Why does my Samsung SD card show RAW format?

Your Samsung SD card may turn RAW when the file system becomes corrupted, often due to improper ejection, virus infection, or physical damage. In RAW format, Windows cannot recognize FAT32 or NTFS structures.

How do I recover data from a RAW Samsung SD card showing 0 bytes?

You can use iCare Recovery Free, a free recovery tool, to scan RAW or 0 bytes Samsung SD cards and recover lost data before formatting. Always recover your files first, as formatting erases all data.

Can I fix a RAW Samsung SD card without formatting?

Sometimes running CHKDSK or trying a different card reader can help fix a RAW Samsung SD card without formatting. However, if the file system is too corrupted, formatting may be required after recovering your data.

What is the best format for Samsung SD cards after repair?

The best format depends on usage. FAT32 is widely compatible with devices like cameras and phones, while NTFS supports larger files and is better for use with computers.

Recover Data from RAW Samsung SD Card (0 Bytes Issue)

Overview: A Samsung SD card displaying a "RAW" file system and 0 bytes indicates a problem with the card's file system. This usually means the operating system can't recognize the card's format, often due to corruption or other issues. To address this, try using a different card reader, checking for physical damage, recovering data if possible, and then formatting the card.

If your Samsung SD card turned RAW and shows 0 bytes, the most important step is to recover your data first. A RAW SD card means the file system is corrupted, and Windows cannot read or access the files. Luckily, you can restore data before formatting. Also read: RAW sd card recovery

💾 Step 1: Data Recovery with iCare Recovery Free

Use iCare Recovery Free — a trusted free data recovery tool that works with Samsung SD card RAW format problems. It can scan inaccessible or 0 bytes SD cards and recover lost files without requiring the card to be formatted first.

Download and install iCare Recovery Free.
Connect your Samsung SD card to the computer via a card reader.
Select the RAW SD card in iCare Recovery Free and run a deep scan.
Preview and recover files before making any changes to the card.

⭐ Step 2: Identify the Problem

RAW File System: The "RAW" state means Windows doesn’t recognize the SD card’s format (FAT32/NTFS), usually due to corruption.

0 Bytes Capacity: The "0 bytes" error shows the SD card’s storage is unreadable, and space cannot be accessed.

⚠️ Step 3: Identify the Common Causes

File System Corruption: Sudden removal or power loss while writing data. (Can be fixed by formatting or resetting the SD card)
Physical Damage: Cracked casing, bent pins, or faulty card reader. (Cannot be fixed, no software can help)
Virus Infection: Malware altering the file system structure. (Remove virus, format and reset the SD card)
Power Supply Issues: Weak or unstable power during read/write operations. (If it brings logical errors, it can be fixed by formatting; if it damaged the SD card chips or physcal part, then it cannot be fixed by any software)

🛠️ Step 4: Troubleshooting After Data Recovery

Once your files are safely recovered with iCare Recovery Free, you can focus on repairing or reusing the Samsung SD card:

Try a Different Card Reader/Device: Insert the SD card into another card reader, USB port, or device (camera, phone). Sometimes the issue is with the hardware, not the card itself.
Check for Physical Damage: Inspect the card for visible damage (scratches, bent pins, cracks). A physically broken SD card may require professional recovery services.
Check for .nomedia file: Connect your SD card to a computer, open it in File Explorer and check whether it contains a hidden file .nomedia that prevents files from showing up.
Format the SD Card: After saving your data, reformat the card using:
- Windows Disk Management: Right-click the SD card → Format → Choose FAT32 (compatibility) or NTFS (larger files).
- Dedicated SD Formatter: Tools like SD Association Formatter provide safer low-level formatting for SD cards.
Note: Formatting erases all existing data, so ensure recovery first.
Run CHKDSK Command: Open Command Prompt and type: chkdsk X: /f (replace X with your SD card drive letter). This command attempts to fix logical errors and may restore access.
Update or Reinstall Drivers: Outdated or corrupted SD card drivers can cause recognition problems. Update them via Windows Device Manager.
Test on Another System: Insert the SD card into a different computer or OS (Linux, macOS) to check if the problem is OS-specific.
Low-Level Format: If nothing works, a low-level format can rebuild the SD card structure. However, this should be a last resort.

📌 Useful Tips: Preventing Future RAW & 0 Bytes Errors

Always Safely Remove: Eject the Samsung SD card safely to avoid file system corruption.
Use Quality Readers: Cheap or faulty readers can damage your card.
Regular Backups: Copy important files to another drive or cloud storage regularly.
Antivirus Protection: Keep your system clean from malware that can corrupt file systems.
Avoid Power Loss: Don’t remove the card while files are being written.

Video - how to fix memory card raw not formatted error

Recover Data From Samsung SD 0 Bytes

❓ FAQ

Q1: Why did my Samsung SD card turn RAW suddenly?
A: It usually happens due to unsafe removal, corruption, or virus infection.

Q2: Can I fix RAW SD card without losing data?
A: Yes, but you must recover data first using tools like iCare Recovery Free before formatting.

Q3: Is iCare Recovery Free really free?
A: Yes, iCare Recovery Free allows you to scan and recover files from RAW or 0 bytes SD cards without cost.

Q4: Which format should I choose after repair?
A: FAT32 for cameras and phones, NTFS for computer use with larger files.

User Stories - Samsung SD Card Shows RAW and 0 Bytes Fixes

A Samsung SD card displaying a "RAW" file system and 0 bytes indicates a problem with the card's file system. This usually means the operating system can't recognize the card's format, often due to corruption or other issues. To address this, try using a different card reader, checking for physical damage, recovering data if possible, and then formatting the card.

"When I am trying to view photos my Samsung SD card in my digital camera, it says the SD card has RAW file system and 0 byte space. Then, it keeps saying SD card is not formatted if I still try to open the card. Samsung SD card shows the similar error message when I insert it to my computer. Can anyone tell me the solution to fix Samsung SD card RAW file system and get back all lost data when it shows 0 byte?"

raw memory card

"I was unable to write any data to my 4GB Samsung SD card because it changes to RAW file system from previous FAT32. I cannot read any data from this RAW Samsung SD card, either. It says I need to format SD card before I can use it, but will format erase all data? What should I do to open the corrupted SD card without formatting for inaccessible SD card recovery?"

"I have a 16GB Samsung SD card but it turns to 0 byte with some unknown reasons. I am wondering if all data has been lost forever since my SD card shows 0 byte. Meanwhile, I realize that the file system of this card converts to RAW. Is there any Samsung data recovery tool for RAW Samsung SD card data recovery?"

✅ Summary

A Samsung SD card RAW format with 0 bytes means the system cannot read your card. The best solution is to recover files first using iCare Recovery Free, then proceed with troubleshooting and formatting if necessary. By following preventive measures like safe removal, backups, and antivirus protection, you can avoid future SD card problems.

❗ Important Notes

Warning: Always perform data recovery first with iCare Recovery Free before formatting, as formatting erases all files permanently.

If you’re not confident, consult a professional data recovery service to prevent permanent data loss.

Last updated on Aug 22, 2025

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