Quick Overview
- 1#1: EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard - Recovers deleted, formatted, and lost data from HDDs, SSDs, USB drives, and memory cards with preview and deep scan features.
- 2#2: Disk Drill - Provides intuitive data recovery for Windows and Mac from any storage device with free recovery up to 500MB and advanced algorithms.
- 3#3: Stellar Data Recovery - Professional tool for recovering data from corrupted drives, RAID arrays, and encrypted volumes with high success rates.
- 4#4: Recuva - Free recovery software that restores accidentally deleted files from Windows computers, Recycle Bin, and external drives.
- 5#5: Wondershare Recoverit - All-in-one data recovery solution supporting over 1000 file formats from various devices including crashed systems and videos.
- 6#6: MiniTool Power Data Recovery - Free tool for recovering data from hard drives, partitions, CDs/DVDs, and crashed systems with bootable media support.
- 7#7: R-Studio - Advanced data recovery software for professionals handling complex cases like damaged RAID, remote recovery, and hex editing.
- 8#8: TestDisk - Open-source utility for recovering lost partitions and repairing boot sectors on hard disks and other storage media.
- 9#9: Wise Data Recovery - Lightweight free tool that quickly scans and recovers deleted files from local drives, external storage, and Recycle Bin.
- 10#10: DMDE - Powerful disk editor and data recovery tool for manual recovery from deleted partitions and damaged file systems.
Tools were selected based on performance metrics (including recovery success rates), feature breadth (support for diverse devices and file types), user-friendliness, and overall utility, ensuring a balanced range of options for both casual users and technical professionals.
Comparison Table
Data recovery software is essential for retrieving lost files, and this comparison table evaluates top tools like EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, Disk Drill, Stellar Data Recovery, Recuva, Wondershare Recoverit, and more. It breaks down features, performance, and ideal use cases to help readers select the best option for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Recovers deleted, formatted, and lost data from HDDs, SSDs, USB drives, and memory cards with preview and deep scan features. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Disk Drill Provides intuitive data recovery for Windows and Mac from any storage device with free recovery up to 500MB and advanced algorithms. | specialized | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Stellar Data Recovery Professional tool for recovering data from corrupted drives, RAID arrays, and encrypted volumes with high success rates. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Recuva Free recovery software that restores accidentally deleted files from Windows computers, Recycle Bin, and external drives. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 5 | Wondershare Recoverit All-in-one data recovery solution supporting over 1000 file formats from various devices including crashed systems and videos. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | MiniTool Power Data Recovery Free tool for recovering data from hard drives, partitions, CDs/DVDs, and crashed systems with bootable media support. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | R-Studio Advanced data recovery software for professionals handling complex cases like damaged RAID, remote recovery, and hex editing. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 8 | TestDisk Open-source utility for recovering lost partitions and repairing boot sectors on hard disks and other storage media. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 3.5/10 | 10/10 |
| 9 | Wise Data Recovery Lightweight free tool that quickly scans and recovers deleted files from local drives, external storage, and Recycle Bin. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.1/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 10 | DMDE Powerful disk editor and data recovery tool for manual recovery from deleted partitions and damaged file systems. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
Recovers deleted, formatted, and lost data from HDDs, SSDs, USB drives, and memory cards with preview and deep scan features.
Provides intuitive data recovery for Windows and Mac from any storage device with free recovery up to 500MB and advanced algorithms.
Professional tool for recovering data from corrupted drives, RAID arrays, and encrypted volumes with high success rates.
Free recovery software that restores accidentally deleted files from Windows computers, Recycle Bin, and external drives.
All-in-one data recovery solution supporting over 1000 file formats from various devices including crashed systems and videos.
Free tool for recovering data from hard drives, partitions, CDs/DVDs, and crashed systems with bootable media support.
Advanced data recovery software for professionals handling complex cases like damaged RAID, remote recovery, and hex editing.
Open-source utility for recovering lost partitions and repairing boot sectors on hard disks and other storage media.
Lightweight free tool that quickly scans and recovers deleted files from local drives, external storage, and Recycle Bin.
Powerful disk editor and data recovery tool for manual recovery from deleted partitions and damaged file systems.
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
specializedRecovers deleted, formatted, and lost data from HDDs, SSDs, USB drives, and memory cards with preview and deep scan features.
AI-Boosted Scan for superior detection and recovery from severely damaged or formatted drives
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is a leading data recovery software that enables users to recover lost, deleted, formatted, or inaccessible files from hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, SD cards, and other storage devices. It supports a wide range of scenarios including accidental deletion, virus attacks, partition loss, and RAW drive recovery, with both quick and deep scan options for thorough results. Available for Windows and Mac, it offers file previewing before recovery and is praised for its high success rates across various file systems like NTFS, FAT, exFAT, and HFS+.
Pros
- Intuitive, wizard-like interface suitable for beginners
- Excellent recovery success from formatted, corrupted, and RAW drives
- Robust file preview and filtering options to select specific recoveries
Cons
- Free version limited to 2GB recovery
- Deep scans can be time-consuming on large drives
- Frequent upsell prompts in the free edition
Best For
Home users, photographers, and small businesses seeking reliable, user-friendly data recovery without needing advanced technical skills.
Pricing
Free (up to 2GB); Pro: $69.95/month, $119.95/year, or $149.95 lifetime.
Disk Drill
specializedProvides intuitive data recovery for Windows and Mac from any storage device with free recovery up to 500MB and advanced algorithms.
Recovery Vault, which proactively safeguards deleted files' metadata for easier future recovery
Disk Drill is a cross-platform data recovery software for Mac and Windows that scans and recovers deleted, lost, or corrupted files from hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, SD cards, and RAID arrays. It supports major file systems like APFS, HFS+, NTFS, FAT/exFAT, and offers quick/deep scans with file previews before recovery. Additional features include data protection tools like Recovery Vault and S.M.A.R.T. monitoring for drive health.
Pros
- Highly intuitive interface suitable for beginners
- Excellent file preview and filtering options
- Broad device and file system compatibility
Cons
- Free version severely limited (500MB on Windows, trial-only on Mac)
- Deep scans can take hours on large drives
- Advanced RAID recovery requires Pro version
Best For
Mac and Windows users needing straightforward recovery of deleted files from local storage without technical expertise.
Pricing
Free with 500MB limit (Windows); Pro from $89 one-time (Basic) to $119 (Pro), perpetual license.
Stellar Data Recovery
specializedProfessional tool for recovering data from corrupted drives, RAID arrays, and encrypted volumes with high success rates.
Integrated repair for corrupted videos, photos, and Outlook PST files alongside standard recovery
Stellar Data Recovery is a robust software tool specializing in retrieving lost, deleted, formatted, or corrupted data from HDDs, SSDs, USB drives, memory cards, and RAID arrays. It supports over 1,000 file types across Windows and Mac platforms, including NTFS, FAT32, exFAT, and HFS+ file systems, with options for quick and deep scans. The software also includes specialized repair tools for photos, videos, emails, and Office files, making it versatile for both recovery and restoration needs.
Pros
- Extensive device and file type support
- Preview function before recovery
- Integrated repair tools for media and emails
Cons
- Free version limited to 1GB recovery
- Scan times can be lengthy on large drives
- Pricing escalates for advanced editions
Best For
Home users and professionals needing straightforward recovery from diverse storage media with built-in file repair.
Pricing
Free (1GB limit); Standard $79.99/year, Premium $99.99/year, Technician $249 one-time license.
Recuva
specializedFree recovery software that restores accidentally deleted files from Windows computers, Recycle Bin, and external drives.
Deep Scan mode that recovers files even from overwritten or long-deleted data
Recuva is a free data recovery tool from Piriform (now CCleaner makers) designed to restore deleted files from hard drives, USB sticks, memory cards, and recycle bin. It features quick and deep scan modes, file previews, and supports over 70 file types including photos, documents, and videos. Available in portable and installer versions, it caters to both novice and advanced users via wizard or manual modes.
Pros
- Completely free core recovery functionality with no limits
- User-friendly wizard interface for beginners
- Portable version runs without installation
Cons
- Dated and somewhat clunky user interface
- Windows-only, no Mac or Linux support
- Lacks advanced features like RAID recovery or encryption handling
Best For
Windows users needing a simple, cost-free tool to recover accidentally deleted files from local or removable drives.
Pricing
Free standard version; Pro upgrade $19.95 one-time for support, updates, and virtual drive recovery.
Wondershare Recoverit
specializedAll-in-one data recovery solution supporting over 1000 file formats from various devices including crashed systems and videos.
Advanced Deep Scan mode that recovers data from formatted, corrupted, or overwritten partitions
Wondershare Recoverit is a user-friendly data recovery software that helps retrieve deleted, lost, formatted, or corrupted files from hard drives, SSDs, USBs, SD cards, and other storage devices. It supports Windows and Mac, with deep scan capabilities and preview options before recovery. The tool claims up to 99.5% recovery rates for various file types, making it suitable for both accidental deletions and more complex data loss scenarios.
Pros
- Intuitive three-step recovery process ideal for beginners
- Supports over 1,000 file types and 500+ scenarios
- Reliable preview feature to verify files before recovery
Cons
- Deep scans can be very time-consuming on large drives
- Free version limited to 100MB recovery
- Subscription model feels expensive for occasional users
Best For
Home users and non-technical professionals seeking simple, reliable data recovery from common storage devices.
Pricing
Essential annual plan at $69.99 (100GB recovery), Premium at $99.99 (unlimited), lifetime options from $149.99.
MiniTool Power Data Recovery
specializedFree tool for recovering data from hard drives, partitions, CDs/DVDs, and crashed systems with bootable media support.
Specialized recovery modules (e.g., for Recycle Bin, formatted drives, and CD/DVD) that simplify targeting specific data loss scenarios
MiniTool Power Data Recovery is a user-friendly Windows-based tool for recovering deleted, formatted, lost, or corrupted files from hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, SD cards, and RAID arrays. It features quick and deep scan modes, file previews, and support for NTFS, FAT, exFAT, and other file systems. The software includes specialized recovery modules for scenarios like Recycle Bin recovery, CD/DVD restoration, and crash-stopped scans, with a free version limited to 1GB recovery.
Pros
- Intuitive wizard-based interface suitable for beginners
- Reliable quick and deep scans for most common data loss cases
- Free edition allows up to 1GB recovery without restrictions on scanning
Cons
- 1GB limit in free version requires upgrade for larger recoveries
- Scan times can be lengthy on large or damaged drives
- Lacks advanced forensic features found in professional tools like disk imaging
Best For
Home users and non-technical individuals recovering small to moderate amounts of accidentally deleted files from everyday storage devices.
Pricing
Free (1GB limit); Personal Monthly $59, Yearly $69; Pro and higher tiers up to $159 lifetime for unlimited recovery.
R-Studio
specializedAdvanced data recovery software for professionals handling complex cases like damaged RAID, remote recovery, and hex editing.
Sophisticated RAID parameter editor for manual reconstruction of complex, non-standard RAID arrays
R-Studio is a powerful data recovery software suite from R-Tools Technology, capable of retrieving lost, deleted, or corrupted files from HDDs, SSDs, USB drives, memory cards, and RAID arrays. It supports an extensive range of file systems including NTFS, FAT/exFAT, HFS+, APFS, ReFS, and Ext, with advanced capabilities for raw file recovery, network recovery, and handling damaged partitions. The tool includes a built-in hex editor, file preview, and scripting for automated tasks, making it suitable for professional-grade recovery operations.
Pros
- Exceptional support for virtually all file systems and RAID configurations
- Advanced hex editor and raw recovery for severely damaged drives
- Network recovery and scripting for efficient professional workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve and cluttered interface for beginners
- Outdated UI lacking modern design elements
- No built-in cloud backup or mobile app integration
Best For
IT professionals and data recovery specialists handling complex RAID rebuilds and multi-file-system recoveries.
Pricing
One-time licenses start at $79.99 for Standard, $179.99 for Professional, up to $899.99 for Corporate; free demo available.
TestDisk
specializedOpen-source utility for recovering lost partitions and repairing boot sectors on hard disks and other storage media.
Deep partition table analysis and recovery, including support for complex scenarios like RAID and overwritten tables
TestDisk is a free, open-source data recovery tool primarily focused on recovering lost partitions, repairing corrupted partition tables, and fixing non-booting disks. It supports a wide array of file systems including FAT, NTFS, exFAT, ext2/ext3/ext4, HFS+, and ReiserFS, making it effective for undeleting partitions and rebuilding boot sectors. Often paired with its companion PhotoRec for file carving, it excels in forensic-level recovery from damaged storage devices without requiring installation.
Pros
- Exceptionally powerful partition recovery and boot sector repair
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, Linux, macOS) with no installation needed
- Completely free and open-source with broad file system support
Cons
- Command-line interface with steep learning curve for beginners
- Lacks a graphical user interface, limiting accessibility
- Requires technical expertise to interpret results and avoid data overwrites
Best For
Advanced users, IT professionals, and forensics experts handling partition loss or disk corruption on critical drives.
Pricing
Free (open-source, no cost or licensing required)
Wise Data Recovery
specializedLightweight free tool that quickly scans and recovers deleted files from local drives, external storage, and Recycle Bin.
Portable executable that requires no installation and leaves no traces on the system
Wise Data Recovery is a free Windows-based tool from WiseCleaner that scans and recovers deleted, formatted, or lost files from hard drives, USB drives, SD cards, and other storage devices. It offers quick scan for recently deleted files and deep scan for more thorough recovery, with a built-in preview feature to verify files before recovery. The software is lightweight and portable, requiring no installation, making it accessible for quick data rescue operations.
Pros
- Completely free with no recovery limits or hidden costs
- Intuitive interface suitable for beginners
- Portable version runs without installation
Cons
- Limited advanced recovery options like RAID or email-specific support
- Windows-only, no Mac or Linux compatibility
- Lower success rate for heavily overwritten or complex cases
Best For
Beginner Windows users needing a simple, cost-free tool for recovering accidentally deleted files from local drives.
Pricing
100% free with no paid upgrades or limitations.
DMDE
specializedPowerful disk editor and data recovery tool for manual recovery from deleted partitions and damaged file systems.
Integrated hex editor and manual disk structure editing for precise recovery from severely damaged media
DMDE (DM Disk Editor and Data Recovery Software) is a powerful, low-level tool designed for advanced data recovery, disk editing, and partition management across various file systems including NTFS, FAT, exFAT, EXT, and more. It excels in recovering data from damaged drives, deleted partitions, and complex RAID setups through manual scanning, hex editing, and scripting capabilities. While it supports both physical devices and disk images, its technical nature makes it ideal for professionals rather than casual users.
Pros
- Exceptional low-level recovery tools including cluster search and manual partition rebuilding
- Supports a wide array of file systems and RAID configurations
- Portable version available with no installation required
- Affordable licensing with a functional free edition
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to technical interface and lack of hand-holding
- Outdated graphical user interface that feels clunky
- Limited customer support and documentation
- No mobile or cloud integration
Best For
Advanced users, IT professionals, and forensics experts handling complex disk failures and deep data recovery tasks.
Pricing
Free edition with basic features; paid licenses start at €20 for personal use, €48 for professional, and €95 for enterprise (one-time purchase).
Conclusion
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard leads as the top choice, renowned for its broad compatibility and effective recovery across diverse storage devices. Disk Drill excels as a user-friendly option with reliable performance, while Stellar Data Recovery stands out for its professional-grade handling of complex scenarios. Together, these tools offer robust solutions to meet varied data recovery needs.
Take charge of your data security—try EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard today to easily retrieve lost files and restore peace of mind for your important information.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison