Accidentally deleted important files from your USB flash drive or SD card? Don’t panic—there’s a good chance you can get them back, especially if you act quickly. Whether it’s photos, documents, or entire folders, modern recovery tools and methods make it possible to restore data in just a few steps.
Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to recovering deleted files from USB drives and memory cards.
Step 1: Stop Using the Drive Immediately
The most important rule in data recovery: Don’t write anything new to the drive.
When files are deleted, they’re not physically removed—they’re just marked as “free space.” Writing new data could overwrite the old files and make them unrecoverable.
Remove the USB or memory card safely and avoid further use until recovery is complete.
Step 2: Try Built-In Recovery (If Available)
Some cameras and devices have a built-in recycle bin or temporary storage. If you’re lucky:
- Check the Trash or Recycle Bin (if used with a PC)
- For smartphones or cameras, check the “Recently Deleted” folder in gallery apps
If nothing is there, proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Use Data Recovery Software
There are several reliable tools that can scan your USB or memory card for deleted files. Most offer a free version that lets you preview recoverable files.
Recommended Tools:
Windows/macOS:
- Recuva (free, easy to use – Windows only)
- PhotoRec (powerful, open-source)
- EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
- Disk Drill
- R-Studio (advanced users)
How to use (example with Recuva):
- Download and install Recuva from https://www.ccleaner.com/recuva
- Insert the USB or memory card
- Launch Recuva → Select file type (e.g., photos, documents)
- Choose the drive letter (e.g., E:)
- Enable Deep Scan for better results
- Start the scan and wait for results
- Preview found files and recover to a different disk (not the same USB!)
Step 4: Try on Another Operating System
Sometimes, a file might be invisible or unreadable in Windows but accessible in Linux or macOS.
If the drive is readable but looks empty, try:
- Plugging it into a different OS
- Using tools like TestDisk (can repair corrupted partitions)
Step 5: Recover RAW Files (if the drive is damaged)
If your USB or SD card shows as “RAW” (unformatted), don’t format it right away. You can still recover files using advanced tools:
- PhotoRec
- MiniTool Power Data Recovery
- iCare Data Recovery
Be sure to select RAW recovery mode or full disk scan.
Step 6: Repair Corrupted Drives (Optional)
Once your files are safe, you can try repairing the USB/SD card:
On Windows:
- Open Command Prompt (Admin)
- Type:
chkdsk E: /f(Replace E: with the drive letter)
This can fix filesystem errors but should not be done before data recovery if your files are still missing.
Tips to Prevent Future Data Loss
- Always eject safely before removing a USB/SD card
- Backup files regularly to cloud or another drive
- Avoid using the same memory card in multiple devices without formatting
- Don’t use cheap or unbranded flash drives for important files
Losing data from a USB stick or memory card can be stressful—but with the right tools and quick action, recovery is often possible. Just remember: stop using the drive, scan with recovery software, and never recover files to the same disk.
