Next, the Wizard asks where to find the files-on a specific drive, everywhere in your computer, in the Recycle Bin, in your Documents folder, and more. If your drive is physically failing, you'll want to make a disk image otherwise, the direct-from-the-drive option should be fine.

The Wizard first asks what kind of files you're trying to recover-all files, compressed archives, documents, video, and so forth-then (if you're using the professional version) asks whether you want to recover directly from the drive or make a disk image from the drive and try to recover from the image. By default, it starts with a Wizard interface, which helps choose the options you're likely to want, and saves you the trouble of navigating the relatively complex option menus that you'll need to use if you cancel out of the Wizard. (Opens in a new window) Recovering With Recuva Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. Note that there is no Mac version of Recuva our top choice for data recovery on the Mac is Alsoft DiskWarrior. This is an essential feature when you're working with a physically failing drive, and a similar feature is in all the other apps in this survey.

The one built-in feature in the Professional version (which is what I tested) that isn't in the free one is the ability to create an image file from the disk with files that you want to recover, and then recover files from the image. Still, if you're choosing a file-rescue program for tech-challenged relatives or colleagues, and you don't want to spend a wad of cash, Recuva may be enough to get the job done. On the other hand, if it doesn't find the file you want, then its low price and convenience aren't worth much at all. It's very good no-cost/low-cost file recovery software, and, for the price, you may not care that it recovers fewer files than our two Editors' Choice apps in this category, Kroll Ontrack EasyRecovery and Stellar Phoenix Windows Data Recovery. It offers both a free version and a low-cost $19.95 Professional version of its software. Looking for inexpensive data recovery software? Recuva may be right up your alley.

Can't recover as many files as high-priced rivals.

How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication.

How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.

How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.

How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.

How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.

How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.

Recuva review reddit