[Full Guide] Can You Recover Data from SD Card After Format?

When you google the topic "recover SD card after format", you will find a lot of relevant results. Other users are as eager to recover data from SD card as you are. Although accidentally formatting SD card can be very frustrating, there is usually a chance to recover the erased data.

In this guide, we will provide detailed tutorials to demonstrate how to recover formatted SD card on Windows and Mac, including professional data recovery software and built-in tools.

Can you recover data from SD card after format?

Yes, you can recover data from a formatted SD card.

SD cards don't delete all the data immediately after they are formatted, they hide them (their underlying files remain intact) and mark the storage space they occupy as free space. The formatted data is not deleted until new data is overwritten it.

Have you accidentally formatted your SD card and lost all your photos and other important data? Here we will explain the methods to recover formatted SD card from PC and macOS.

What caused the SD card to be formatted?

There are some reasons why SD cards are formatted. Though not always the case, here are some common causes:

✦ Operational errors. When dealing with multiple SD cards, you should double-check that you have selected the correct SD card before formatting it. Incompatible file systems. Formatting the SD card to be compatible with different storage devices and operating systems.

✦ Suddenly disconnecting the SD card. Disconnecting an SD card during a read or write process can severely damage the file system. This damage may look like it was formatted.

✦ Virus attacks. Malware sometimes targets storage devices, corrupting the file system or intentionally formatting the SD card.

✦ Digital cameras format SD cards. Some cameras and camcorders may automatically format the SD card.

However, formatting does not necessarily mean that the files are completely deleted. Next, you can perform format SD card recovery in some effective ways.

How to recover data from SD card after format on Windows PC

Is there any way to recover pictures from SD card after formatting? We cover 3 ways to rescue data from a formatted SD card, including FastRecovery, Windows File Recovery, and Backup.

▶ Method 1. Recover formatted SD card data with FastRecovery

FastRecovery is a powerful helper that can recover data on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and Windows Server. It is the leading data recovery tool on the market.

FastRecovery

Powerful Data Recovery Software

• With a high recovery rate, this tool applies a quick scan or deep scan to find and recover deleted files quickly.
• This SD card data recovery software can easily recover photos, videos, audio, documents, and other 1000+ types of files in just three steps.
• Organize and display data by Type or Path, allowing you to sort, search, filter, and preview files.
• Apply to different data loss scenarios, permanent deletion, disk formatting, partition lost, system crashes, etc.
• Provide a clear graphical user interface and simple operating steps.

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Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7& Windows Server

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Insert the SD card into your computer and make sure it can be recognized by the PC.

Step 1. Select a recovery option

Run Fast Recovery after installing. Then, click Partition Formatted Recovery. You can also choose a more suitable alternative, such as USB/SD Card Recovery, Partition Lost Recovery, etc. All of them can help you retrieve data without causing any damage.

Step 2. Scan the SD card

You'll see all the formatted partitions. Locate the SD card and click Scan to scan.

Step 3. Search for the target files

It will automatically run a Deep Scan to scan every sector of your SD card and display all the recoverable files. You can select files by Type (default) or Path, and combine them with options to sort, filter, search, and preview files. 

Step 4. Start SD card data recovery

Choose files you intend to take back, and then Recover to start data retrieval.

▶ Method 2. Recover data from formatted SD card via Windows File Recovery

Another way to recover data from a formatted SD card is to turn to a free Microsoft utility - Windows File History, a command-line application that runs on Windows 10 version 2004 and higher. It works with NTFS, ReFS, FAT, and exFAT file systems.

Since the tool runs through the command prompt, novice users may use it with incorrect command input, resulting in Windows file recovery not working and data not being recovered correctly. You can solve the "can you recover files after formatting SD card" problem using Windows File History by referring to the following steps.

Step 1. Open Microsoft Store in Windows, search for Windows File Recovery in the search box, and click on Get to download it on your computer.

Step 2. Click Yes to run Windows File Recovery and input the command line.

Step 3. After data recovery is finished, it will create a new folder named "Recovery_date and time" on your destination drive.

▶  Method 3. Recover data from SD card after format via File History

If you have backed up data on the SD card before, you can get back files by restoring the backup. Whether you have used Backup and Restore or File History to create a backup of your SD card files, the following guide is about how to recover formatted SD card without software but with backup files.

● Restore backups from Backup and Restore

Step 1. Tap on Start > Settings > Update and Security > Backup in turn, and click Go to Backup and Restore (Windows 7).

Step 2. Choose Restore my files and select the right backup version to recover data.

● Restore backups from File History

Step 1. Go to Control Panel > System and Security > File History.

Step 2. Click on the Restore personal files button on the left panel and select files you want to recover.

Step 3. Finally, hit the Restore position.

How to restore deleted files from SD card using PhotoRec on MacOS

PhotoRec is a command line data recovery software for Mac users to recover deleted files from memory card. It supports recover more than 400 types of files, from photos, videos, and archives to documents.

Step 1. Insert your SD card with deleted files. Download and install PhotoRec on your Mac. Then, launch it with Terminal. It requires you to enter the Mac password.

Step 2. Select the SD card where you want to recover deleted files and press Enter.

Step 3. Then, you will be asked to select partition type and file system. Remember to Press Enter each time.

Step 4. Select the output folder to save the recovered files from SD card. Then, press C to recover deleted files from memory card on Mac.

Step 5. Navigate to the output folder and check if all the deleted files are recovered successfully.

Tips to avoid SD card being formatted

Dealing with an unexpected SD card format can be a vexing experience, requiring time-consuming data recovery, error checks, and reformatting. To avoid this inconvenience, take proactive steps to safeguard your precious data.

• Ensure Safe Removal: Never hastily yank your SD card from any device. Instead, opt for the safe ejection method or power down the device to detach it securely.
• Maintain Power Levels: Keep your host device, such as a camera, fully charged. Avoid using the SD card until the device's battery is nearly depleted to prevent abrupt shutdowns.
• Resist Impromptu Formatting: Refrain from formatting your SD card if prompted by a device, especially if it functions correctly in another like your PC. Prioritize content backup before any formatting decision.
• Fortify PC Security: On your computer, bolster your defense with reliable antivirus and firewall software to safeguard against malicious threats. Exercise caution when dealing with unverified applications from dubious sources, as they may pose risks to your storage devices.
• Shield from Harsh Elements: Shield your SD card from the elements. Avoid exposing it to heat, dust, or moisture, as these can be detrimental to its integrity.
• Opt for Protective Cases: Store your SD card in dedicated carrying cases. Avoid haphazardly tossing it into your pocket alongside items like keys and coins, which could lead to scratches, chips, or bends.
• Recognize Signs of Wear: If you notice visible wear, your SD card is aging or has previously experienced formatting issues, consider replacing it to maintain data integrity.

The bottom line

Can you recover data from SD card after format? As mentioned above, you can use different methods to rescue data from your formatted SD card. You can choose the appropriate option according to your situation.

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