SD card shows too little memory - this may be the reason

If your SD card shows too little memory, there can be various reasons. We'll show you how to solve the problem.

This is why an SD card shows too little memory

For example, if your SD card holds 16 gigabytes, only a little more than 15.5 gigabytes are displayed under Windows. This is perfectly normal and is related to the calculation of the storage space.
If you format your SD card not with Windows but with a Raspberry Pi, for example, a partition on the SD card will be formatted with a file system that Windows cannot read. There is usually a certain area left that Windows can still access. The remaining storage space can then no longer be displayed under Windows.

First, try formatting the SD card in a different file system. For example, choose FAT or FAT32. You will find instructions on formatting in this practical tip.
If you use an external card reader, it may not be compatible with your version of Windows. This is especially the case with very old devices and relatively new operating systems.
If multiple partitions have been created on the SD card, Windows cannot format all of them. You will need additional software for this. The Paragon Partition Manager and the SD Formatter, for example, prove to be helpful.

In the next practical tip, we will tell you whether you can defragment your SD card.