5 Best Mac Data Recovery Software Apps

The following descriptions outline the best free data recovery software options readily accessible online for Mac users. While these five applications exhibit diverse features and functionalities, they collectively offer a common benefit: they are freely available and thus serve as valuable tools for individuals who require data recovery solutions on an occasional basis.So, if you want to recover deleted files on your Mac now, read on.

Mac Data Recovery Testing Statistics

Criteria	Value
Number of tested tools	18
How long we tested	3 weeks
OS version	macOS 13.4 Ventura
Minimum cost	freeware
Average cost	$89

Top 5 Recovery Software For Mac

#1. Data Rescue for Mac

Data Rescue 6 for Mac, developed by Prosoft, is a specialized software solution designed to assist users in the recovery of data across a broad spectrum of loss scenarios. This program is compatible with systems running macOS 10.12 and subsequent versions.

It’s important to note that continuous internet connectivity is a prerequisite for the tool’s operation, which may impose certain limitations on its functionality.

Data Rescue 6 proves valuable in the retrieval of any deleted file lost due to various circumstances, including accidental deletion, malware infections, or inadvertent formatting.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the tool presents restricted file display options, which can potentially pose challenges when attempting to locate specific items for recovery. Furthermore, since macOS 10.13, the scanning of system disks necessitates the utilization of Recovery Mode, a procedural change to be mindful of. So you do not need to worry if you have accidentally lost file in the recycle bin. 

Free Features

The complimentary trial version of Data Rescue 6 offers users the capability to conduct a device scan and preview the files that are potentially recoverable using the tool. Upon the completion of the scan, users will be presented with purchase options should they wish to proceed with the recovery of the identified items.

Pros:

• Online chat support
• Files can be previewed for free before buying the tool
• Emails can be generated to alert users about bad sectors

Cons:

• Pro version is expensive
• Difficult to locate found files due to the way they are displayed
• Recovery Mode needs to be used to scan system disks
• No method is available for finding lost partitions

Overall Experience

Considering Data Rescue 6 for identifying and recovering data could be a worthwhile option, especially because it offers a free feature to identify recoverable data. However, it’s important to note that some users might find the requirement to boot into Recovery Mode to scan system disks to be inconvenient. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that this software is relatively more expensive compared to alternative solutions.

#2. PhotoRec for Mac

PhotoRec may not be the most robust free data recovery tool available for Mac, but its standout feature lies in its open-source nature. This means that not only the application itself but also its source code is accessible to the public. PhotoRec is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including OS X, Linux, Free BSD, Net BSD, Open BSD, and Windows.

It is capable of recovering various common file formats like JPEG images, MP3 audio files, OpenDocument and Microsoft Office documents, PDF files, and ZIP archives. Moreover, it supports data recovery from diverse storage devices such as digital camera memory cards, USB flash drives, and hard disks.

Free Features

This no-cost Mac file recovery application employs an efficient technique known as file carving, which entails a two-stage process. In the initial stage, it endeavors to ascertain the data block or cluster size. In instances where the file system remains uncorrupted, this value is typically gleaned from the superblock (in the case of ext2/ext3/ext4 file systems) or the volume boot record (for FAT and NTFS file systems).

However, when this information is unavailable, the application conducts a meticulous sector-by-sector analysis of the storage device. It derives the block or cluster size by examining the first ten files encountered.

Subsequently, the application meticulously scans the device, systematically processing it block by block or cluster by cluster. Throughout this process, it cross-references the data against a diverse range of file signatures stored within the application’s database.

This methodology empowers the software to reconstruct and recuperate the available files. Nevertheless, the precise quantity of file signatures recognized by the application remains undisclosed.

Pros:

• Free Freeware tool 
• Wide range of support  for a wide variety of storage devices, file types, and file formats

Cons:

• Software not updated for years
• Expertise regarding the underlying disk system is required to use the tool
• Users must negotiate a complicated command-line interface to recover their lost data

Overall Experience

PhotoRec is a handy tool for individuals seeking to recover lost data and personal files without the necessity of employing a professional-grade application.

#3. Disk Drill for Mac

An excellent addition to your digital toolkit for Mac data recovery is Disk Drill. Since its introduction in 2010, this free application has disrupted the data recovery service industry by enabling everyday users to effortlessly retrieve their lost data with minimal steps, resulting in substantial cost savings. Disk Drill for Mac seamlessly integrates robust recovery capabilities with an interface that meets Apple’s high standards.

The most recent iteration of this versatile Mac file recovery software surpasses fundamental recovery functions by encompassing a comprehensive suite of data management and protection features. These features are thoughtfully designed to assist Mac users in preventing data loss.

Free Features

n its free edition, Disk Drill for Mac offers a comprehensive suite of features to assist with data recovery and management. Users can effectively evaluate recovery possibilities by generating precise previews of recoverable file formats supported by macOS.

Notable features include Recovery Vault, an advanced layer supplementing the Trash Bin by preserving references to deleted data. Additionally, the free version includes Guaranteed Recovery, a background service ensuring copies of each file are stored in a designated user folder for added data security.

The Byte-to-Byte Backup feature stands out, allowing users to restore lost data from an image of any device or partition, minimizing risks associated with scanning the original storage device. Moreover, Disk Drill provides various supplementary tools such as S.M.A.R.T. Monitoring, macOS Installer, Find Duplicates, and Data Shredder at no cost, enhancing the utility and versatility of the software for Mac users.

Basic Features

Disk Drill for Mac is a highly versatile data recovery application that offers comprehensive support for various Mac systems. It is natively compatible with Apple Silicon Macs, including the M1 and M2 models, while also providing full compatibility with older Intel-based Macs, whether they have the T2 chip or not. This ensures that users across different Mac generations can benefit from its data recovery capabilities.

In addition to traditional storage devices like internal and external hard drives, USB flash drives, SD cards, RAID arrays, and Time Machine backups, Disk Drill for Mac goes a step further by enabling data restoration from mobile devices running Android, iOS, and iPadOS. This mobile device support extends its utility to a broader range of users.

One of the standout features of this file recovery app is its extensive support for hundreds of file formats. It can recover data from all major file systems, including FAT16/FAT32, exFAT, NTFS/NTFS5, HFS/HFS+, APFS, ReFS, and ext2/ext3/ext4, as well as from raw storage devices that lack a file system. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for users with diverse data recovery needs.

Photographers and videographers will particularly appreciate Disk Drill for Mac’s top-tier performance in recovering RAW file formats, making it an excellent choice for professionals working with image and video files.

Furthermore, Disk Drill is a cross-platform solution that helps to recover data even when the files are not in the recycle bin, and a single license unlocks access to both Disk Drill for Mac and Disk Drill for Windows. This seamless integration allows for easy sharing of scan sessions between platforms, enhancing its convenience and usability for users operating in mixed computing environments.

Pros:

• Online chat support
• Files can be previewed for free before purchasing the tool
• Email notifications can be created to inform users about the presence of bad sectors

Cons:

•  Pro version of this tool is more expensive
• Recovery Mode needs to be used to scan system disks
• It can be difficult to locate found files due to the way they are displayed
• No method is available for finding lost partitions

Overall Experience

Considering Data Rescue 6 is a worthwhile option, as it offers a free identification of recoverable data. However, it’s important to note that for certain users, the requirement to boot into Recovery Mode to scan system disks may pose an inconvenience. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that this software is priced higher than some alternative solutions.

#4. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard stands out as one of the top data recovery software applications for Mac. The developer offers three distinct versions: a free trial, a Pro version, and an unlimited version.

Free Features

The free version has a restriction, allowing a maximum recovery of up to 2GB of data. This no-cost data recovery software is adept at retrieving data from a wide range of Mac devices, including notebooks, desktops, hard drives, USB drives, SD cards, memory cards, and digital cameras. It is compatible with internal HFS+ drives as well as FAT/FAT32 file systems commonly found in USB flash drives and external hard drives connected to Apple computers.

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard excels in recovering file formats frequently used for images, videos, music, and documents. Its primary focus is on restoring lost files resulting from accidental deletions or drive formatting.

Pros:

• Fast scanning process
• Scan results are efficiently categorized, making it easy to locate the items you want to recover

Cons:

• Not all common file formats can be previewed
• It is difficult to disable the default collection of user data

Overall Experience

The EaseUS free data recovery tool is a convenient application crafted for addressing occasional and inadvertent file deletions.

#5. DM Disk Editor and Data Recovery

DMDE Data Recovery Software is an extensive set of utilities created to assist users in effectively managing their Mac’s disks. This comprehensive suite encompasses the recovery of lost or unintentionally deleted files from various disk-based storage systems.

DMDE offers licensing options for single or multiple operating systems, extending its compatibility beyond macOS to include Windows and Linux systems. Moreover, the inclusion of disk editing and management tools enhances the utility and value of this versatile data recovery solution.

Free Features

The complimentary features of DMDE for Mac encompass the capability to scan disk-based devices, assessing recoverable files using the tool. Following this assessment, you have the opportunity to recover a maximum of 4000 files within the selected directory. This allows users to evaluate the software’s performance before making a purchase decision.

Pros:

• Can recover up to 4000 files with free version
• Multiple additional free features are included with the tool like a partition manager, a RAID constructor, a disk editor, and the ability to create disk codes.

Cons:

• Outdated user interface
• Limited customer support options available
• Solution is designed to be used by computer experts and may be too complex for the general user

Overall Experience

Users who operate multiple operating systems may appreciate the option to license the tool for use across various OS platforms. It’s important to note that this recovery software was primarily designed for expert users and may have a steeper learning curve compared to other, more user-friendly options. The intricate configuration requirements could potentially exceed the skill level of the average user.

How to Pick the Best Data Recovery Software for Mac

Choosing the most suitable Mac data recovery software can be a daunting task due to the abundance of options available. To assist you in making an informed decision, here are key selection criteria to prioritize:

Performance: Opt for Mac data recovery software that has honed its algorithms over time to swiftly and reliably locate deleted files. Since data retrieval is often time-sensitive, selecting a proficient application ensures a higher likelihood of successful data recovery on the first attempt to recover deleted data.

macOS Version Compatibility: Recent macOS versions have introduced substantial security enhancements. Confirm that the data recovery software you select is updated to support the latest macOS versions, ensuring seamless operation.

File System Support: Mac users typically employ various file systems like Apple File System (APFS), HFS+ (Mac OS Extended), MS-DOS (FAT), FAT32, and exFAT. Ensure that the chosen data recovery software supports these file systems. If you also require Windows drive recovery, it should be compatible with NTFS.

Price: The pricing of Mac data recovery software varies widely. Higher cost does not necessarily equate to superior performance. Look for options that allow you to preview recoverable files, permitting evaluation of their effectiveness at no cost. Additionally, consider whether the pricing model involves a one-time lifetime license fee or recurring monthly/yearly charges, as this can impact the overall cost.

File Type Compatibility: Given the multitude of file formats, no data recovery software can cover them all. However, prioritize solutions capable of recovering a wide range of file formats commonly encountered, as they offer broader utility.

Security: Prioritize trusted and secure software applications. While the options listed here are reliable, exercise caution when considering lesser-known data recovery solutions found online, as security can be a concern.

Feature Set: While basic data recovery is a common feature, some applications offer additional functionalities to simplify and enhance the recovery process. Features like file preview, recovery from failing or formatted devices, and support for RAW and lost partitions can be valuable. Some recovery tools even serve as robust backup solutions, providing added value.

By keeping these criteria in mind, you can confidently select Mac data recovery software that aligns with your specific needs, ensuring efficient and successful data retrieval even when the file is not in the recycle bin.

Final Verdict

Our recommendation leans toward choosing Disk Drill Data Recovery Software for Mac, as it consistently delivers high success rates in data recovery. This exceptional data recovery tool not only excels to recover files, but also boasts an attractive user interface that is more intuitive. Additionally, it offers a wealth of free disk tools that can prove invaluable to a wide range of users. Most of these software also work on a Windows PC. However, you might want to consider other advanced disk recovery options that focus only on Windows data recovery.