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In this article, I will discuss the best software to recover deleted files, helping you navigate the overwhelming array of options available. Whether you’ve accidentally deleted important documents, photos, or videos
Choosing the right recovery tool is crucial for restoring your valuable data. I will highlight key features, usability, and effectiveness of top software solutions to aid your decision-making process.
Key Points & Best Software Recover Deleted Files List
Software | Key Features | Platform | File Types Supported | User Friendliness | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Recuva | Simple interface, secure overwrite, deep scan | Windows | All types | Very easy | Basic recovery needs |
Wise Data Recovery | Portable version, fast scanning, preview files | Windows | Common formats | Easy | Quick recovery |
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard | Advanced recovery options, partition recovery | Windows, Mac | All types | User-friendly | Comprehensive recovery |
Disk Drill | Recovery vault, data protection, file preview | Windows, Mac | All types | User-friendly | Advanced users |
Windows File Recovery | Command-line tool, supports NTFS, FAT, exFAT | Windows | NTFS, FAT, exFAT | Moderate | Advanced users |
Puran File Recovery | Deep scan, portable version, no installation needed | Windows | All types | Moderate | Versatile recovery |
Glarysoft File Recovery Free | Simple interface, fast scans, no installation | Windows | All types | Easy | Quick recovery |
iCare Data Recovery Free | Deep scan, lost partition recovery, preview files | Windows | All types | Easy | Partition recovery |
iBoysoft Data Recovery Free | Supports various storage devices, deep scan | Windows, Mac | All types | User-friendly | Comprehensive recovery |
MiniTool Power Data Recovery | Disk recovery, lost partition recovery, file preview | Windows | All types | User-friendly | Comprehensive recovery |
iBeesoft Data Recovery Free | Simple interface, supports various formats | Windows, Mac | All types | User-friendly | Basic recovery |
FreeUndelete | Simple recovery, quick scans, restores deleted files | Windows | NTFS, FAT | Easy | Quick recovery |
CD Recovery Toolbox | Specializes in CD/DVD recovery | Windows | CD/DVD formats | Easy | CD/DVD recovery |
ADRC Data Recovery Tools | Multiple recovery tools, file preview, user-friendly | Windows | All types | Moderate | Versatile recovery |
Orion File Recovery Software | Simple interface, fast recovery, deep scan | Windows | All types | Easy | Basic recovery |
Stellar Data Recovery Free Edition | Powerful scanning, supports various devices | Windows, Mac | All types | User-friendly | Comprehensive recovery |
BPlan Data Recovery | File preview, deep scan | Windows | All types | Moderate | Versatile recovery |
SoftPerfect File Recovery | Portable version, simple interface | Windows | FAT, NTFS | Very easy | Basic recovery needs |
PhotoRec | Open-source, works with many formats, command-line based | Windows, Mac, Linux | Various formats | Moderate | Advanced users |
UndeleteMyFiles Pro | Quick recovery, file preview, file filtering | Windows | All types | Easy | Basic recovery |
20 Best Software recover Deleted Files
1.Recuva
Recuva is fierce and easy-to-use file recovery program aimed at retrieving deleted items from hard drives, memory cards or external drives.
With its fast and deep scan capabilities, it is able to restore lost documents, photographs and images, and other files as well. The secure wipe option permanently deletes documents while the portable version accomodates retrieval without needing to be installed thus making it convenient for the users.
Pros And Cons Recuva
Pros:
- Easy to utilize even by inexperienced users.
- Two options (quick scan and deep scan) available for convenience and recovery respectively.
- No installation required as there is a portable version for recovery.
- Ensures that highly confidential files are forever erased with the secure shredder function.
- Able to recover data in a variety of file types.
Cons:
- Some functions missing in the free version are available in the pro version.
- Files that have been overwritten or are highly fragmented may be impossible to recover with surety.
- Many advanced recovery tools that allow for faster recovery are present in other applications but lacking in this one.
- Preview features are lacking for the free version and there is no alternative providing the paid version.
- Software only for Windows users and thus there are restrictions for Mac users.
2.Wise Data Recovery
Wise Data Recovery is an easy yet powerful tool to recover deleted files from hard drives or USB drives. It has quick and deep scanning modes to search for missing data on other media. Its desktop version is also portable so the users can restore files without needing to install the application.
The entire process which involves the recovery of documents, photographs, and other items is remarkably simple, thanks to the user-friendly interface.
Pros And Cons Wise Data Recovery
Pros:
- The design of the application is friendly to all users.
- In case of an accidental file deletion, the quick scan makes it possible to retrieve it back immediately.
- There is no need to install this recovery tool thanks to the portable version.
- Can retrieve files in various formats.
- Enables the user to save a recovery report with the intention of using it in the future.
Cons:
- The free version does not have as much as the pro version does.
- The amount of time required for a deep scan on large drives can range from several hours to days.
- It lacks any sophisticated recovery solution wie some other software.
- Recovery of files that are highly fragmented may be less than satisfactory.
- Mac Based clients have limited options since the application is windows based only.
3.EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
The EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is an intuitive and the most efficient software that helps in recovering deleted files from hard drives, SSDs, memory cards, and others.
The package also includes improved scanning methods for fast and deep data recovery, making it possible to retrieve erased documents, pictures, and videos. Its trial version which allows users to recover a maximum of 2GB makes it suitable for beginners and expert users as well.
Pros And Cons EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
Pros:
- This application has a very intuitive and easy to use interface suitable for average consumers and professionals alike.
- Unlike simple recovery, this tool offers a high end deep scan for advanced recovery.
- File retrieval can be carried out from multiple storage media such as SSD, external hard drives, etc.
- Files have a preview option before restoration, this way users know exactly what they are recovering.
- Offers free recovery mode which allows trial recovery of up to 2GB.
Cons:
- It would be reasonable to say that the price of the full version is quite high in comparison to other similar programs.
- The volume of data that can be restored using the free version is very low, which may not be enough in case of volume losses.
- There can be some lags while performing tasks at times especially on a scene with a lot of fragments.
- Some of the advanced features can be found only in the paid one.
- In Windows and Mac applications, there may be some differences in functional characteristics and performance.
4.Disk Drill
Disk Drill is vector graphics software that provides efficient recovery of deleted files and lost partitions from the hard disk, USB flash drive, and all other mass storage electronic devices.
The software has user-friendly functionalities which allow the user to perform either a quick or a detailed search restore option for recovering a lost document, photograph, or video. The application also has built-in data protection mechanisms and a recovery vault as such it is optimal for data recovery services.
Pros And Cons Disk Drill
Pros:
- It is easy to use, especially for those that may not be very tech savvy.
- Provides fast as well as deep scan options for optimal recovery of lost data.
- Comes with a basic recovery vault so that the files cannot be lost again.
- Allows recovery of different types of files and many storage media devices.
- Can be used on both Windows and Mac, hence is very versatile.
Cons:
- In the free version, the recovery is capped at 500MB which is not enough in most cases.
- The deep scan option can be long due to the size of the drives.
- It is expensive for some users, especially the costing for the Pro version.
- Other than few, most of the options are in the premium version.
- However, the results of the recovery depend on the storage device.
5.Windows File Recovery
Windows File Recovery is a powerful command line based utility which can help you restore deleted files on storage devices formatted as NTFS, FAT, and exFAT file systems.
It allows for different operational modes, such as Quick and Extensive scans, to search and retrieve lost documents, pictures, and videos. As it is suited for advanced users, it allows for the retrieval of lost data in Windows easily and reliably.
Pros And Cons Windows File Recovery
Pros:
- A completely free tool offered by Microsoft which is available for all Windows users.
- Can recover data from NTFS, FAT, and exFAT file systems.
- Provides additional recovery options including Quick and Extensive scans.
- Can recover files even from an injury or a corrupted drive.
- Compact application which doesn’t require installation.
Cons:
- The command line interface might be fairly complex for a non-technical user.
- Quite inconvenient due to the absence of the graphical user interface.
- Not many supported files thanks to the other recovery software.
- A technical wizard in the individual script interface is quite helpful that can add more steps to the procedure.
- Users can’t view recovered files before they restore them.
6.Puran File Recovery
Puran File Recovery is a multi-functional data recovery tool which is simple to use and helps in recovering deleted files from a hard disk, memory cards and USB drives.
The deep-scan option helps recover files that other software may be unable to recover, and the portability option enables recovery without installation. Because of its simple interface, even novices can quickly restore documents, photos or videos by using Puran File Recovery software.
Pros And Cons Puran File Recovery
Pros:
- It is cost effective since one need not pay anything as there are no hidden costs.
- There is a deep scan option which helps to recover deleted or lost files from most areas.
- There is a portable version available to do a recovery without having to perform the installation and setup.
- They have a simple and user-friendly interface to make the recovery process easier.
- It has multiple file systems to expand recovery options.
Cons:
- It is cost effective since one need not pay anything as there are no hidden costs.
- There is a deep scan option which helps to recover deleted or lost files from most areas.
- There is a portable version available to do a recovery without having to perform the installation and setup.
- They have a simple and user-friendly interface to make the recovery process easier.
- It has multiple file systems to expand recovery options.
7.Glarysoft File Recovery Free
Glarysoft File Recovery Free software is professional yet very simple to use software that allows the user to recover files that may have been deleted on hard drives, USB drives and other devices or media.
It has easy to use quick and deep scanning methods that help in finding lost documents, pictures or video. Its simple interface means that most non-complex computerized recovery procedures are employed in retrieving lost information which makes the application suitable for those looking for a simple valid solution to their needs.
Pros And Cons Glarysoft File Recovery Free
Pros:
- The basic graphical user interface is self-explanatory which the laymen can also operate.
- File types of numerous formats and extensions are able to be restored.
- A quick scan option is available in order to quickly locate deleted items.
- It possesses the capacity for prolonged examination of items.
- Costs nothing as it is completely free to utilize.
Cons:
- Even moderately advanced file systems have difficulties with support.
- It could be extremely sluggish in deep scans.
- All of the files may not be recovered most efficiently.
- Basic tools only as used in many file recovery applications.
- Free users do not have access to any technical assistance. ’s adventures and fulfills the appetites.
8.iCare Data Recovery Free
Another app, iCare Data Recovery Free, can be used for recovering deleted files from a la computer hard drive, USB, or memory card.
The program is assured to be easy to operate as it has a beginner’s as well as advanced interface with quick scan and deep scan’ functionalities for locating and recovering lost documents, pictures, and films.
Besides, the program allows for partition recovery and comes with a preview which gives it an edge over other recovery software since it’s easy to use and quite efficient.
Pros And Cons iCare Data Recovery Free
Pros:
- Very well designed simple interface to suit the needs of all users.
- Works on capturing and retrieving files of different formats on a wide range of devices.
- Deep and quick scan methods for recovering files are available.
- Provides an opportunity to see the files to be restored.
- Users who use the free version can recover without paying quite a significant amount of recovery.
Cons:
- Free version has a low recovery potential.
- Scanning request for large drives take time.
- Has difficulty recovering files which have been overwritten to a great extent.
- Some features are advanced and can only be accessed by subscription.
- Free users have limited access to customer service.
9.iBoysoft Data Recovery Free
IBoysoft Data Recovery Free contains all the necessary tools for effective and uncomplicated deleted file recovery from different kinds of storage: hard disks, USB flash drives, etc.
It has an efficient search option that swiftly retrieves lost files such as documents, images, and videos. The software allows the retrieval of different file types and has a preview function as well, making it an optimal choice for users in need of fast and effective data recovery services.
Pros And Cons iBoysoft Data Recovery Free
Pros:
- Designed with an easy to use interface.
- Enables retrieval of loss from different file systems like NTFS and FAT.
- Allows the users to see the files to be recovered before actually doing so.
- It can recover lost data even in cases of formatted and corrupted drives.
- Using the free version it is possible to get even limited amount of data.
Cons:
- File size limitation on the free version for recovery.
- Usually, deep scans last for quite a long time.
- Paying for the subscription is necessary for many of the advanced features.
- System specification ‘s factors have an impact on the performance.
- A number of customer support alternatives are few for the free users.
10.MiniTool Power Data Recovery
MiniTool Power Data Recovery is an advanced application that can be used for recovering lost files from disks, SSDs, flash drives, etc. It contains several retrieval modes, including Undelete Recovery and Damaged Partition Recovery, to recover erased documents, photographs, and even videos.
The simple design and swift scan features allow people searching for a dependable recovery software to settle on this one with ease.
Pros And Cons MiniTool Power Data Recovery
Pros:
- A clear interface that makes the retrieval process easy.
- Provides solutions for a number of cases of lost information.
- Enables retrieval of previews of files before actual restoration takes place.
- Collects information from different media, including SSD and USB drives.
- This product has a decent recovery capacity and a cost-free version.
Cons:
- The amount of information which can be recovered is restricted in the basic version.
- Deep scans take forever, especially with large capacity drives.
- Advanced features are present in the app only in the paid version.
- Free subscribers do not receive a comprehensive customer support.
- Might have a problem with files that are too badly damaged.
11.iBeesoft Data Recovery Free
Ibeesoft Data Recovery software is a sure and practical solution for data loss or file deletion from different internal or external storage. The program does not require the user to have considerable technical experience thanks to its simple interface.
It’s also able to conduct a fast as well as an in-depth search to quickly retrieve missing data files, images, and video clips. The software can also search various file format types and has a preview feature that makes it helpful for every individual looking for a secure way of recovering their important data.
Pros And Cons iBeesoft Data Recovery Free
Pros:
- The interface is user-friendly thus there is no complexity during navigation.
- Enables recovery from several file systems, FAT and NTFS being among them.
- Quick scan as well as deep scan modes available for quick data retrieval.
- Lets users open files before making the recovery decision.
- The freeware offers some sort of useful data recovery options despite the limits.
Cons:
- There is a restriction on the size of the data estimated to be recovered with this application version.
- The expected performance depends on the type and level of data loss.
- Most advanced features are locked until the user pays for the application.
- Scanning can be tedious especially when dealing with large volumes.
- For free users, the customer care options are sparse.
12.FreeUndelete
FreeUndelete is a user-friendly data recovery solution that specializes in retrieving files deleted from the NTFS and FAT file systems.
With a friendly user interface, it lets users efficiently retrieve missing documents, images, and even videos in no time. Such speedy recovery processes offered by the software makes it popular among users looking for a quick and easy to use data recovery solution.
Pros And Cons FreeUndelete
Pros:
- The software is light and consumes little system resources.
- Simple navigation accessible for all users.
- Able to recover from different types of devices.
- Fast scanning enables retrieval of files within moments.
- Free with no hidden fees or restrictions.
Cons:
- Short of advanced features that most premium recovery software have.
- Files that are deleted permanently may not be recovered.
- The software does not provide preview of the files that can be recovered.
- Certain file systems have compatibility constraints to this software.
- There is no phone customer support; customer service is via online help only.
13.CD Recovery Toolbox
CD Recovery Toolbox is an easy to use tool that aims at recovering or retrieving files that have been scratched or lost from CDs and DVDs. It recovers important data like documents, photos and videos from the scratched optical discs by quickly scanning them in a user friendly manner.
Thanks to the efficient recovery algorithms embedded in the software, the chances of getting the files back are high which makes this software a great option for users who seek for effective recovery of files from optical discs.
Pros And Cons CD Recovery Toolbox
Pros:
- Data recovery from scratched/defaced CDs and DVDs is cardinal.
- The recovery process is made less complicated with the software’s user interface.
- It successfully retrieves data from different disc formats.
- There is a recovery for a file preview.
- The program is entirely free with no needs to register.
Cons:
- There is no option to work with other types of storage apart from optical media.
- Rate of success in recovering discs may differ and have relation to ground disc damage.
- It does not come with sophisticated elements that are found in other data recovery systems.
- Larger disc scanning and restoration can take a while.
- There are limited options available in terms of customer support.
14.ADRC Data Recovery Tools
ADRC Data Recovery Tools is a full-featured toolset designed for the recovery of files which were mistakenly deleted from storage devices such as hard drives or flash drives. This software enables file, disk or image recoveries.
The solution is easy to operate, goes through an intuitive and convenient interface and performs effective scanning to restore lost documents, photographs and videos with maximum efficiency and the least amount of trouble.
Pros And Cons ADRC Data Recovery Tools
Pros:
- ‘One-click’ program that does not require installation – useful for fast retrieval.
- Compatible with numerous file systems and devices.
- Details several alternative recovery techniques depending on the cause of data loss.
- Provides simple, user-friendly menus and straight forward operations for all clients.
- A free version is available with basic recovery options.
Cons:
- Restrictions exist on the volume of data that is recoverable – stated in the free version.
- Less sophisticated in features than recovery software which is profession orientated.
- Performing scans tends to take time- especially in the case of scanning large sized drives.
- Fewer resources for guides and patient customer support.
- Will not necessarily recover files with a high degree of corruption.
15.Orion File Recovery Software
Orion File Recovery Software is very effective when it comes to recovering files that have been unintended deleted from hard drives and USB drives amongst other storage devices.
The simple and easy user interface comes in handy when there is a need to execute a quick or deep scan for lost documents, photos or videos.
Orion allows users to perform data recovery in a methodical and efficient manner with ease which comes in handy for users looking for a simple solution for restoring their important information.
Pros And Cons Orion File Recovery Software
Pros:
- Use of solitaire interface which make the job of recovering files easy.
- Other than NTFS, recovery of FAT file systems is also supported.
- Provides thorough scanning mode for full data recovery.
- Shows files that can be restored prior to actual recovery.
- Allows users with Options of Free version with reasonable recovery limits.
Cons:
- The free version has a very small limit of recovery size which may not enough for larger requirements.
- Certain features are provided only in the paid version.
- Time for scanning is a bit more when larger storage device is being used.
- Efficiency may depend on the level of loss of data.
- Customer service for free users have very few choices.
16.Stellar Data Recovery Free Edition
Stellar Data Recovery Free Edition is a simple yet efficient program that can restore erased files from various stores such as hard drives and memory cards. Its advanced scanning options target and retrieve lost documents, photographs, videos, etc.
The interface is self-explanatory in a way that makes the recovering process easier. The added option of previewing files allows Stellar Data Recovery to be reliable in circumstances when dependable data restoration is needed.
Pros And Cons Stellar Data Recovery Free Edition
Pros:
- It is developed with a graphical user interface and is not complicated to use
- Offers the option of restoring from multiple hard drives, USBs, and other forms of storage.
- It offers recovery of files after the file has been scanned and selected.
- There are numerous types that can be recovered.
- There is a free version that allows recovery of a large amount of data.
Cons:
- The amount that can be restored in the free version is less than that advertised in the paid editions.
- Seek Partial files, Bex file, and Smart scan features can only be found in Pro editions.
- When scanning larger hard drives, it may take a considerable amount of time to get the job done.
- The state of the missing files can impact the results one gets.
- Free tools provide only basic customer support which may not be satisfactory to customers.
17.BPlan Data Recovery
BPlan Data Recovery is a helpful software program aimed at recovering lost files and deleted files from hard drives, USB drives and memory cards.
It also provides options for quick search and deep search making it easier for users to find their lost documents, pictures and videos. Its use is however very easy as it comes with many helpful features.
Users will also find that the software allows to load many types of files as well as includes a preview option so there are no uncertainties about recovering such or such file. The program proves very useful for those who have information loss because data recovery can be pretty successful.
Pros And Cons BPlan Data Recovery
Pros:
- It has a simple design and navigation.
- Different types of files and storage devices are supported.
- A scanning option is available to shorten the data recovery time.
- It enables users to retrieve files from quite a number of formatted and damaged drives.
- Free version is available for basic recovery operations.
Cons:
- Lesser advanced features as compared to other more robust recovery tools.
- In case of the free version, it is possible that the supported limit for the amount of resource which can be recovered is set.
- Scan of this type could be time consuming, especially when using large drives.
- File recovery success might be subject to file status.
- Limited support for customers of users with free account.
18.SoftPerfect File Recovery
The utility known as SoftPerfect File Recovery is quite handy. It is especially useful for recovering files deleted from NTFS and FAT file systems.
Users should not have any problems using this program, as there is no need to go through a lengthy installation process in order to recover lost documents, photos, or videos – the software is portable.
Thanks to its minimalistic design, the program’s main functions – locating and recovering deleted files – are understandable and operational by any and all users of the software, regardless of technical expertise. Given such requirements this software is easy to recommend as a basic data recovery application.
Pros And Cons SoftPerfect File Recovery
Pros:
- The software is portable and light which does not need to be installed.
- It does have a very simple screen which makes it easy to recover.
- It is compatible with numerous file systems such as FAT, NTFS, and others.
- Files can also be retrieved from USB sticks and other devices.
- There are no charges whatsoever for use of the software.
Cons:
- In terms of advanced recovery features, this recovery software cannot be compared to premium options.
- Does not allow you to see the files that you are about to recover.
- Has difficulty recovering files which have been badly fragmented or are corrupt.
- Does not come with a proper support team and detailed instructions.
- In case of larger disk drives, scanning may take quite some time.
19.PhotoRec
PhotoRec is a strong utility for recovering data files which has been created as open-source and has the ability of recovering lost data files from a number of hard disk, USB drive, memory card etc.
It’s very powerful and scans for a multitude of file types including documents, images, and videos. As it is command line based software, its potential and flexibility bar it as a remarkable software for advanced users.
Pros And Cons PhotoRec
Pros:
- Free software as it is available to the public.
- Provides recovery for different file formats without difficulty.
- These include dp and opara vehement archives.
- Able to help bring back lost data even from severely corrupted files.
- Mobile devices, Windows, Mac OS X and other systems are completely supported.
Cons:
- The command-user interface may be complex for a novice.
- Intelli will not show any user the files intended for any one mode.
- Some will take up to an hour or more for audio work to be completed.
- Limitations of textual literature can inhibit one from accomplishing great troubleshooting tasks.
- For some self-contained applications, advanced parameters are less intuitive than in other data recovery programs.
20.UndeleteMyFiles Pro
UndeleteMyFiles Pro is a very pragmatic and easy to use data recovery tool meant for the retrieval of erased data located on hard drives, USB drives and memory cards. The user interface is quite clean and the scanning time to find documents, images and videos is also very reasonable.
The advanced file filtering option along with the option to preview the files make the recovery even better, and thus it is very suitable for customers in search of good and fast data recovery options.
Pros And Cons UndeleteMyFiles Pro
Pros:
- A simple and straightforward UI which enables the easy use of the application.
- Recovers data from a wide range of storage devices such as hard drives or USB drives.
- Offers multiple levels of scan such as quick scans or deep scans for thorough data recovery.
- Enables file preview prior to recovery for the desired file to be chosen.
- Other features are also provided such as a file search tool and file shredding software.
Cons:
- The free version of UndeleteMyFiles has fewer recovering features than the Pro version.
- For the larger devices and storage spaces, scanning always takes time.
- Some of the premium features have to be subscribed to access in the premium version of the app.
- The performance of recovery operations depends on the state of the original files and the amount of damage they have sustained.
- Channels for customer support are limited as most of the users are free users.
Reasons To Choose Best Software recover Deleted Files
Efficiency: A cheap software turned out to be the winner. Performance-wise, check how many files can be restored and the types of files that can be retrieved regardless of the device it was stored on.
Ease of use: However, simplicity may be key especially for less experienced users. The managed application should have an easy navigation and help features / instructions making the recovery of files easier.
Scan Types: All the best programs will have more than one type of scan. One of the basic type would be a quick scan. Such a scan would suffice for recently erased files while deep scans are effective in finding files which were deleted a long time ago or have undergone fragmentation and so are spread over different locations on the disk.
Preview on Documents: The legal importance of the ability to view files before performing restoration actions is very high. Users should be sure that the tool has found the required document, thus users know what they’re going to retrieve.
Different Operating Systems: To make sure the application can be used on as many devices as possible, you need to ensure that it is compatible with many operating systems and file systems such as NTFS. Such compatibility means that files can be recovered from hard disks, thumb drives and memory cards.
Support of Different File Formats: The best recovery software should support files from multi sources such as documents, images, audio files and videos among others. Such diversity guarantees that whatever type of file employees may have lost, the recovery is possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the most appropriate software that one can use to regain deleted files is imperative so that one can efficiently get back lost data.
Some of the things that you should consider include ease of understanding, scanning options and compatibility so as to select the correct tool that you need.
With the right software, the possibility of recovering such important documents, photographs, and videos is high, guarantees the safety of such important information.