error?

It can be frustrating when you're unable to copy large files to a USB device, even with ample disk space. But fear not, we'll swiftly navigate through various solutions to address this issue while ensuring your personal data and all crucial files remain secure throughout the process of implementing safe data backup strategies. Try the recommended methods below, tailored to your specific needs.

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When attempting to send large files and dealing with the "can't copy large file to USB" error, consider taking the following precautions for a seamless and hassle-free experience.

1. Run an antivirus scan: Perform a comprehensive antivirus scan to ensure a safe and clean environment for your data.
2. Create a backup: Back up your USB data. This is particularly important before attempting to modify the file system or compress files.
3. Avoid interruptions: Once the file transfer begins, try not to interrupt the process. Sudden disruptions can lead to data corruption or incomplete transfers.
4. Close unnecessary programs: Close any unnecessary programs running in the background to ensure system resources are focused on the transfer task.
5. Check available storage space: Make sure your USB drive has sufficient free space to accommodate the large file. Running out of space during the transfer could result in errors.

Method 1: Change the USB's File System Method 2: Format the USB

To overcome the limitations and hurdles of FAT32 and ensure a seamless large file migration process, you might consider switching your USB file system format to NTFS or exFAT. This strategic move will enable efficient data transfer without compromising data integrity.

For a smooth and effortless transition between USB file systems, explore the features of the Partition Master Professional tool, particularly its "Convert to NTFS" function. This utility allows users to change the USB format without compromising valuable data. By utilizing Partition Master's "Convert to NTFS" feature, you can switch your USB file system to NTFS or exFAT, enabling a seamless and efficient process for transferring large files.

Follow the steps:

Step 1: Install and run Partition Master on your computer.

(2) Right-click on a FAT32 partition in the Disk Manager and select “Advanced” from the menu, then choose “Convert NTFS to FAT.”

Step 3: Click "Continue" in the dialog box to proceed.

Click “Apply” to begin the conversion process. Wait for it to finish.

If you find this seamless solution useful, do share it online to help more friends transfer large files to their USB drives without losing any data:

Method 2: Compress Large Files Before Moving Them

Compressing files reduces their size, which can also solve the problem of "can't move large file to USB." After compressing a large file, you can easily transfer it to your USB drive.

For Windows users, there are several compression tools to choose from. We recommend 7-Zip, which has a user-friendly interface, is free, and open source.

Follow the steps:

Step 1: Download and install 7-Zip.

Step 2: Right-click the large file you want to compress.

Step 3: Select “7-Zip” > “Add to archive.”

Step 4: Choose an “Archive format,” like ZIP or 7z, and adjust the compression level as needed.

Step 5: Click OK to start the compression process.

Step 6: Once it's compressed, copy the file to your USB drive.

TIP: On Windows, there is a built-in file compression tool. Right-click on a folder, and a drop-down menu will appear. Select "Send to", then choose "Compressed (zipped) folder."

Method 3: Use a Large File Transfer Tool Method 3: Use a Large File Transfer Utility

Using reliable tools like Todo PCTrans is also a viable option for large file transfer. To ensure the best experience for transferring large files, users need to make sure their USB format is exFAT or NTFS, especially if it's currently FAT32. Once the file system is compatible, a reliable data transfer software can be utilized for efficient transmission. Consider giving Todo PCTrans a try, a powerful tool with a unique feature for large file management that effectively moves and deletes large files, facilitating the efficient transfer of big files to an external USB drive.

With Todo PCTrans, you can also clone your entire system or hard drive, allowing you to upgrade your disk without having to reinstall Windows. It offers several other useful features as well. Let's give it a try by following these steps:

Step 1: Run Todo PCTrans on your computer. Select “Large Files Cleaner” and click “Start” to proceed.

Step 2. Select the disk you want to scan and click “Scan”.

Step 3: After the scan, files larger than 20 MB will be listed. Select the ones you need and choose the destination disk to move them to. (You can click the triangle icon to choose the destination or click "Browse" to select where you need)

Conclusions

Encountering the error "File too large to fit on USB drive" can be frustrating and inconvenient, owing to file size limitations. However, it's essential to remain calm! This guide offers several practical solutions to overcome this restriction and successfully transfer those large files.

Converting to NTFS with a tool like Partition Master is an effective solution for changing the USB file system format or compressing large files.

Using a user-friendly and reliable file transfer tool, such as Todo PCTrans, is also a seamless and efficient way to move large files with no technical complexity involved, even for beginners.

If you liked the 3 methods provided above to fix oversized files for USB, share online to help more people learn this skill and share their large files across different devices like experts via USB.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Issue of Unable to Move Large Files to USB

If you have more questions or would like to learn more about this topic, you can find appropriate answers in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section below.

1. Why can't I save a 5 GB file to my USB?

USB drives often have file system limitations. If your USB is formatted as FAT32, for example, it won't be able to store individual files larger than 4GB. To overcome this limitation, change the file system to exFAT or NTFS.

2. How can I copy a large file to a USB device without formatting it?

Use a file compression utility to reduce the file's size to within the limits of your current file system.

How do I fix a file that's too large to transfer?

To resolve the issue of transferring large files that exceed the capacity, you can approach it differently depending on the situation. You can format your USB device to NTFS or exFAT to handle larger files, compress the files, or utilize tools like Todo PCTrans for swift transfer.