How to Make the Nintendo 3DS System Read an SD Card Larger Than 32GB

Updated by

Tracy King 

Written by

Linda 

Updated on April 22, 2024

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HELP! My 3DS Isn't Reading the SD Card

"My 32GB micro SD card is filling up, so I replaced it with a 64GB micro SD card purchased during Cyber Monday last November when it was on sale. Initially, I transferred some files from the old 32GB card to my desktop and then moved them onto the 64GB card, assuming the transfer was successful. However, to my astonishment, upon inserting the 64GB card back into the console, a message appeared stating that an SD card couldn't be detected! None of the software, files, or data on the SD card were visible. What's the issue? The card functions perfectly in my camera... How can I make the Nintendo 3DS system recognize an SD card larger than 32GB in my situation?"

Nintendo Switch not reading SD card? There are some factors that can lead to memory card unreadable, inaccessible, or unrecognizable issues in the 3DS console system. For instance, your SD card might be locked, or there could be a poor connection with the 3DS. Typically, these issues can be easily fixed by sliding the lock switch to the unlocked position or by turning off the 3DS, removing the card, and turning the device back on.

But if the error occurs right after you get a new memory card that's over 32GB, one of the most common issues you'll encounter is the Nintendo 2DS, 3DS, 3DS XL, New 3DS, and New 3DS XL not detecting SD card due to compatibility problems. As of now, the Nintendo system supports SD memory cards up to 2GB, SDHC memory cards up to 32GB; it doesn't support the rest of SDXC and fast-transfer UHS-type memory cards.

How to Make 64GB or Higher Capacity Memory Cards Readable on 3DS

Many tech-savvy people have tested a 64GB memory card on the 3DS, and it works perfectly fine. How did they achieve this? Don't worry; you don't need to understand all the technical details. You can use a tool to assist you. Since the Nintendo 3DS console requires an SD card and micro SD card with a FAT32 file system, and your 64GB SDXC card is typically formatted in exFAT by default, you can make it compatible by converting exFAT to FAT32 using free partition software.

Please note that formatting or reformatting will delete everything on the card, so make sure you have backed up all important items. Next, try to freely download a tool called Partition Master and format your SD card with a capacity over 32GB to the FAT32 file system so that it can function properly on the 3DS.

Step 1. Locate your SD card and right-click on the partition you wish to format, then select "Format."

Step 2. Assign a new partition label, file system (NTFS/FAT32/EXT2/EXT3/EXT4/exFAT), and cluster size to the selected partition, then click "OK".

Step 3. Click "Yes" on the pop-up window to proceed.

Step 4. Click the "Execute 1 Task(s)" button on the toolbar, then click "Apply" to start formatting your SD card.

Now, try reattaching the oversized SD card to your 3DS. Hopefully, you won't encounter the error messages "SD card not detected" or "unable to read SD card." Good luck.

If you find this guide helpful in making your Nintendo 3DS system read the SD card, share it to assist others in need!