64GB USB Only Showing 57GB | Where the Rest of the Storage Goes?

In this digital era, we are entirely into creating or storing digital content. No matter what are the types of files, we all contain them in digital storage or memory devices. There are various memory devices available in different capacities including USB drives. 

But here’s a catch! A common confusion arises among numerous USB drive users – why is it showing only 57 GB of space when it should be 64 GB according to its label? It becomes noticeable while checking the storage from the properties section.

Don’t worry! We’re here to break down the whole matter so that you can properly understand the reason behind this and clear up your confusion. So, without any further delay, let’s start!

Why is the 64GB USB Showing Only 57GB?

There are some particular reasons why your 64 GB USB drive is displaying only 57 GB of space. For easier understanding, we’re explaining the reasons part by part according to their primary point. So, let’s get into them.

1. Binary Nature

In a real-life application, a kilo is equivalent to 1000. But when it comes to the binary nature or formula, a kilobyte will be equivalent to 1024 bytes. The simplest reason is the binary formula is formed by two digits and when it’s 1024, it’s simply compatible with the formula in 2^10 form. 

Therefore, for kilobyte values, the ratio is 1000/1024; and for gigabyte values, the ratio is (1000/1024)^3, which offers 93% of the actual. And if you apply this to 64 GB, the result becomes almost 59 GB (closer to 57 GB). 

2. Formatting Purpose

To format a USB drive, some space is required for formatting purposes, which is around 7% of the entire storage. Therefore, if you consider your 64 GB drive, you’re about to lose almost 5 GB of space while formatting.

3. Caused by Manufacturer

Most USB drive manufacturers preferred a significant amount of space on their flash drives so that the drive can work as a cache to increase the R/W speed and properly control the use of the memory.

4. Hidden Partition

Modern USB drives come with hidden partitions that are designed for firmware or other relevant purposes. These partitions are not accessible to the user, that’s why the storage consumed by these partitions doesn’t show up in the drive’s capacity.

5. Prolongs Drive’s Lifespan

If a USB drive is designed in a way that the user can use its full capacity, the drive won’t have the space to process the files, perform formatting, install the firmware, etc.  In short, the drive will be impaired in performing its intended function. The lack of those particular spaces will increase stress and reduce the lifespan of the USB drive. Ultimately, it won’t last long.

6. Fake USB Drive

Another best possible reason is your USB drive is actually fake. Fake drives usually advertise having a larger capacity which they really don’t offer. Rather they offer considerably lessen storage compared to the advertised capacity. Therefore, the best way to determine the actual capacity of the USB is by testing it with the H2testw utility program. 

Bonus Points

By now, you may have realized that showing lessened storage is normal in most cases. But still, if you’re concerned about the available capacity then there’s a way you can try to get the most out of your USB drive. You can format the drive to a file system that is appropriate for the size of your drive and the file types that you will be storing on it.

Conclusion

Thus far, we’ve shared all the possible reasons that can show less storage than the suggested one, and in this case, the 64 GB USB drive is showing 57 GB of storage. Generally, it’s normal and there’s nothing to worry about it. You just need to accept the capacity and store files accordingly. But if that still isn’t enough then you can go for a higher-capacity USB drive from a reputable manufacturer.