How to recover deleted files on any device

We rescue lost photos and documents in Windows, macOS, Android and iOS.

From backup

Make regular backups, and the problem of accidentally deleted files will disappear for you. The easiest way is to set up a file backup to iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive or others cloud storage. They automatically create a backup version of each file after changing it and allow you to get back a deleted file or restore a damaged one.

If you don't trust the clouds, turn on automatic backups to your external hard drive or NAS using Backup in Windows 10 or Time Mashine in macOS.

On Windows and macOS

On Windows and macOS desktops, you'll need special programs to recover deleted files. The most popular option for Windows is Recuva. But it also has alternatives: DMDE and PhotoRec.

If one program fails, try running a scan with another. It is best to install applications on a different drive than the deleted files, so that it does not accidentally "overwrite" them completely.

Mac owners can use Disk Drill, Prosoft Data Rescue and MiniTool Mac Data Recovery. The first is the most famous and effective, and its free features are quite enough for the average user.

On Android smartphones

There are two ways to recover lost Android files. Method one, the simplest one, is to install a special application, such as DiskDigger or Undeleter, and let it scan the memory of your Android. True, if the files were stored not on the memory card, but in the phone itself, you will need root rights.

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DiskDigger photo recovery

Developer: Defiant Technologies, LLC

Price: Free

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Undeleter - Recover Files

Developer: Fahrbot PRI

Price: Free

You can also recover data by connecting your phone to a computer in external storage mode. After that, go through the Android storage through Recuva or Disk Drill.

On smartphones, too, one should not forget about backups. Set up copying pictures to Google Photos, and they will be saved in the cloud, even if you accidentally erase them.

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Google photos

Developer: Google LLC

Price: Free

IPhone

By default, iOS regularly backs up your files. For example, deleted photos stored for another 40 days in case they need to be returned. Launch the Photos app and click Albums → Select → Restore All.

IOS also uploads photos and other data to iCloud. Discover iCloud page and click "Account Settings" → "Recover Files". You can also get your lost contacts, calendars and Safari bookmarks back here.

Finally, if the built-in iOS tools did not help, it is worth running specialized programs like dr.fone Data Recovery or PhoneRescue. But keep in mind, they ask for money and do not guarantee results, so use them last.