lsblk Command in Linux: List Block Devices

Quick take: The lsblk command lists block devices — disks and their partitions — in a tree. Plain lsblk shows sizes and mount points; lsblk -f adds filesystem types, labels, and UUIDs, which you need before mounting.

Introduction

The lsblk command lists the system's block devices — hard drives, SSDs, USB sticks, and their partitions — in an easy-to-read tree. It is the first command to run when adding storage, identifying a USB device, or finding the UUID needed for /etc/fstab.

This guide covers reading the device tree, showing filesystem details, and using lsblk to prepare disks for mounting.

Syntax

The basic syntax of the lsblk command is:

lsblk [OPTIONS] [DEVICE]

Common Options and Parameters

The most useful options and parameters for the lsblk command:

Practical Examples

Real lsblk commands you can run today:

# List all block devices
lsblk
# Show filesystems, labels, and UUIDs
lsblk -f
# Show full device paths
lsblk -p
# Pick specific columns
lsblk -o NAME,SIZE,FSTYPE,MOUNTPOINT
# Inspect one disk
lsblk /dev/sda
# List whole disks only
lsblk -d

Tips and Best Practices

• lsblk -f is the command to run before mounting — it shows the filesystem type and UUID you need.
• Use lsblk to confirm you have the right device before formatting or partitioning, so you do not wipe the wrong disk.
• The TYPE column distinguishes disk, part (partition), lvm, and rom, making the layout clear at a glance.

Final Thoughts

lsblk gives the clearest picture of a system's storage — disks, partitions, sizes, filesystems, and mount points in one tree. Reach for lsblk -f whenever you need a UUID or filesystem type before mounting, and use it to confirm device names before any destructive operation. It pairs naturally with mount, df, and fdisk.