In addition to the higher storage capacity, the FD series also provided additional features not found on the Commodore 1581. A "SWAP" button on the front panel allowed the drive number to be easily switched with that of another Commodore drive on the serial bus, without the need to enter any commands into the computer. It also provided a "1541 emulation mode", allowing partitions on a 3½" disk to simulate the behavior of a 5¼" Commodore 1541 floppy.
In addition to its increased storage capacity, the FD series offered additional features that enhanced its functionality beyond that of the Commodore 1581. A "SWAP" button on the front panel allowed users to quickly switch drive numbers with another Commodore drive connected via the serial bus, without having to type any commands into the computer. This feature was complemented by a "1541 emulation mode", which enabled partitions on a 3½" disk to simulate the behavior of a 5¼" Commodore 1541 floppy.