Data recovery is the process of retrieving deleted, inaccessible, or corrupted data from storage devicesen.wikipedia.org. Today, nearly 67.7% of businesses report significant data loss events, highlighting how common file loss is. Whether files were lost through accidental deletion, a hard drive crash, or a virus, specialized data recovery software can help restore them. These tools work by scanning storage media (hard drives, SSDs, USBs, SD cards, etc.) to find recoverable file fragments and then reconstruct lost files. In many cases, even after formatting or corruption, files are not immediately erased – their space is merely marked “free,” so data recovery utilities can often retrieve them data recovery software.
Choosing the right data recovery tool depends on the device (PC, Mac, mobile), file types (documents, photos, videos), and the cause of loss (deletion, formatting, corruption). In this guide, we explore the 10 best data recovery software for lost files in 2025, covering free file recovery tools, hard drive recovery software, deleted photo recovery apps, and more. We compare key features like file system support, operating system compatibility, and recovery limits, and we include expert tips, usage examples, and FAQs to help you pick the right solution.
How Data Recovery Software Works
When files are deleted or a disk is formatted, the actual data often remains on the drive until it’s overwritten. Data recovery programs scan the disk’s sectors and file system to find traces of lost files. Simple undelete tools may recover recently deleted files from the Recycle Bin, while advanced utilities perform deep or raw scans of formatted or damaged disks. Some apps also include preview features, letting you verify files before restoring. Important factors in these tools include supported file systems (NTFS, exFAT, HFS+, EXT4, etc.), recovery modes (quick scan vs deep scan), and the ability to recover specific file types (photos, videos, documents). Many hard drive recovery software solutions also handle external media like USB sticks and SD cards, making them USB data recovery software and SD card recovery tools as well.
To maximize success, stop using the affected drive immediately to avoid overwriting data. Then run your chosen data recovery software from a different drive. Keep in mind that no software can guarantee 100% recovery, especially if files have been heavily overwritten. For the best results, consider tools that support multiple file types and provide previewing, like Disk Drill or Photo. Additionally, cloud backup and disaster-recovery services (e.g. Acronis Disaster Recovery, N2W Software) automate off-site backups and restorations across cloud infrastructuresn, which can save time for businesses but are beyond the scope of simple file recovery apps data recovery software.
Top 10 Data Recovery Software for Lost Files
Below are our top-rated data recovery tools of 2025. Each supports various devices and file types; many offer free trials or limited free versions. All support recovering data on Windows, and most also run on Mac/Linux. We’ve included disk, USB, and formatted drive recovery capabilities.
1. Disk Drill (Windows & Mac)
Screenshot of Disk Drill data recovery software scanning an external USB drive on Windows.
Disk Drill by CleverFiles is widely praised for its balance of power and ease of use. It supports hundreds of file formats and can recover data from internal drives, external USB sticks, memory cards, and more. Key features include deep scanning with original file names and folder structure recovery, a Recovery Vault for data protection, and the ability to pause/resume scans. The free Windows version recovers up to 500 MB of data, making it a great free file recovery tool for small jobs. Disk Drill’s clean interface and preview feature make it beginner-friendly. Pros include cross-OS support (macOS and Windows), drive health monitoring, and advanced filters. Note that Disk Drill’s paid Pro version ($89 for lifetime on 3 PCs) unlocks unlimited recovery. Overall, Disk Drill is a top all-purpose data recovery software, especially for Windows drives and external disks data recovery software.
Features: Supports NTFS, FAT32, exFAT, HFS+, APFS, EXT; recovers 400+ file types.
Pros: Intuitive UI, deep scan with pause, original filenames, Recovery Vault.
Cons: No network recovery or phone support, Windows-only free limit (500 MB).
2. R-Studio (Windows, Mac, Linux)
R-Studio is a professional-grade data recovery suite geared toward advanced users. It offers extensive file system support (NTFS/ReFS, FAT/exFAT, Ext2/3/4, HFS+/APFS) and can recover data from damaged or deleted partitions. R-Studio’s powerful features include a bootable ISO for crashed PCs, RAID reconstruction, built-in hex editor, and forensic tools. It can handle multiple drives at once and predict recovery chances. While R-Studio can undelete files, its focus is on partition recovery and raw scanning. The interface is technical and less guided, so it’s best for IT pros. The basic version (from ~$50) has filesystem limits, whereas the full version ($79+) adds NTFS, HFS+, APFS, and more. In short, R-Studio is an advanced recovery software app great for complex data loss (e.g. RAID setups, damaged volumes), but it’s overkill for casual users.
Features: Multi-OS support; recovers FAT, NTFS, Ext, HFS+, UFS; ISO bootable media.
Pros: Forensic-level options, hex editor, multi-volume recovery.
Cons: Steep learning curve; outdated UI; trial limits 256 KB data recovery software.
3. PhotoRec (Windows, Mac, Linux)
PhotoRec open-source recovery tool showing found files in a text-based interface.
PhotoRec is a free, open-source file recovery utility included with TestDisk. Despite its name, it recovers all types of files (not just photos) from memory cards, USB sticks, hard drives, and more. It can detect over 480 file extensions across ~300 file families. PhotoRec works on FAT, NTFS, exFAT, ext, HFS+ and more without relying on the file system (it reads raw data). It’s extremely lightweight and cross-platform (Windows/Mac/Linux). The main drawback is its interface: PhotoRec is command-line driven, which can be intimidating for non-technical users. It also doesn’t restore original filenames or folder structure (it recovers files to one folder). However, its no-cost, no-file-limit approach makes it ideal for formatted disk recovery or after severe corruption. As TechRadar notes, this duo (PhotoRec/TestDisk) is a “powerful and flexible data recovery toolkit” for partitions and files. In summary, PhotoRec is one of the best free file recovery tools, especially for memory cards and drives, but be prepared for a manual recovery process.
Features: Free & open-source; recovers from hard drives, SD cards, USB drives; 300+ file families.
Pros: Unlimited recovery, broad format support, non-destructive.
Cons: Text-based UI; no preview or original file names; can be slow to browse results data recovery software.
4. Recuva (Windows)
Recuva file recovery software scanning a formatted SD card on Windows.
Recuva by Piriform (makers of CCleaner) is a popular free Windows recovery tool aimed at beginners. It handles photo, music, document, video, and other file types on hard drives, USB sticks, memory cards, and floppy disks. The interface is straightforward, with a color-coded quality indicator for recoverability and a simple preview feature. Recuva recovered about two-thirds of test files in trials, so it’s best for undeleting common files and quick fixes. Its free version is genuinely free (with Pro upgrade for $24.95) and works on all Windows versions up to Windows 11. Downsides include limited deep-scan capability (missing many rare file types) and an outdated UI. Unlike Disk Drill or EaseUS, Recuva can’t assemble fragmented files or recover as thoroughly. However, for basic hard drive or USB recovery software, Recuva is fast and easy to use. Our tests found it regained intact filenames from emptied Recycle Bin cases, and it offers secure file deletion if you need it.
Features: Fast scan; color-coded recover chances; free full version.
Pros: User-friendly; free; preview; works on old Windows.
Cons: Mediocre deep-scan (only recovers ~76% after format); lacks modern UI or extra features.
5. Data Rescue 6 (Windows & Mac)
Data Rescue 6 by Prosoft is a simple yet powerful recovery tool. Its clean interface (three big buttons) makes it approachable for home users, but its price is high – around $399/year for Pro edition. It supports cloning failing drives, recovering RAID setups, and fast scanning. The software can image a disk to copy a bad drive onto a healthy one before attempting recovery. Users praise its speed and reliability, but criticize the multi-step process and cost. Data Rescue’s demo can scan for free, but to recover more than a few files you need a paid license (Standard is $79/30-day). In practice, Data Rescue is best if you’re willing to pay for a robust Windows/Mac recovery utility. It works well on formatted and damaged drives, and even includes extra utilities like secure deletion. We recommend it mainly for professionals or users with large budgets data recovery software the free demo will show you what can be recovered before purchase.
Features: Simple UI; backups failing drives; supports FAT, NTFS, exFAT, HFS+.
Pros: Fast scanning; RAID/data cloning; clean interface.
Cons: Very expensive subscription model (>$300); multi-step recovery.
6. Wondershare Recoverit (Windows & Mac)
Wondershare Recoverit scanning a formatted hard drive in Windows.
Recoverit from Wondershare is a solid mid-range recovery program with broad device support. It claims compatibility with over 1,000 file formats and all common file systems (NTFS, FAT32, HFS+, APFS). It performs quick three-step recoveries and lets you preview photos and documents. Recoverit can also create bootable USB drives for PCs that won’t start. On the downside, the free version only rescues up to 100 MB of data (enough for a few photos). Recoverit’s interface is sleek and easy, but users report duplicate results and limited file-type previews. It did well on common file recoveries (documents, media) in our testing, though it struggled with obscure formats. Pricing is decent ($47.99/month or $129.99 perpetual). Overall, Wondershare Recoverit is a user-friendly option suitable as a deleted photo recovery app for quick jobs, but heavy users will need the paid version data recovery software.
Features: Supports NTFS/FAT/HFS+/APFS; creates bootable USB; preview before recovery.
Pros: Wide format support; easy wizard interface; photo/video repair tools.
Cons: Only 100 MB free; limited preview and accuracy; slower on complex cases.
7. DiskGenius (Windows)
DiskGenius all-in-one recovery and partition manager interface on Windows.
DiskGenius (formerly PartitionGuru) is an all-in-one recovery and partition management tool for Windows. It recovers lost files, partitions, and even data from virtual disk images (VMware, VirtualBox). It combines data recovery with cloning, partitioning, and bootable USB creation. DiskGenius offers a free edition, but the free version only recovers files smaller than 64 KB, making it mostly useful for disk utilities rather than large recoveries. Key features include a built-in hex editor, VMware recovery, and a 30-day refund guarantee. It handles NTFS, FAT, exFAT, and EXT file systems. The interface is a bit clunky, but recovery itself is straightforward (select drive→scan→preview→recover). In tests, DiskGenius recovered partitions and files effectively, even from RAW or formatted drives, though it can be slow. It’s a powerful tool if you don’t mind the outdated look and free-size limit. Use DiskGenius if you need both partition repair and file recovery in one package, especially for larger computers data recovery software.
Features: Combines partition management and recovery; recovers VMware images; FAT/NTFS/EXT support.
Pros: Versatile (cloning, migration); free version available; advanced tools (hex editor).
Cons: Confusing UI; free version limited by file size (64 KB); no resume support.
8. Stellar Data Recovery (Windows & Mac)
Stellar Data Recovery software scanning a memory card for lost photos and videos.
Stellar Data Recovery (formerly Phoenix) is a popular, long-standing tool known for simplicity. It supports a wide range of devices and file types. Notable features include photo/video repair (fixing corrupted files after recovery) and SMART drive health checks. Stellar’s preview is convenient for checking files before recovery, and it offers a “Deep Scan” for thorough searches. The free edition recovers up to 1 GB of data, then requires a paid upgrade. TechRadar notes Stellar “recovers data across all your devices and drives”, including hard drives, memory cards (SD/MicroSD/CF), USB drives, and optical media. In our tests Stellar easily recovered files from the Recycle Bin, though it recovered ~50% after a full format. Its pricing is on the higher side ($89.99/year for Pro, $199 for Premium), but the interface is clean and offers many scan options. Stellar is a great choice for home users and business users alike who want an easy-to-use data recovery software for Windows or Mac, especially when dealing with photos and videos.
Features: Recovers NTFS, FAT, exFAT, ext, HFS+ from HDDs, SSDs, USB, SD cards.
Pros: Simple wizard; deep/quick scans; photo/video repair; 1 GB free.
Cons: Free limit 1 GB; inconsistent results; slow deep scans data recovery software.
9. TestDisk (Windows, Mac, Linux)
TestDisk recovery tool running in a terminal, repairing a lost partition on Windows.
TestDisk, developed alongside PhotoRec, is an open-source tool focused on partition and file system recovery. It can rebuild partition tables, recover deleted partitions, and repair boot sectors on FAT, NTFS, and ext file systems. It also includes a lesser-known undelete function for files, but it’s hidden in advanced menus and not user-friendly for non-experts. TestDisk’s strength is recovering entire partitions or making a disk bootable again, rather than individual files. Like PhotoRec, it has no GUI – it runs in a command-line or text mode – so it’s not ideal for beginners. Even so, tech writers consider TestDisk “one of the best data recovery software solutions” for major drives. We found it can recover files from emptied Recycle Bins or formatted NTFS drives, but without previews. Use TestDisk when you’ve lost a partition or table and need to restore it; for file-level recovery, PhotoRec or another tool is easier. In summary, TestDisk is a powerful free tool for Windows and multi-OS systems, especially for partition recovery and severe disk issues.
Features: Free, open-source; supports FAT, NTFS, exFAT, ext2/3/4, HFS+; runs from USB stick.
Pros: Can restore lost partitions and repair file systems; very broad OS support.
Cons: Command-line interface; does not recover individual files easily; no preview data recovery software.
10. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (Windows & Mac)
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard scanning a formatted USB flash drive on Windows.
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is one of the most user-friendly recovery apps. It uses a “wizard” interface to guide you through selecting the drive and scanning. EaseUS supports Windows 7–11 and Mac, and handles FAT, NTFS, exFAT, HFS+, ext, and more. The free version recovers up to 2 GB, which is generous for an initial data loss. It’s particularly good at restoring common file types (photos, documents) and is often recommended for deleted photo recovery and formatted drive cases. In our tests, EaseUS successfully retrieved partitions and deleted files (with filenames intact) from formatted drives. The downside is cost: $69.95/month or $149.95 lifetime. Also, the interface can show unrecoverable items and frequent ads in the free version. Still, EaseUS remains a top pick for beginners. As TechRadar notes, EaseUS’s deep-scan technology can “rescue deleted photos, documents, and more from Windows or Mac… even after accidental formatting”. Its step-by-step design makes data recovery accessible to anyone.
Features: Recovers NTFS, FAT, exFAT, ext2/3/4, HFS+ from HDD/SSD/USB/SD; 2GB free data.
Pros: Intuitive interface; wizard-driven; filters results; supports a wide range of drives.
Cons: Expensive license; preview only <100 MB; no advanced tools beyond recovery.
Other Noteworthy Recovery Tools
Beyond the top 10 above, several specialized or free tools are worth mentioning:
- Windows File Recovery (Microsoft) – A free command-line tool by Microsoft. It can recover files permanently deleted from Windows 10/11 by specifying the drive and file signatures. It’s useful for power users but lacks a GUI.
- MiniTool Power Data Recovery – Free Windows tool with simple UI. The free edition has scanning limits but works on file deletion, formatting, and partition loss.
- Wise Data Recovery, Undelete360, Remo Recover, ZAR, DMDE Free, Lazesoft, iBoysoft, AnyRecover, etc. – Various Windows utilities (free or paid) that specialize in undeleting files or disk rescue. For example, DMDE (mentioned in techradar) is a powerful, free-for-personal-use recovery editor that recovered 100% of files in tests.
For deleted photo recovery apps on mobile, consider:
- DiskDigger (Android) – A popular free app to undelete photos and videos from internal memory or SD card. It can even recover data after formatting and upload results to Google Drive or email. (iPhone users may try similar tools like Dr.Fone or EaseUS MobiSaver.)
- Cloud Backup Tools – For corporate or disaster scenarios, cloud-based DRaaS tools like Acronis Disaster Recovery or N2W offer automated backup, replication, and rapid cloud restore of entire systems. While not “file recovery software” in the desktop sense, these solutions protect data in hybrid cloud environments and can recover files or images via the cloud.
When choosing a tool, remember to check device compatibility (Windows vs Mac vs Linux vs mobile), file format needs (photos, office docs, etc.), and budget. Many experts suggest having multiple backups (cloud and local) to avoid reliance on recovery software in the first place. However, when accidents happen, the above programs represent the best options to recover lost files from PCs, drives, and mobile devices.
FAQs
Q: What is the best free data recovery software?
A: For free recovery, PhotoRec and TestDisk (open-source) are extremely powerful on all platforms. For Windows, Recuva is a well-known free tool that’s easy to use. If you need up to 500 MB for free, Disk Drill (Windows) is excellent. Each has strengths: PhotoRec/TestDisk for complex cases, Recuva for ease, Disk Drill for GUI features.
Q: Can data recovery software recover files after formatting?
A: Yes, many can. Tools like EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard or Stellar Data Recovery support formatted disk recovery. In our tests, EaseUS recovered ~76% of files after a quick format. The key is to stop using the drive before scanning. For formatted memory cards or USB sticks, PhotoRec and Stellar both work well.
Q: Is it safe to use data recovery software?
A: Generally, yes—most data recovery apps are read-only and do not overwrite data during scanning. They copy recoverable files to a safe location. However, always download software from the official site to avoid malware. Also, do not install recovery software on the same drive you are trying to recover files from, as that could overwrite lost data.
Q: How much do these tools cost?
A: Many offer free versions with limits (e.g. Disk Drill free = 500MB on Windows, Recuva free unlimited, EaseUS free = 2GB, Stellar free = 1GB). Paid licenses vary: around $50–$150 for perpetual licenses. Enterprise or pro versions (for RAID, large-scale) cost more (hundreds of dollars per year).
Q: What should I do immediately after losing files?
A: Stop using the affected device immediately to avoid overwriting data. If possible, remove the drive or SD card and connect it to another computer (via USB) for recovery. Then use a reliable data recovery software from a separate drive. This maximizes the chance to recover your lost files intact.
Conclusion
Choosing the right data recovery software depends on your situation. For casual Windows users, tools like Disk Drill, Recuva, or EaseUS cover most needs – especially USB drives and formatted disks. PhotoRec/TestDisk and R-Studio are better for power users facing serious drive failures or multiple file systems. Mobile users can rely on apps like DiskDigger for on-device photo recovery. In all cases, start recovery before the lost data is overwritten.
We hope this list helps you recover your lost files safely. Got questions or other tools to recommend? Let us know in the comments. If this article helped you find your files, feel free to share it! 👍📤
