Quick Overview
- 1#1: DataNumen SQL Recovery - Repairs and recovers data from severely corrupted Microsoft SQL Server MDF and NDF database files with high success rates.
- 2#2: Stellar Repair for MS SQL - Fixes corrupted SQL Server databases and restores tables, triggers, stored procedures, and other components from MDF files.
- 3#3: SysTools SQL Recovery - Recovers data, indexes, tables, and triggers from corrupt SQL Server database files while maintaining integrity.
- 4#4: Kernel for SQL Database - Repairs damaged SQL Server MDF files and recovers all database objects including views and rules.
- 5#5: Aryson SQL Database Recovery - Restores corrupt SQL Server databases with support for multiple SQL versions and preview functionality.
- 6#6: Recovery Toolbox for SQL Server - Extracts readable content from inaccessible or damaged SQL Server database files across various editions.
- 7#7: EaseUS MS SQL Recovery - Recovers data from corrupted MS SQL Server databases and supports exporting to new databases.
- 8#8: SysInfoTools MS SQL Recovery - Scans and repairs corrupt MDF files of SQL Server with options to save recovered data in script or database format.
- 9#9: PerfectDataRecovery MS SQL Recovery - Restores tables, views, triggers, and stored procedures from damaged SQL Server database files.
- 10#10: AI dfile SQL Recovery - Recovers lost or deleted data from SQL Server databases with deep scan capabilities for MDF files.
We prioritized tools based on repair efficacy, ability to preserve data integrity, ease of navigation, and overall value, ensuring the list reflects both performance and practicality
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading SQL database recovery tools, featuring DataNumen SQL Recovery, Stellar Repair for MS SQL, SysTools SQL Recovery, Kernel for SQL Database, Aryson SQL Database Recovery, and others. Readers will discover key capabilities, performance, and usability to identify the most suitable solution for their recovery needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DataNumen SQL Recovery Repairs and recovers data from severely corrupted Microsoft SQL Server MDF and NDF database files with high success rates. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 2 | Stellar Repair for MS SQL Fixes corrupted SQL Server databases and restores tables, triggers, stored procedures, and other components from MDF files. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 3 | SysTools SQL Recovery Recovers data, indexes, tables, and triggers from corrupt SQL Server database files while maintaining integrity. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Kernel for SQL Database Repairs damaged SQL Server MDF files and recovers all database objects including views and rules. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Aryson SQL Database Recovery Restores corrupt SQL Server databases with support for multiple SQL versions and preview functionality. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 6 | Recovery Toolbox for SQL Server Extracts readable content from inaccessible or damaged SQL Server database files across various editions. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 7 | EaseUS MS SQL Recovery Recovers data from corrupted MS SQL Server databases and supports exporting to new databases. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | SysInfoTools MS SQL Recovery Scans and repairs corrupt MDF files of SQL Server with options to save recovered data in script or database format. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | PerfectDataRecovery MS SQL Recovery Restores tables, views, triggers, and stored procedures from damaged SQL Server database files. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | AI dfile SQL Recovery Recovers lost or deleted data from SQL Server databases with deep scan capabilities for MDF files. | other | 6.7/10 | 6.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.0/10 |
Repairs and recovers data from severely corrupted Microsoft SQL Server MDF and NDF database files with high success rates.
Fixes corrupted SQL Server databases and restores tables, triggers, stored procedures, and other components from MDF files.
Recovers data, indexes, tables, and triggers from corrupt SQL Server database files while maintaining integrity.
Repairs damaged SQL Server MDF files and recovers all database objects including views and rules.
Restores corrupt SQL Server databases with support for multiple SQL versions and preview functionality.
Extracts readable content from inaccessible or damaged SQL Server database files across various editions.
Recovers data from corrupted MS SQL Server databases and supports exporting to new databases.
Scans and repairs corrupt MDF files of SQL Server with options to save recovered data in script or database format.
Restores tables, views, triggers, and stored procedures from damaged SQL Server database files.
Recovers lost or deleted data from SQL Server databases with deep scan capabilities for MDF files.
DataNumen SQL Recovery
specializedRepairs and recovers data from severely corrupted Microsoft SQL Server MDF and NDF database files with high success rates.
Advanced multi-mode scanning algorithms that deliver industry-leading recovery rates even from severely corrupted MDF/NDF files
DataNumen SQL Recovery is a specialized tool for repairing and recovering data from corrupted SQL Server database files, including MDF and NDF formats. It supports Microsoft SQL Server versions from 7.0 to 2022, enabling the extraction of tables, views, stored procedures, triggers, indexes, and user-defined functions. The software offers quick scan, advanced scan, and template-based recovery modes, with preview capabilities and export options to SQL scripts or live databases.
Pros
- Exceptionally high recovery success rate (up to 97%) on damaged files
- Broad compatibility with SQL Server versions 7.0-2022
- Intuitive interface with data preview and selective export
- Handles large databases efficiently with multiple scan modes
Cons
- No macOS or Linux support (Windows-only)
- Full version required for saving recovered data (trial is demo-only)
- Higher pricing for business/enterprise licenses
- May struggle with extremely fragmented or encrypted files
Best For
Database administrators and IT professionals handling mission-critical SQL Server recoveries where maximum data salvage is essential.
Pricing
Personal license $129.95; Business $229.95; Enterprise $489.95; free trial available with demo export limitations.
Stellar Repair for MS SQL
specializedFixes corrupted SQL Server databases and restores tables, triggers, stored procedures, and other components from MDF files.
Advanced dual scan modes (Quick & Advanced) for recovering data from severely corrupted databases while preserving original structure
Stellar Repair for MS SQL is a specialized recovery tool that repairs corrupted MDF and NDF files from Microsoft SQL Server databases. It recovers tables, views, stored procedures, triggers, functions, rules, and user data while supporting all SQL Server versions from 2017 back to 2000. The software features advanced scan modes, live preview of recoverable items, and export options to SQL Server, XLS, or CSV formats for seamless restoration.
Pros
- Comprehensive recovery of database schema and data objects
- Intuitive wizard-based interface with accurate preview functionality
- Supports all SQL Server versions and multiple export formats
Cons
- No full recovery in free trial (preview only)
- Windows-only, no macOS or Linux support
- Relatively high cost for one-off or small-scale users
Best For
SQL Server database administrators and IT professionals needing reliable recovery of corrupted MDF/NDF files without deep technical scripting.
Pricing
Technician license $399 (1 PC, 1 year); Corporate $599; Free trial with preview only.
SysTools SQL Recovery
specializedRecovers data, indexes, tables, and triggers from corrupt SQL Server database files while maintaining integrity.
Advanced Scan mode that recovers data from severely corrupted MDF files where standard scans fail
SysTools SQL Recovery is a specialized desktop application for repairing and restoring corrupted SQL Server database files, including MDF and NDF files. It supports SQL Server versions from 2019 down to 2000, offering quick and advanced scan modes to recover tables, views, triggers, stored procedures, functions, and more. The tool provides a preview of recoverable items and multiple export options, such as direct to SQL Server database, SQL scripts, CSV, HTML, and XLS.
Pros
- No file size limitations, handles large databases efficiently
- Multiple scan modes (Quick and Advanced) for varying corruption levels
- Broad SQL Server version compatibility and versatile export formats
Cons
- Windows-only, no macOS or Linux support
- Fully functional version requires purchase; demo exports limited data
- Scan times can be lengthy for very large or severely corrupted files
Best For
Database administrators and IT professionals needing reliable recovery of corrupted SQL Server databases without size restrictions.
Pricing
Personal License $129, Administrator $249, Enterprise $499, Technician $999; free demo with limited export.
Kernel for SQL Database
specializedRepairs damaged SQL Server MDF files and recovers all database objects including views and rules.
Advanced recovery of permanently deleted records from SQL databases
Kernel for SQL Database is a specialized recovery tool from Nucleus Technologies designed to repair corrupt Microsoft SQL Server .MDF and .NDF files. It supports SQL Server versions from 2000 to 2019, recovers tables, views, stored procedures, triggers, and even permanently deleted records. The software features advanced scan modes (Quick, Thorough, Advanced) with preview capabilities and exports recovered data to SQL scripts, CSV, HTML, DBF, or XLS formats without file size limits.
Pros
- Broad SQL Server version compatibility (2000-2019)
- Recovers deleted records and handles large databases
- Multiple export formats including SQL scripts
Cons
- Windows-only, no macOS or Linux support
- Demo version doesn't allow saving recovered data
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern tools
Best For
Database administrators and IT professionals recovering data from corrupted on-premise SQL Server databases.
Pricing
Free demo available; full license starts at $129 (Personal), $199 (Technician), $399 (Enterprise) as one-time purchase.
Aryson SQL Database Recovery
specializedRestores corrupt SQL Server databases with support for multiple SQL versions and preview functionality.
Advanced scan mode for recovering data from severely corrupted or partially overwritten MDF/NDF files
Aryson SQL Database Recovery is a Windows-based utility specialized in repairing and recovering corrupted SQL Server database files, including MDF and NDF formats. It supports SQL Server versions from 2000 to 2022, offering quick and advanced scan modes to retrieve tables, views, triggers, stored procedures, and even deleted records. Users can preview recoverable data before exporting to SQL Server database, SQL scripts, CSV, HTML, or XLS formats, making it suitable for forensic and standard recovery tasks.
Pros
- Broad compatibility with SQL Server 2000-2022
- Preview functionality and multiple export options
- No database file size limitations
Cons
- Windows-only, no cross-platform support
- Trial version limits full recovery and export
- Interface feels dated compared to modern tools
Best For
Database administrators and IT professionals handling SQL Server corruptions on Windows environments who need reliable version compatibility.
Pricing
Starts at $99 for Personal license; Admin license at $199; Enterprise at $399 for multiple systems.
Recovery Toolbox for SQL Server
specializedExtracts readable content from inaccessible or damaged SQL Server database files across various editions.
Recovers data directly from damaged files without requiring a running SQL Server instance
Recovery Toolbox for SQL Server is a dedicated recovery tool for repairing corrupted MDF and NDF database files from Microsoft SQL Server databases. It scans damaged files to extract tables, indexes, views, stored procedures, triggers, and other objects, then exports them as SQL scripts or directly into a new database. The software supports SQL Server versions from 2000 to 2019 (and later) and operates via an intuitive wizard interface without needing a full SQL Server installation for previewing data.
Pros
- User-friendly wizard interface simplifies recovery process
- Supports wide range of SQL Server versions
- Preview functionality without SQL Server installation
Cons
- Limited success with severely damaged or encrypted files
- Trial version only previews data, no export
- Lacks advanced options like selective object recovery
Best For
Database administrators or IT users seeking a straightforward, no-install tool for recovering data from moderately corrupted SQL Server MDF/NDF files.
Pricing
Free trial for data preview; full license $99 for personal use, $199 for commercial.
EaseUS MS SQL Recovery
enterpriseRecovers data from corrupted MS SQL Server databases and supports exporting to new databases.
Three scan modes (Quick, Advanced, Auto) tailored to different corruption levels
EaseUS MS SQL Recovery is a dedicated Windows tool for repairing and recovering data from corrupted Microsoft SQL Server database files, including MDF and NDF formats. It supports SQL Server versions from 2005 to 2022, handling issues like corruption, deletion, formatting, or inaccessibility. The software provides quick scan, advanced scan, and preview options before exporting recovered data to SQL databases, CSV, HTML, or other formats.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with scan preview functionality
- Broad SQL Server version compatibility (2005-2022)
- Multiple export options including direct SQL database save
Cons
- Windows-only, no macOS or Linux support
- May struggle with severely fragmented large databases
- No advanced scripting or automation features
Best For
Database administrators or IT pros needing simple, GUI-based recovery for moderately corrupted SQL Server MDF/NDF files.
Pricing
Lifetime license at $129.95 (Professional edition); free demo with export limitations.
SysInfoTools MS SQL Recovery
specializedScans and repairs corrupt MDF files of SQL Server with options to save recovered data in script or database format.
Three-tiered scan modes (Quick, Extensive, Advanced) tailored to corruption severity
SysInfoTools MS SQL Recovery is a specialized utility for repairing corrupted MDF and NDF files from Microsoft SQL Server databases, supporting versions from 2000 to 2019. It offers three scan modes—Quick, Extensive, and Advanced—to handle varying corruption levels and recovers tables, views, triggers, stored procedures, functions, and rules. Users can preview items before exporting to a live SQL Server database or SQL script files, making it suitable for data recovery in damaged databases.
Pros
- Supports wide range of SQL Server versions (2000-2019)
- Three recovery modes for different corruption severities
- Preview and selective recovery of database objects
Cons
- Limited to Windows platform only
- No support for cloud-based SQL databases
- Advanced mode may not recover 100% in highly damaged files
Best For
SQL database administrators and IT professionals handling on-premises SQL Server recoveries from moderately corrupted files.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $129 (Personal), $199 (Technician), $399 (Enterprise); free demo available.
PerfectDataRecovery MS SQL Recovery
specializedRestores tables, views, triggers, and stored procedures from damaged SQL Server database files.
Three-tiered scan modes that adapt to mild, moderate, or severe database corruption
PerfectDataRecovery MS SQL Recovery is a Windows-based utility specialized in repairing and recovering data from corrupted MDF and NDF files of Microsoft SQL Server databases. It employs advanced scanning algorithms to retrieve tables, views, stored procedures, functions, triggers, and user data, with options to preview items before export. The tool supports SQL Server versions from 2000 to 2022 and allows exporting recovered data directly to a live SQL Server database or as SQL scripts.
Pros
- Three scan modes (Quick, Extensive, Append) for varying corruption levels
- Comprehensive preview and selective recovery options
- No database size limitations and broad SQL Server version support
Cons
- Windows-only, no macOS or Linux support
- Demo restricts exports to 50 records per table
- Lacks support for cloud-based SQL databases like Azure SQL
Best For
SQL database administrators and IT professionals handling on-premises MS SQL Server corruptions on Windows systems.
Pricing
Free demo available; full license $129 (Personal), $249 (Technician), $399 (Enterprise) one-time purchase.
AI dfile SQL Recovery
otherRecovers lost or deleted data from SQL Server databases with deep scan capabilities for MDF files.
Dual scan modes (quick and advanced) for optimized recovery from partially accessible databases
AI dfile SQL Recovery is a Windows-based tool specialized in repairing corrupted SQL Server database files (.mdf and .ndf) from versions 2000 to 2019. It performs quick and advanced scans to extract tables, views, triggers, and other objects, allowing users to preview and save recovered data as SQL scripts or new databases. While effective for minor corruptions, it may struggle with severely damaged files, making it a straightforward option for basic recovery needs.
Pros
- Intuitive wizard-based interface suitable for beginners
- Supports a wide range of SQL Server versions
- Preview function before recovery saves time
Cons
- Limited success with heavily corrupted or encrypted databases
- No support for other database systems like MySQL or Oracle
- Occasional reports of incomplete recoveries or software crashes
Best For
Small business IT admins or non-expert users needing simple, affordable recovery for mildly corrupted SQL Server files.
Pricing
One-time purchase starting at $69.95 for the full version; free trial with limitations.
Conclusion
The reviewed SQL database recovery tools offer robust solutions for repairing and restoring corrupted or damaged files, with standout performance from the top three: DataNumen SQL Recovery, Stellar Repair for MS SQL, and SysTools SQL Recovery. DataNumen emerges as the clear winner, celebrated for its high success rates in recovering from severe corruption, while Stellar and SysTools excel as strong alternatives, each tailored to specific needs like component restoration or multi-version support.
Ready to safeguard your SQL data? Start with DataNumen SQL Recovery, the top-ranked tool in this evaluation, and ensure minimal downtime and maximum data retention for your critical databases.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison