Data loss is a common problem for computer users, and it can happen due to various reasons such as accidental deletion, virus attacks, system crashes, and more. In such cases, data recovery software can help users retrieve lost data. Fortunately, there are many free data recovery software available for Windows that can help users recover lost files without spending any money.

These free data recovery software are easy to use and can recover files from various storage devices such as hard drives, USB drives, SD cards, and more. They can recover all types of files including documents, photos, videos, music, and more. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. Therefore, in this article, we have compiled a list of the 20 best free data recovery software for Windows in 2023.

Understanding Data Recovery

Data recovery is the process of retrieving lost, deleted, or corrupted data from various storage devices such as hard drives, USB drives, memory cards, and more. Data loss can occur due to various reasons such as accidental deletion, formatting, virus attacks, hardware failure, software corruption, and more.

To understand data recovery, it is important to know how data is stored on a storage device. Data is stored on a storage device in the form of binary digits (0s and 1s) in sectors and clusters. When a file is deleted or lost, the data is not completely erased from the storage device. Instead, the space occupied by the deleted file is marked as available for new data. This means that the deleted data is still present on the storage device until it is overwritten by new data.

Data recovery software works by scanning the storage device for the deleted or lost data and then reconstructing the data from the available fragments. The success of data recovery depends on various factors such as the cause of data loss, the extent of data damage, and the quality of the data recovery software.

It is important to note that data recovery is not always possible. In some cases, the data may be permanently lost or damaged beyond repair. Therefore, it is recommended to always have a backup of important data to avoid data loss situations.

In the next section, we will introduce the 20 Best FREE Data Recovery Software for Windows (2023) that can help you recover lost or deleted data from your storage devices.

Why Use Free Data Recovery Software?

Data loss can happen to anyone, regardless of how careful they are with their files. It can be caused by accidental deletion, formatting, virus attacks, system crashes, and many other reasons. When data loss occurs, it can be a frustrating and stressful experience, especially if the lost data is important.

This is where free data recovery software comes in handy. It is a cost-effective solution that can help recover lost data without breaking the bank. Free data recovery software is a great option for those who do not have the budget to invest in expensive data recovery tools or services.

Additionally, free data recovery software is easy to use and can save time and effort. It can recover data from various storage devices, including hard drives, USB drives, memory cards, and more. With just a few clicks, users can recover lost data without the need for complex technical skills.

Free data recovery software can also be a useful tool for those who want to test the software before purchasing the full version. It allows users to evaluate the software’s performance and features before deciding to invest in it.

Overall, free data recovery software is a great option for those who want a cost-effective, easy-to-use, and reliable solution for recovering lost data. It can save time, effort, and money, and provide peace of mind knowing that lost data can be recovered without breaking the bank.

Criteria for Evaluating Free Data Recovery Software

When it comes to choosing the best free data recovery software for Windows, there are several criteria that should be taken into consideration. Here are some of the important factors to evaluate:

Ease of Use

One of the most important factors to consider when evaluating data recovery software is its ease of use. The software should have a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, even for those who are not tech-savvy. The recovery process should be simple and straightforward, with clear instructions and prompts to guide the user through each step.

Recovery Capabilities

The recovery capabilities of the software are also crucial. The software should be able to recover a wide range of file types, including documents, photos, videos, and audio files. It should also be able to recover data from various types of storage devices, such as hard drives, USB drives, memory cards, and more. The software should be able to recover data from both formatted and corrupted storage devices.

Supported File Types

It is important to ensure that the data recovery software supports the file types that you need to recover. Some software may only support basic file types, while others may support a wider range of file types. It is also important to check whether the software can recover files from different file systems, such as NTFS, FAT, and exFAT.

Supported Devices

The software should support a wide range of storage devices, including hard drives, USB drives, memory cards, and more. It should also be compatible with different operating systems, including Windows 10, 8, 7, and earlier versions.

Customer Support

Good customer support is essential when it comes to data recovery software. The software should offer reliable technical support to help users resolve any issues that they may encounter during the recovery process. This can include email support, phone support, and live chat support.

In summary, when evaluating free data recovery software, it is important to consider factors such as ease of use, recovery capabilities, supported file types, supported devices, and customer support. By taking these factors into account, users can choose the best software for their needs and recover their lost data with confidence.

20 Best FREE Data Recovery Software for Windows (2023)

1. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is a user-friendly data recovery software designed to retrieve lost files from various storage devices. With its intuitive interface, even beginners can perform efficient data recovery without any hassle.

Features

Supports recovery of various file types, including photos, videos, documents, and more.
Compatible with Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP and Windows Server.
Recovers data from hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, memory cards, and other storage media.
Provides a preview option to check the recoverable files before restoring them.
Supports deep scanning to find files lost due to formatting, partition loss, and other issues.

Pricing

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard offers a free version that allows you to recover up to 2GB of data. For unlimited data recovery, you can upgrade to the Pro version starting at $69.95.

Pros

User-friendly interface suitable for beginners.
Excellent recovery rates for various file types.
Reliable and efficient deep scanning feature.

Cons

The free version has a limited data recovery capacity.
Advanced features only available in the paid version.

2. Recuva

Recuva is a powerful data recovery tool developed by CCleaner. It can restore deleted files from your Windows computer, recycle bin, digital camera card, or MP3 player with ease.

Features

Supports recovery of various file formats, including images, videos, emails, and more.
Deep scan option to find hidden and hard-to-recover files.
Securely deletes files, preventing any potential recovery.
Portable version available for use on-the-go without installation.
Intuitive user interface for easy navigation.

Pricing

Recuva offers a free version with basic data recovery features. For advanced recovery options and priority support, you can opt for Recuva Professional for $24.95.

Pros

Quick and efficient recovery process.
Secure file deletion for enhanced privacy.
Regular updates and customer support.

Cons

Some advanced features are only available in the Pro version.
Interface design could be more modern.

3. Disk Drill

Disk Drill is a versatile data recovery software that provides a comprehensive set of tools to recover lost files effortlessly. Its user-friendly interface and powerful features make it a popular choice among Windows users.

Features

Supports recovery of various file systems, including NTFS, FAT, HFS+, and more.
Capable of recovering data from internal and external storage devices.
Quick and deep scanning options to maximize the chances of data recovery.
Protects your data with Recovery Vault and Guaranteed Recovery features.
Allows users to create byte-to-byte disk backups for added security.

Pricing

Disk Drill offers a free version with limited features. The Pro version starts at $89 and provides additional tools and unlimited data recovery.

Pros

User-friendly interface suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
Powerful recovery capabilities with multiple scanning options.
Additional data protection features for added peace of mind.

Cons

The free version has limited recovery options.
The Pro version is relatively expensive compared to other options.

4. Stellar Data Recovery

Stellar Data Recovery is a well-established and reliable data recovery software designed to restore lost files from various Windows devices. Its advanced algorithms ensure a high success rate in recovering files from different data loss scenarios.

Features

Recovers lost or deleted files from hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, and memory cards.
Supports recovery of files from formatted or damaged partitions.
Provides an option to create disk images for secure data recovery.
Allows users to preview files before recovery for selective restoration.
Recovers data from BitLocker-encrypted drives.

Pricing

Stellar Data Recovery offers a free version with limited features. The Pro version starts at $49.99, and higher editions are available for more advanced recovery needs.

Pros

High success rate in recovering files from various scenarios.
Comprehensive recovery options for different file types.
Ability to recover data from encrypted drives.

Cons

The free version has limited recovery capabilities.
Some advanced features are only available in higher-priced versions.

5. MiniTool Power Data Recovery

MiniTool Power Data Recovery is a feature-rich data recovery software that caters to both home and business users. With its easy-to-use interface and powerful recovery capabilities, it is a top choice for Windows users.

Features

Recovers data from various storage devices, including HDDs, SSDs, and external drives.
Supports recovery of files from damaged or RAW partitions.
Allows users to preview files before recovery for accurate selection.
Offers four recovery modules: Undelete Recovery, Damaged Partition Recovery, Lost Partition Recovery, and Digital Media Recovery.
Provides a deep scan option for comprehensive data retrieval.

Pricing

MiniTool Power Data Recovery offers a free version with a limited recovery capacity. The Pro version starts at $69 and includes additional features and unlimited data recovery.

Pros

User-friendly interface with step-by-step recovery process.
Powerful recovery capabilities with multiple recovery modules.
Regular updates and customer support.

Cons

The free version has a limited recovery capacity.
Some advanced features are only available in the paid version.

6. Wise Data Recovery

Wise Data Recovery is a lightweight and easy-to-use data recovery tool designed to retrieve lost files from Windows devices. Its simplicity and efficiency make it a popular choice for those seeking a straightforward data recovery solution.

Features

Scans and recovers files quickly and effectively.
Provides a preview option for accurate file selection.
Supports recovery of various file types, including documents, photos, videos, and more.
Recovers data from internal and external storage devices.
Restores files from formatted or RAW partitions.

Pricing

Wise Data Recovery offers a completely free version with no limitations on data recovery.

Pros

Simple and user-friendly interface.
Quick and efficient data recovery process.
Free to use with no hidden costs.

Cons

Lacks some advanced features available in other software.
Customer support options are limited.

7. Puran File Recovery

Puran File Recovery is a powerful data recovery software that helps you retrieve lost files from your Windows system effortlessly. It is designed to be easy to use and offers advanced scanning options for maximum recovery success.

Features

Recovers data from various storage devices, including hard drives, USB drives, and memory cards.
Supports multiple file system formats, including NTFS and FAT.
Provides a Deep Scan option for comprehensive file retrieval.
Allows users to search for specific files with file filters.
Recovers files with original time and date stamps.

Pricing

Puran File Recovery is completely free to use.

Pros

Simple and intuitive user interface.
Efficient and thorough scanning process.
Recovers files with their original attributes.

Cons

Limited additional features compared to other software.
User support may be limited.

8. FreeUndelete

FreeUndelete is a straightforward data recovery tool that allows you to restore accidentally deleted files with ease. Its minimalistic design and ease of use make it a popular choice for quick file recovery.

Features

Recovers files deleted from internal and external storage devices.
Provides a preview option for accurate file selection.
Supports recovery of various file formats, including documents, photos, videos, and more.
Simple and easy-to-understand user interface.
Recovers files from emptied recycle bins.

Pricing

FreeUndelete is completely free to use.

Pros

Quick and efficient file recovery process.
Easy to navigate for users of all levels.
Freely available with no hidden costs.

Cons

Limited advanced features compared to other data recovery software.
May not handle complex data loss scenarios.

9. Glary Undelete

Glary Undelete is a reliable data recovery software that specializes in recovering deleted files from various storage devices. It offers a simple and effective approach to retrieving lost data.

Features

Recovers deleted files from hard drives, USB drives, and memory cards.
Supports recovery of various file types, including images, videos, and documents.
Provides a preview option to select specific files for recovery.
Intuitive user interface for easy navigation.
Recovers files emptied from the recycle bin.

Pricing

Glary Undelete is completely free to use.

Pros

Easy-to-use interface suitable for beginners.
Quick and efficient file recovery process.
Freely available with no cost.

Cons

Limited to basic file recovery capabilities.
Lacks advanced features offered by other software.

10. TestDisk

TestDisk is a powerful open-source data recovery software that specializes in recovering lost partitions and making non-booting disks bootable again. It is a versatile tool that can be used for various data recovery purposes.

Features

Recovers lost partitions and repairs damaged boot sectors.
Supports recovery of various file systems, including FAT, NTFS, and exFAT.
Allows users to fix partition tables and recover deleted files.
Compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Operates through a command-line interface for advanced users.

Pricing

TestDisk is completely free to use as an open-source software.

Pros

Versatile and powerful data recovery capabilities.
Can recover lost partitions and repair boot issues.
Freely available as open-source software.

Cons

Command-line interface may not be user-friendly for all users.
May require some technical knowledge for effective use.

11. Lazesoft Data Recovery Home

Lazesoft Data Recovery Home is a user-friendly data recovery software that helps you retrieve lost files from your Windows system effortlessly. Its intuitive interface and comprehensive recovery features make it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced users.

Features

Recovers files from various storage devices, including hard drives and memory cards.
Supports recovery of various file formats, including photos, videos, and documents.
Provides a preview option to ensure accurate file selection.
Recovers data from damaged or formatted partitions.
Supports Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10.

Pricing

Lazesoft Data Recovery Home is completely free for personal use.

Pros

User-friendly interface suitable for beginners.
Supports data recovery from various storage devices.
Freely available for personal use.

Cons

Some advanced features may require upgrading to the paid version.
Limited technical support for the free version.

12. Pandora Recovery

Pandora Recovery is a reliable data recovery software that helps you retrieve lost or deleted files from various storage devices. It uses advanced scanning algorithms to ensure a high success rate in data recovery.

Features

Supports recovery of various file formats, including photos, videos, and documents.
Recovers files from hard drives, USB drives, and memory cards.
Provides a preview option to ensure accurate file selection.
Allows users to search for specific files with file filters.
Restores files with original time and date stamps.

Pricing

Pandora Recovery is completely free to use.

Pros

Comprehensive recovery options for various file types.
Efficient and effective data recovery process.
Freely available for all users.

Cons

Limited additional features compared to other data recovery software.
User support may be limited.

13. Undelete 360

Undelete 360 is a user-friendly data recovery software that specializes in restoring accidentally deleted files. Its simple and intuitive interface makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

Features

Recovers files from internal and external storage devices.
Supports recovery of various file types, including documents, photos, and videos.
Provides a preview option for accurate file selection.
Allows users to search for specific files using file filters.
Recovers files from emptied recycle bins.

Pricing

Undelete 360 is completely free to use.

Pros

Simple and easy-to-use interface.
Quick and efficient data recovery process.
Freely available with no hidden costs.

Cons

Limited advanced features compared to other software.
May not handle complex data loss scenarios.

14. Free Data Recovery

Free Data Recovery is a straightforward data recovery software that helps you recover lost or deleted files from various storage devices. Its simplicity and efficiency make it a popular choice for quick file recovery.

Features

Recovers data from internal and external storage devices.
Supports recovery of various file types, including documents, photos, and videos.
Provides a preview option to ensure accurate file selection.
Quick and efficient file recovery process.
Restores files from emptied recycle bins.

Pricing

Free Data Recovery is completely free to use.

Pros

Simple and intuitive user interface.
Quick and efficient data recovery process.
Freely available with no cost.

Cons

Limited advanced features compared to other data recovery software.
May not handle complex data loss scenarios.

15. PC Inspector File Recovery

PC Inspector File Recovery is a powerful data recovery software that helps you retrieve lost files from various storage devices. Its extensive scanning capabilities and straightforward user interface make it a reliable choice for data recovery.

Features

Recovers files from hard drives, USB drives, and memory cards.
Supports recovery of various file formats, including photos, videos, and documents.
Provides a preview option to ensure accurate file selection.
Deep scan option for comprehensive file retrieval.
Compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10.

Pricing

PC Inspector File Recovery is completely free to use.

Pros

Comprehensive recovery options for various file types.
Powerful deep scan option for in-depth recovery.
Freely available with no cost.

Cons

May not have as many advanced features as some other software.
Limited technical support for the free version.

16. ADRC Data Recovery Software

ADRC Data Recovery Software is a reliable data recovery tool designed to help you retrieve lost or deleted files from various storage devices. Its simplicity and efficiency make it a popular choice for quick file recovery.

Features

Recovers files from internal and external storage devices.
Supports recovery of various file types, including photos, videos, and documents.
Provides a preview option for accurate file selection.
Quick and efficient file recovery process.
Restores files from emptied recycle bins.

Pricing

ADRC Data Recovery Software is completely free to use.

Pros

Simple and easy-to-use interface.
Quick and efficient data recovery process.
Freely available with no cost.

Cons

Limited advanced features compared to other data recovery software.
May not handle complex data loss scenarios.

17. SoftPerfect File Recovery

SoftPerfect File Recovery is a powerful and efficient data recovery software that helps you retrieve lost files from various storage devices. Its comprehensive scanning capabilities and user-friendly interface make it a reliable choice for data recovery.

Features

Recovers data from hard drives, USB drives, and memory cards.
Supports recovery of various file formats, including photos, videos, and documents.
Provides a preview option to ensure accurate file selection.
Deep scan option for comprehensive file retrieval.
Simple and easy-to-navigate user interface.

Pricing

SoftPerfect File Recovery is completely free to use.

Pros

Comprehensive recovery options for various file types.
Powerful deep scan option for in-depth recovery.
Freely available with no cost.

Cons

May not have as many advanced features as some other software.
Limited technical support for the free version.

18. Orion File Recovery Software

Orion File Recovery Software is a user-friendly data recovery software designed to help you retrieve lost or deleted files from various storage devices. Its simplicity and efficiency make it a popular choice for quick file recovery.

Features

Recovers files from internal and external storage devices.
Supports recovery of various file types, including photos, videos, and documents.
Provides a preview option for accurate file selection.
Quick and efficient file recovery process.
Restores files from emptied recycle bins.

Pricing

Orion File Recovery Software is completely free to use.

Pros

Simple and easy-to-use interface.
Quick and efficient data recovery process.
Freely available with no cost.

Cons

Limited advanced features compared to other data recovery software.
May not handle complex data loss scenarios.

19. TOKIWA DataRecovery

TOKIWA DataRecovery is a reliable data recovery software that helps you retrieve lost or deleted files from various storage devices. Its comprehensive scanning capabilities and straightforward user interface make it a reliable choice for data recovery.

Features

Recovers files from hard drives, USB drives, and memory cards.
Supports recovery of various file formats, including photos, videos, and documents.
Provides a preview option to ensure accurate file selection.
Deep scan option for comprehensive file retrieval.
Simple and easy-to-navigate user interface.

Pricing

TOKIWA DataRecovery is completely free to use.

Pros

Comprehensive recovery options for various file types.
Powerful deep scan option for in-depth recovery.
Freely available with no cost.

Cons

May not have as many advanced features as some other software.
Limited technical support for the free version.

20. UnDeleteMyFiles Pro

UnDeleteMyFiles Pro is a user-friendly data recovery software designed to help you retrieve lost or deleted files from various storage devices. Its simplicity and efficiency make it a popular choice for quick file recovery.

Features

Recovers files from internal and external storage devices.
Supports recovery of various file types, including photos, videos, and documents.
Provides a preview option for accurate file selection.
Quick and efficient file recovery process.
Restores files from emptied recycle bins.

Pricing

UnDeleteMyFiles Pro offers a free version with limited recovery capabilities. The Pro version starts at $39.95 for additional features and unlimited data recovery.

Pros

Simple and easy-to-use interface.
Quick and efficient data recovery process.
Freely available with limited recovery capacity.

Cons

Some advanced features require upgrading to the Pro version.
Limited technical support for the free version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is data recovery software safe to use?

Answer: Yes, data recovery software is safe to use, as long as you download it from reputable sources and follow the instructions carefully. These software tools are designed to recover lost or deleted files without causing any harm to your system or data.

Can data recovery software retrieve files from a formatted hard drive?

Answer: Yes, most data recovery software can recover files from a formatted hard drive. When a drive is formatted, the data is not completely erased; instead, the file system marks the space as available for new data. Data recovery software can scan the formatted drive and retrieve the lost files.

How long does data recovery take?

Answer: The time it takes for data recovery depends on various factors, such as the size of the storage device, the number of files to be recovered, the type of data loss, and the efficiency of the data recovery software. In general, a quick scan can take a few minutes, while a deep scan may take several hours.

Can data recovery software recover files from a physically damaged hard drive?

Answer: Data recovery software may not be able to recover data from physically damaged hard drives. In such cases, it is best to seek professional data recovery services, as they have specialized tools and facilities to retrieve data from damaged drives.

Are there any risks involved in using data recovery software?

Answer: While data recovery software is generally safe to use, there are some risks involved. If you choose the wrong software or use it incorrectly, you may overwrite the data you want to recover, making it unrecoverable. It’s essential to carefully read the instructions and avoid using the storage device until the recovery process is complete.

What should I do if I accidentally delete important files?

Answer: If you accidentally delete important files, stop using the storage device immediately to avoid overwriting the deleted data. Then, download and install a reliable data recovery software and follow the instructions to scan for and recover the lost files.

Conclusion

Losing precious data can be a nightmare, but with the 20 best free data recovery software for Windows (2023), you can recover your files hassle-free. Each of these software tools offers unique features, ease of use, and efficiency in retrieving lost or deleted files from various storage devices. Whether you’re a novice or a tech-savvy user, these data recovery options have got you covered.

So, the next time you accidentally delete important files or encounter data loss, don’t panic. Download one of these free data recovery software and let it work its magic to bring back your valuable data. Remember to always backup your data regularly to avoid such situations in the future.