Can deleted files be recovered from a USB flash drive?

Yes, if the USB is still detected and the deleted files have not been overwritten. Stop using the flash drive and scan the original USB before formatting it or saving new files to it.

Can I recover files from a formatted USB drive?

Often, yes. Formatting usually removes file references first, so USB recovery may still be possible until new data overwrites the original files.

What should I do first after losing USB files?

Stop using the USB, check whether the computer still detects it, and scan the original flash drive. Do not run CHKDSK or format the USB before recovery. Save recovered files to another drive.

Can software recover files from a physically damaged USB?

Usually no, if the USB is cracked, water-damaged, burned, or not detected on any computer. Software needs a readable USB volume. Severe physical damage is a professional recovery case.

Should I run CHKDSK or format the USB before recovery?

No. CHKDSK can change the USB file system, and formatting can make recovery harder. Recover files first, then repair or format the drive if needed.

Can overwritten USB files be recovered?

Usually no. Once deleted USB files are replaced by new data, recovery is unlikely. That is why you should stop using the flash drive immediately after data loss.

Why is my USB flash drive not recognized?

The USB may have a file system error, a failed controller, a bad port, or physical damage. Try another port or computer first. If the drive stays undetected, software recovery is unlikely.

How long does USB flash drive recovery take?

Recovery time depends on USB capacity, scan mode, file count, and drive condition. Small flash drives may finish in minutes, while larger or heavily damaged volumes can take longer.

USB Flash Drive Recovery

Recover Deleted USB Files

Recoverit helps recover deleted, formatted, corrupted, or unrecognized USB files from flash drives, pen drives, thumb drives, and USB sticks when the drive is still detectable and the files have not been overwritten. It is best suited to logical data loss, including accidental deletion, formatting, file system errors, virus infection, improper ejection, and RAW or inaccessible USB volumes.

If the USB flash drive is physically broken, water-damaged, burned, or not detected on any computer, stop repeated attempts and consider a professional recovery service.

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For Windows Vista/7/8/8.1/10/11

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For macOS 10.10 or later

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Why USB Flash Drive Files Get Lost?

USB files can disappear after accidental deletion, formatting, virus infection, file system corruption, improper ejection, partition loss, or physical damage. The safest next step depends on whether the USB is still detected and whether new files have already overwritten the original data.

Physical Damage

Physical damage, such as water exposure, heat, or impact can damage the internal components or the storage medium itself, rendering a flash drive or pen drive unreadable.

Accidental Deletion

Files deleted from a USB flash drive usually do not go to the Recycle Bin. Stop saving new files to the same USB and scan the original drive before formatting it.

Formatting Errors

A formatted USB drive may still contain recoverable file data if the drive has not been reused. Recover files first, then decide whether the USB should be reformatted.

Virus or Malware Infections

Malware can hide, rename, or delete USB files. If the drive is still detected, recover the files to another location before repairing or wiping the USB.

File System Corruption

A RAW, unreadable, or corrupted USB file system can make folders disappear. Scan the original USB before running CHKDSK, formatting, or other repair commands.

Improper Ejection

Removing a USB stick while files are still being written can leave documents, photos, or videos incomplete or inaccessible. Recover first, then check whether leftover files need repair.

Physical or Electrical Damage

A cracked connector, water-damaged stick, burned circuit, or USB that is not detected on any computer is not a good software-only case. Stop repeated attempts and consider professional recovery.

Partition Loss

If Windows or macOS no longer shows the USB partition, the drive may still contain recoverable data. Avoid creating a new partition until the original USB has been scanned.

What To Do First After USB Flash Drive Data Loss?

After USB files disappear, stop writing to the drive, check whether the computer still detects it, and recover from the original USB before formatting or repairing it.

Stop Using the USB Drive

Unplug the USB only after transfers have finished, then avoid copying, recording, or installing anything to the same stick. New data can overwrite deleted USB files.

Step 1

Scan the USB With Recovery Software

If the flash drive is still detected, use Recoverit to scan the original USB and preview recoverable files. Save recovered items to your computer or another drive, not back to the same USB.

Step 2

Use Professional Recovery

If the USB is physically damaged, makes no connection on any port or computer, or has suffered water or burn damage, stop repeated DIY attempts and contact a professional lab.

Step 3

USB Flash Drive Recovery Software:
Deleted, Formatted, and Unrecognized Drives

Recoverit is USB flash drive recovery software for deleted, formatted, corrupted, RAW, and unrecognized USB files when the drive is still detectable. It can scan common USB file systems such as FAT32, exFAT, NTFS, and APFS, then preview recoverable photos, videos, documents, and archives before recovery.

√ Recover common logical USB data loss cases, including accidental deletion, formatting,
virus infection, improper ejection, and file system errors.

√ Recover common USB file types such as photos, videos, documents, audio, and archives
when the data is still recoverable.

√ Support recovery workflows for many USB flash drive, pen drive, thumb drive, and USB
stick brands when the drive remains readable.

√ Preview files before recovery and save them to a different location so the original USB
is not overwritten.

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*Free download to scan and preview your lost or deleted data.

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Data Recovery

Recovery Experts
Since 2003

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Guarantee

How to Recover Files from a USB Flash Drive with Recoverit

Connect the original USB flash drive, scan it with Recoverit, preview recoverable files, and save them to a different location.

Step 1. Select the original USB flash drive

Plug the USB flash drive, pen drive, or USB stick into a working port. Open Recoverit and select the original USB volume, not another disk.

Step 2. Scan the USB for deleted and lost files

Start a scan for deleted, formatted, hidden, RAW, or inaccessible USB files. Keep the drive connected until the scan finishes.

Step 3. Preview and recover to a different location

Preview recoverable photos, videos, documents, or other files. Recover selected items to a computer or another drive. Do not save them back to the same USB.

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Recover Files from USB Flash Drives, Pen Drives, and USB Sticks

Recoverit scans the USB flash drive itself when Windows or macOS can detect the storage volume. USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, Mini-USB, and Micro-USB describe the connector, not the files being recovered.

Supported USB Devices

Pen drives

recover deleted files from usb flash drive

USB flash drives

External hard drives

Android phone and tablets

USB-based digital cameras

USB-based gaming consoles

(e.g. X-box, PlayStation)

Portable SSDs

recover deleted files from usb-based players

USB-based MP3/MP4 Players

USB-based camcorders

Supported USB Types

USB-A

USB-A is the most common and recognizable type of USB connector. It's typically used to connect peripherals like keyboards, mice, printers, and flash drives.

USB-B

USB-B connectors are less common than USB-A connectors and are typically found on printers, scanners, and larger devices.

Mini-USB

Micro-USB connectors are smaller than USB-A and USB-B connectors. They were widely used in the past for devices like digital cameras, MP3 players, and older smartphones.

Micro-USB

Micro-USB connectors are smaller than USB-A and USB-B connectors. They were widely used in the past for devices like digital cameras, MP3 players, and older smartphones.

USB-C

USB-C supports faster data transfer speeds and can deliver higher power levels, making it suitable for a wide range of devices such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and external storage devices.

Recover Photos, Videos, Documents, and Other USB File Types

Recoverit can recover common USB file types from flash drives, pen drives, and USB sticks, including photos, videos, documents, audio, emails, and archives, when the data is still recoverable. Supported examples include JPG, PNG, RAW, MP4, MOV, AVI, DOCX, XLSX, PPTX, PDF, ZIP, RAR, and 7Z. Recoverability depends on overwrite status, file system damage, and whether the USB remains detectable.

Documents

DOC/DOCX (Microsoft Word Document), PDF (Portable Document Format), XLS/XLSX (Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet), PPT/PPTX (Microsoft PowerPoint Presentation), TXT (Plain Text), RTF (Rich Text Format), CSV (Comma-Separated Values), HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), etc.

Images

JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), PNG (Portable Network Graphics), GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), TIFF (Tagged Image File Format), BMP (Bitmap Image File), RAW (Camera RAW Image), PSD (Adobe Photoshop Document), SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics), etc.

Videos

MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14), AVI (Audio Video Interleave), MOV (QuickTime Movie), MKV (Matroska Video), WMV (Windows Media Video), FLV (Flash Video), MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group), 3GP (3GPP Multimedia), etc.

Audio Files

MP3 (MPEG Audio Layer III), WAV (Waveform Audio File Format), AAC (Advanced Audio Coding), WMA (Windows Media Audio), FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec), OGG (Ogg Vorbis), AIFF (Audio Interchange File Format), M4A (MPEG-4 Audio Layer), etc.

User Reviews for Recoverit USB Data Recovery

Marty Alvear-Jasso on Trustpilot

Wondershare Recoverit is THE only data recovery you will need!!!

I was running out of options for recovering 30 GB worth of work-related docs and data. I made the mistake of buying a cheap Amazon USB thumb drive and lost it all in a few days. REcoverit was able to recover every single file at a reasonable price. I highly recommend their products and customer service it number one. Can't recommend it enough.

Donald T Davies on Trustpilot

I had a very important document which…

I had a very important document which had been accidentally deleted from a flash drive. I tried another product with absolutely no luck at all. I found Recoverit on the internet and decided to give it a try. It was extremely easy and effective. I can't explain how relieved I was to retrieve the document. It was wonderful.

User results vary by USB condition, overwrite activity, and whether the flash drive remains detectable.

USB Flash Drive Recovery Software Comparison

Use this comparison to understand preview, free recovery limits, and Windows or Mac support. For a full software roundup, see the USB data recovery software page.

	Wondershare Recoverit	Stellar Data Recovery	MiniTool Power Data Recovery	Recuva	TestDisk
Star Rating
Modern UI					（GLI Tool）
Supported OS	Windows, Mac	Windows, Mac	Windows	Windows	Windows, Mac, Linux
Supported USB File Systems	exFAT, FAT16, FAT32, NTFS, ReFS, HFS+, Encrypted HFS, HFSX, APFS, BTRFS, XFS, BFS, EXT4	exFAT, FAT16, FAT32, NTFS, HFS+, APFS	FAT12, FAT16, FAT32, exFAT, VFAT, NTFS, NTFS5	exFAT, FAT16, FAT32, NTFS, EXT2/3/4	FAT12, FAT16, FAT32, exFAT, NTFS, HFS, HFS+, HFSX, JFS, BTRFS, XFS, EXT2/3/4
Supported File Types	1000+	400+	100+	50+	100+
Quick and Deep Scan
File Preview				Partial Support
Resume Scanning Process
BitLocker/T2/M1/M2 Encrypted USB Drive Recovery		Partial Support
RAW Photo Recovery		Partial Support	Limited support	Limited support	Limited support
RAW Video Recovery
Lost Partition Recovery
Document/Photo/Video Repair		Partial Support	Partial Support
Price	Starts at $59.99	Starts at $39.99	Starts at $69.99	Starts at $24.95	Free and open source

Recoverit is a strong option when you need to scan a detectable USB flash drive, preview recoverable files, and restore selected items to another location. Recuva and TestDisk can help in limited free cases, but they offer fewer preview and guided recovery controls.

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Other Ways to Recover USB Files Before or After Software Recovery

Check whether the USB is detected, whether a computer backup exists, and whether the files were deleted from the computer instead of the USB. Use Recoverit to scan the original flash drive. Run CHKDSK or format the USB only after recovery or backup.

use cmd to recover deleted files from usb without software

Way 1. Use the Command Prompt (Windows)

If you're familiar with command-line operations, you can recover deleted files from a USB drive using simple commands. This method is especially effective for retrieving data from corrupted USB drives. Follow the step-by-step guide below to use the Command Prompt utility on Windows. By running a specific command, you can initiate a scan on the USB drive and potentially retrieve your lost files.

1. Connect the USB drive to your computer.
2. Open the Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key + R, typing "cmd," and pressing Enter.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command: chkdsk X: /f (replace X with the drive letter assigned to the USB drive).
4. Press Enter to execute the command.
5. The command will scan and attempt to recover any lost data on the USB drive.
6. After the process completes, check the USB drive for recovered files.

Note: CHKDSK can repair some file system errors, but it is not a deleted-file recovery method. Do not run CHKDSK, format the USB, or create a new partition before recovery.

Way 2. Utilize Previous Versions (Windows)

Windows has introduced the Restore Previous Versions feature to assist users in recovering deleted files. So, if you have enabled the "File History" feature or created system restore points on your computer, you can freely access previous versions of files and restore them from the USB drive without the need for third-party software.

1. Connect the USB drive to your computer.
2. Right-click on the USB drive and select "Properties."
3. In the Properties window, go to the "Previous Versions" tab.
4. Choose a previous version of the folder that contained the deleted files.
5. Click on the "Restore" button to recover the files to their original location on the USB drive.

use previous versions to recover usb data without software

use temp files to recover usb data without software

Way 3. Check for Temporary Files

Sometimes, temporary copies of files are created and stored on the USB drive. These temporary files might provide an opportunity to recover deleted files from USB without software. By searching for files with specific extensions, you can identify temporary copies and potentially restore your deleted data.

1. Connect the USB drive to your computer.
2. Open the USB drive in File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac).
3. Look for files with extensions like ".TMP" or ".Bak" on the USB drive.
4. These temporary files often have names similar to the deleted files.
5. Select any files that match the criteria and rename them by removing the ".TMP" or ".Bak" extension.
6. Attempt to open the renamed files using the associated application (e.g., a Word document with ".docx" extension can be opened with Microsoft Word). If the renamed files open successfully, you have likely recovered the deleted files.

Note: Renaming TMP or Bak files is not USB flash drive recovery. It only applies when leftover temporary or backup copies are still visible on the computer.

Note: These methods may not guarantee a successful recovery, and professional USB recovery software is generally more reliable. Remember
to stop using the USB drive immediately after data loss to avoid overwriting the deleted files.

When USB Flash Drive Recovery Needs a Professional Lab

Choose professional USB recovery when the flash drive is physically damaged, water-damaged, burned, or not detected on any computer. A lab can work on the memory chip or controller when software cannot see the drive. If the USB is still detected, scan it with Recoverit first and save recovered files elsewhere
before sending the drive out.

Step 1: Research and compile a list

Start by researching reputable data recovery service providers that specialize in USB data recovery. Look for companies with a proven track record and positive customer reviews.

Step 2: Assess expertise and experience

Evaluate the expertise and experience of each data recovery service. Check if they have specific knowledge and success in recovering data from USB drives. Look for certifications or affiliations that demonstrate their expertise in data recovery.

Step 3: Check for cleanroom facilities

USB data recovery often requires specialized cleanroom facilities to handle delicate hardware components. Ensure that the data recovery service has a certified cleanroom environment to perform the necessary procedures safely.

Step 4: Consider security and confidentiality

Data privacy is paramount when choosing a data recovery service. Ensure the company follows strict security protocols and maintains confidentiality throughout the recovery process. Look for certifications such as ISO 27001 to ensure adherence to industry standards.

Step 5: Inquire about the recovery process

Contact the data recovery services on your list and ask about their recovery process. Seek information on the techniques, tools, and methods they use to recover data from USB drives. A transparent and detailed explanation of their process is a positive sign.

Step 6: Request a quote and turnaround time

Contact the shortlisted services and request a quote for your specific USB data recovery needs. Inquire about the estimated turnaround time for the recovery process. Compare pricing and timeframes among different providers.

Step 7: Verify data recovery success rates

Ask the data recovery services about their success rates for USB data recovery. While they may not provide specific percentages, a reputable service should give you an idea of their track record in successfully recovering data from USB drives.

Step 8: Consider customer support and after-recovery services

Assess the level of customer support provided by each data recovery service. Inquire about any after-recovery services they offer, such as data transfer or assistance with accessing the recovered files.

Step 9: Make an informed decision

Evaluate all the gathered information, including expertise, security measures, pricing, success rates, and customer support. Choose the data recovery service that aligns best with your requirements and inspires confidence in their ability to recover your USB data effectively.

Note: If data recovery software fails, professional data recovery services may be necessary. However, they have drawbacks: they can be time-
consuming and expensive. These services require thorough analysis, it could take days or even weeks to retrieve your data. Additionally,
specialized tools and expertise contribute to higher costs. Consider the importance of the data and weigh the cost and time factors before opting
for professional assistance.

How to Reduce USB Flash Drive Data Loss

Data loss can be a frustrating experience, especially when it happens to important files stored on a USB flash drive. Fortunately, by taking proactive measures, you can minimize the risk of USB flash drive data loss and ensure the security of your files. In this article, we will share essential tips to help you avoid data loss and maintain the integrity of your flash drive.

Back up important USB files

One of the most effective ways to prevent data loss is to create regular backups of your flash drive. By regularly copying your files to another storage medium, such as a computer, external hard drive, or cloud storage, you can ensure that even if your USB device becomes inaccessible or gets damaged, you still have a copy of your important data.

Tip 1

Eject the USB safely before unplugging it

Always practice safe removal of your USB flash drive from the computer or device. Use the "Safely Remove Hardware" or "Eject" option provided by the operating system to ensure that all data transfers are complete and the drive is ready for safe removal. This helps prevent data corruption or loss that can occur when the drive is disconnected abruptly.

Tip 2

Protect Against Physical Damage

USB flash drives are compact and portable, but they can also be fragile. To avoid physical damage that can lead to data loss, handle your USB drive with care. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, moisture, or physical impact. Use protective cases or covers to shield the drive from potential harm.

Tip 3

Scan for Malware

Before transferring files to your USB stick, make it a habit to scan them with reliable antivirus software. Malware-infected files can corrupt data on the drive and compromise the security of other devices it connects to. Regularly update your antivirus software to ensure optimal protection.

Tip 4

Avoid filling the flash drive to 100% capacity

USB flash drives have limited storage capacities. Avoid overloading the drive with files and ensure it has sufficient free space. Running out of storage can lead to data corruption or loss. Consider using larger capacity drives or transferring older files to other storage solutions to free up space.

Tip 5

Keep Firmware and Drivers Updated

Manufacturers often release firmware updates for USB flash drives to enhance performance and address potential vulnerabilities. Check the manufacturer's website for updates and ensure that your drive's firmware and drivers are up to date. This can help prevent compatibility issues and improve the overall reliability of the drive.

Tip 6

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FAQs About Flash Drive Data Recovery

Can deleted files be recovered from a USB flash drive?

Yes, if the USB is still detected and the deleted files have not been overwritten. Stop using the flash drive and scan the original USB before formatting it or saving new files to it.
Can I recover files from a formatted USB drive?

Often, yes. Formatting usually removes file references first, so USB recovery may still be possible until new data overwrites the original files.
What should I do first after losing USB files?

Stop using the USB, check whether the computer still detects it, and scan the original flash drive. Do not run CHKDSK or format the USB before recovery. Save recovered files to another drive.
Can software recover files from a physically damaged USB?

Usually no, if the USB is cracked, water-damaged, burned, or not detected on any computer. Software needs a readable USB volume. Severe physical damage is a professional recovery case.
Should I run CHKDSK or format the USB before recovery?

No. CHKDSK can change the USB file system, and formatting can make recovery harder. Recover files first, then repair or format the drive if needed.
Can overwritten USB files be recovered?

Usually no. Once deleted USB files are replaced by new data, recovery is unlikely. That is why you should stop using the flash drive immediately after data loss.
Why is my USB flash drive not recognized?

The USB may have a file system error, a failed controller, a bad port, or physical damage. Try another port or computer first. If the drive stays undetected, software recovery is unlikely.
How long does USB flash drive recovery take?

Recovery time depends on USB capacity, scan mode, file count, and drive condition. Small flash drives may finish in minutes, while larger or heavily damaged volumes can take longer.