Can I Low-Level Format Windows 10 Disk Drives? Yes, Your Guide Is Here

Updated by

Linda 

Written by

Tracy King 

Updated on April 22, 2024

PC users often need to format their storage devices. This might be to free up space, erase data from a drive, or alter the file system. However, they must choose among various file format types and formatting methods.

One such approach is the low-level format on Windows 10. But what exactly is it? How does it function, and should you utilize it? These are typical queries a Windows 10 user might have concerning this operating system. Let's delve into finding the answers.

There are occasions when new or inexperienced users encounter confusion. This occurs when they discover that there are two options for formatting a storage device: low-level and high-level formatting. Although you can learn about the distinction here: low level format vs high level format, we will be focusing on low-level formatting in this discussion.

This article aims to assist you in understanding the concept of low-level formatting. It will delve into its fundamental aspects and advise whether you should or should not perform a low-level format on Windows 10. Furthermore, we will examine two primary methods for undertaking this process. Let's proceed to uncover more details.

What Is Low-Level Formatting? Everything You Need to Know Low-level formatting, also known as physical formatting or sector-level formatting, is a process that organizes the data storage structure on a hard drive, solid-state drive (SSD), or other digital storage devices at a very basic level. It divides the storage space into smaller units called sectors and assigns a unique address to each one, enabling the operating system to read and write information efficiently. Unlike high-level formatting, which focuses on creating file systems and preparing the drive for user data, low-level formatting deals with the hardware aspects of the storage device. It writes the low-level code, sometimes referred to as the "firmware," onto the drive. This firmware controls how the drive communicates with the computer's motherboard and manages tasks like error checking, data transfer, and sector allocation. Low-level formatting is typically done by the manufacturer before the device is shipped, ensuring that it's in optimal condition for use. In some cases, users might need to perform low-level formatting, such as when a drive has bad sectors that need to be reallocated or if there are severe issues with the file system. However, it's a more intricate and time-consuming process compared to high-level formatting, and it can often lead to data loss. Therefore, it should only be done when necessary and as a last resort. In modern storage devices, low-level formatting is often integrated into the initial high-level formatting process, making it less common for users to need to perform it separately. If you encounter problems with your drive, it's usually recommended to try standard troubleshooting methods, like running disk utilities or performing a high-level format, before resorting to low-level formatting.

Before delving into how to perform low-level formatting, let's first grasp its fundamentals. Low-level formatting involves wiping out all data from a hard drive. It is also referred to as LLF, during which new sectors and tracks are created on a storage device.

It can be utilized to create a new hard disk or to erase existing data from the hard disk. Hence, here are some crucial points to comprehend about it:

This includes any data that may have been previously written to the drive, including system files and user files. This process also changes the physical layout of the hard drive, as it creates new sectors and tracks. This is done by writing zeroes to every location on the disk, so no remnants of old data are left. Low-level formatting is often used when a computer has been infected with a virus or other malware that cannot be removed through normal means. It ensures that there's no way for the malware or malicious content to persist, as it erases the entire disk. It can also be employed when you intend to sell your Windows 10 computer or give it away. This ensures that your personal information is not accessible to anyone who might use the computer in the future, safeguarding against data recovery attempts, and so on.

那么，它与高级格式化相比究竟如何呢？以下是一个表格来帮助你理解：

As you can see, one of the primary reasons for using low-level formatting is that it completely and physically erases data from a disk. Hence, it's crucial for individuals who want to eliminate their data before selling their PC or hard drive.

When Should I Use Low-Level Format on Windows 10

As previously stated, low-level formatting on Windows 10 will erase everything beyond the point of recovery. Consequently, its applications are quite rare and specific. It's not something you would typically do whenever you insert a flash drive or external device. Thus, you should utilize a low-level format on Windows 10 when:

• Selling or giving away your hard drive/PC
• Erasing your hard drive to prevent data recovery
• Removing malware or viruses
• Addressing bad sectors or sluggish performance
• Restoring the disk to its original factory state

Here are some of the most common situations when you should opt for a low-level format on your hard drive in Windows 10.

How to Perform a Low-Level Format on Windows 10 Hard Drive Partitions

Before proceeding with the low-level format, it's crucial to ensure that you've backed up your important files. This involves either creating a cloud backup or storing essential files on an external device.

Again, you WILL NOT be able to recover these files after formatting. So, make sure to back up your data first. After that, you can use either of these two methods to format hard disk drives in Windows 10:

• #1. Low-Level Format Windows 10 Disk with tools Partition Master
• #2. Low-Level Format Windows 10 with HDD Low-Level Format Tool

#1. Format Windows 10 Disk with Low-Level Tools - Partition Master

The first method is to use the tool Partition Master.

This exceptional tool has emerged as one of the top storage-related programs in recent times, and it should be your go-to solution for low-level formatting your drive. Here's why:

• This is a comprehensive partition manager with numerous appealing features
• You can convert MBR to GPT and GPT to MBR without data loss
• It is compatible with Windows 10, 11, 8, and 7

Therefore, this is why you should download this tool and low-level format your disk using these steps:

We've prepared two options for you to erase your data. Please select the one that suits your needs.

Option 1. Wipe Partition

Translate the following text into English, focusing only on translation:
• Right-click the partition from which you want to erase data, and select "Wipe."
• In the new window, set the duration for which you want to wipe your partition, then click "OK."
• Click the "Execute 1 Task(s)" button in the bottom right corner, review the changes, and then click "Apply."

Option 2. Wipe Disk

Translate the following text into English:
• Select the HDD/SSD, then right-click and choose "Wipe Disk".
• Set the number of times to overwrite the data (you can set it up to 10 maximum). Click "OK".
• Click "Execute 1 Task(s)" and then click "Apply".

#2. Low-Level Format Windows 10 with HDD Low-Level Format Tool To low-level format your hard drive in Windows 10, you can use a utility called "HDD Low-Level Format Tool." This method is typically used when you want to completely erase the drive, including any existing partitions and data, and return it to its factory state. Please note that this process is irreversible and will result in permanent data loss. Here's how to use HDD Low-Level Format Tool: 1. **Download HDD Low-Level Format Tool**: Visit the official website for HDD Low-Level Format Tool at and download the latest version of the software. 2. **Extract the downloaded file**: After downloading, extract the contents of the ZIP file to a folder on your desktop or any convenient location. 3. **Connect the HDD**: Connect the hard drive you want to format to your computer using an appropriate cable (SATA, USB, etc.). Make sure your computer recognizes the drive. 4. **Launch the tool**: Double-click on the "HDDLowLevelFormatTool.exe" file to start the program. 5. **Select the drive**: In the HDD Low-Level Format Tool interface, select the hard drive you want to format from the drop-down list. Be cautious as selecting the wrong drive may cause data loss on another drive. 6. **Verify the drive details**: Check the "Drive Information" section to ensure you have selected the correct drive. The model number and capacity should match your hard drive. 7. **Start the low-level format**: Click the "Start" button to begin the low-level formatting process. A warning message will appear, reminding you that all data will be erased. Confirm your decision by clicking "OK." 8. **Wait for completion**: The formatting process may take several hours, depending on the size of the hard drive. Do not interrupt the process or shut down your computer. 9. **Completion and verification**: Once the low-level format is complete, the tool will display a message indicating the process is finished. You can now remove the drive and use it as needed. Remember that low-level formatting is a drastic measure and should only be used when necessary, as it completely erases all data and might void the warranty on some drives.

The next utility you can utilize is the HDD Low-Level Format Tool by HDD Guru. This tool might be slightly less reliable since it's somewhat outdated, but it's still readily available for download. After downloading it, proceed with the following steps:

Step 1. Run the executable file of the HDD Low-Level Format Tool.

Step 2. Explore the drives on your PC

Step 3. Select the disk that you want to low-level format.

Step 4. Once done, click Continue >>>>

Step 5. In the following section, click on the Low-Level Format tab

Step 6. In this tab, locate and click on Format this Device

Step 7. Wait for the formatting process to complete.

Step 8. Finished

This might take a few minutes, depending on the storage size of the disk drive you want to use. However, it should not take longer than 20-30 minutes.

?Also Read: Write Zero to Hard Drive

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks, the methods to format your hard drives using the low-level format approach. However, it's crucial to advise against using this method frequently or every week. Constantly performing this type of formatting can result in physical damage to the hard drive.

Thus, it's crucial to approach it cautiously when you require a low-level format. This is why employing a professional tool like AOMEI Partition Assistant for performing the low-level formatting is essential. By doing so, you can prevent any physical harm to the drive and effectively erase your data securely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Low-Level Formatting on Windows 10

This article might have raised some additional questions for you. To address those, here are a few frequently asked questions:

< b >1. Can I perform a low-level format on Windows 10 using the command prompt?

Yes, you can perform a low-level format on Windows 10 using the Command Prompt. However, some users report that it might not be as efficient as using a specialized tool. Therefore, if you want to ensure that your data is completely erased from a drive, it's recommended to use a dedicated tool rather than the Command Prompt.

< b > 2.   Can the Diskpart low-level format a hard drive?

Yes, it can. As stated in the CMD query, you would need to format a drive using Diskpart commands for a low-level format. However, it's not as dependable as using a professional tool.

3. Can a low-level format fix a hard drive?

It depends on the problem. If your hard drive's magnetic disk has sustained physical damage or has deteriorated over time, a low-level format is unlikely to resolve the issue. However, if you're experiencing stuttering performance or bad sectors, a low-level format can potentially fix the hard drive.

4. Is low-level formatting safe?

Yes, it is—especially if it hasn't been done on the hard drive before. However, frequent low-level formatting is known to cause physical damage to hard disk drives.