Learn why performing Tuya camera SD card format is necessary and how to do it properly. This helps ensure the SD card is compatible and keeps your camera running smoothly.
The Tuya camera is a smart security device that connects to Wi-Fi and works with the Tuya Smart app. It lets you view live video, adjust settings, and receive alerts from anywhere. Easy to use and compatible with other smart devices, it offers strong security features and a user-friendly app, making it ideal for home monitoring. However, before using it, you may find the camera asks to format the card. Why does the camera say format card?
If your Tuya camera says “format SD card,” it usually means something is wrong with the card. Here are a few possible reasons:
In short, your Tuya camera may ask to format the SD card if the card is full, corrupted, or not compatible. Formatting prepares the card for proper use, but be careful — it will erase all data on the card. To recover data from a formatted SD card, here is a solution.
Card Type: Only MicroSD (TF) cards are supported.
Storage Capacity: Depending on the model, Tuya cameras usually support cards from 8GB to 128GB. Check your camera’s manual to know the exact limit.
Writing Speed: Choose a card with a writing speed of at least 20MB/s. A slower card may cause video recordings to be choppy or unclear.
To make formatting easy and effective, it is strongly to use a professional format tool like AOMEI Partition Assistant. This is a completely free tool for you to easily format the SD card or drive into NTFS, FAT32, exFAT, Ext2 and Ext3.
This powerful tool allows you to overcome limitations by easily formatting a large SD card (up to 2TB) to FAT32. It also helps you avoid errors such as being unable to extend volume to unallocated space or encountering greyed-out options for formatting in Disk Management. Moreover, it even supports format RAW or write-protected but not locked SD cards. You can download this free powerful software to effectively format SD card for Tuya camera.
The Best Windows Disk Partition Manager and PC Optimizer
Step 1. Open AOMEI Partition Assistant, locate the partition on your SD card that requires formatting, right-click it, and select "Format Partition”.
Step 2. In the dialog box, choose the file system compatible with your camera, such as formatting to FAT32 or exFAT. (Here, select exFAT.)
Step 3. Review the pending operations. Once confirmed, click “Apply” > "Proceed” to start formatting.
While Tuya cameras are convenient and feature-rich, users may sometimes run into problems. Below are some of the most common issues and simple steps you can take to fix them on your own.
If your Tuya camera won’t connect, it may be due to weak Wi-Fi signals, wrong network settings, or a minor setup mistake. Here’s how you can troubleshoot:
Step 1. Check Your Wi-Fi Signal
Make sure your camera is within range of your Wi-Fi router. If it’s too far, move it closer or use a Wi-Fi extender. Also, double-check the Wi-Fi password.
Step 2. Use the Correct Network Band
Tuya cameras usually only support 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. If you’re trying to connect to a 5GHz network, switch to 2.4GHz.
Step 3. Reset the Camera
Locate the reset button on the camera, hold it for 10–15 seconds, and then try setting it up again.
Step 4. Try a Mobile Hotspot
Disconnect from your home Wi-Fi and try connecting the camera to a mobile hotspot. If this works, your home router might be causing the issue and may need to be reconfigured.
If your camera frequently goes offline, these steps may help:
Step 1. Check Power Supply
Ensure the power cable is connected securely and the outlet is working properly.
Step 2. Improve Wi-Fi Stability
Place the router closer to the camera or use a Wi-Fi extender for a stronger signal.
Step 3. Update the Firmware
Open the Tuya app, go to the camera settings, and see if a firmware update is available. Install it if there is one.
If your camera is not saving footage, it might be related to SD card issues or storage settings. Try these steps:
Step 1. Check Storage Settings
In the Tuya app, open the camera settings and make sure the recording option is enabled.
Step 2. Inspect the SD Card
Make sure the MicroSD card is properly inserted and formatted. A loose or unsupported card can prevent recording.
Step 3. Enable Cloud Storage
If your camera supports cloud storage and you have a subscription, ensure cloud recording is turned on in the app.
Step 4. Update the Camera Firmware
Go to the app and install any available firmware updates, which may resolve bugs related to recording.
If your camera can’t detect the SD card, follow these steps:
Step 1. Confirm Compatibility
Make sure you are using a MicroSD (TF) card that is compatible with Tuya cameras.
Step 2. Use a Quality Card
Choose a trusted brand, ideally designed for security cameras.
Step 3. Check the Card Specifications
Ensure the card is Class 10 or higher and has a capacity between 8GB and 128GB. For cards between 8GB and 32GB, format them in FAT32. If the card is larger than 32GB, format the SD card to NTFS. You can use AOMEI Partition Assistant to do this.
The Best Windows Disk Partition Manager and PC Optimizer
Step 4. Format the Card in Camera Settings
Use the Tuya app’s settings to format the SD card directly.
Step 5. Reinsert the Card
Remove and reinsert the SD card carefully, then check if the issue is resolved.
Step 6. Contact Support
If none of the above steps work, reach out to Tuya support or the card manufacturer for further help. By following these simple steps, most Tuya camera issues can be solved without professional assistance.
Why do you need to perform Tuya camera card format? If your Tuya camera says "format card," it usually means the SD card is full, corrupted, or incompatible. Formatting the card prepares it for proper use, but it will erase all existing data. To avoid issues, use a compatible MicroSD card with the correct format and speed, and consider using tools like AOMEI Partition Assistant for reliable formatting. If you face connection, recording, or detection problems, follow the simple troubleshooting steps provided. With the right setup and care, your Tuya camera can work smoothly and securely for your home monitoring needs.
