How to Recover Lost Data from a Memory Stick? [4 Solutions]

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Losing important files from a memory stick can be frustrating and stressful. Whether it's personal documents, work files, or precious photos, data loss can happen for various reasons. Fortunately, data recovery is possible if you act quickly and use the right methods.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the common causes of data loss, precautionary steps to take, and various recovery methods, including built-in system tools, specialized software, and professional recovery services.

Primary Causes of Data Loss on Memory Sticks

Here are the most common reasons:

1. Unintentional Deletion

It is common to mistakenly delete files while managing storage. If you delete a file from the memory stick, it usually does not go to the Recycle Bin, making recovery more challenging.

2. File System Corruption

A memory stick may become corrupted due to an interrupted file transfer, improper ejection, or sudden power loss. Corruption may make the memory stick unreadable or prevent access to stored data.

3. Virus or Malware Attacks

Viruses or malware can delete, hide, or corrupt files. Some malicious programs may even render the entire storage device unusable.

4. Physical Damage

Dropping, bending, or exposing a memory stick to extreme temperatures can physically damage the internal circuits, making it difficult to retrieve stored data.

5. Formatting the Memory Stick

Formatting erases all data, and while quick formatting allows recovery in some cases, full formatting can make recovery nearly impossible without specialized services.

Precautionary Steps Before Recovery

Before attempting data recovery, follow these steps to maximize the chances of restoring lost files:

1. Stop Using the Memory Stick – Recovery may become more challenging if lost data is overwritten by continued use.
2. Check for Backups – If you have backed up your data on cloud storage or another device, restoration will be easy.
3. Try a Different USB Port or Device – Sometimes, the problem lies with the computer rather than the memory stick.
4. Scan for Viruses – If malware is hiding or corrupting files, running an antivirus scan can help restore access.

4 Solutions to Recover Lost Data from a Memory Stick

Several methods can help retrieve lost data from a memory stick. The best approach depends on the nature of the data loss.

Solution 1. Use Built-in Recovery Features for Memory Stick Recovery

1. Checking the Recycle Bin

If you transferred files from the memory stick to your computer before deletion, they might be in the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac).

Steps to Recover Files from the Recycle Bin (Windows):

1. From the desktop, open the Recycle Bin.
2. Look for the file that was erased.
3. To restore the file, right-click on it and choose "Restore."

Steps to Recover Files from Trash (Mac):

1. From the dock, open the trash.
2. Find the misplaced file.
3. Use the right-click menu to choose "Put Back."

2. Using File History (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)

You can retrieve earlier iterations of lost files if you had Time Machine or file history enabled.

Steps for Windows File History Recovery:

1. First, open the folder containing the file.
2. After doing a right-click, choose "Restore previous versions."
3. After selecting a version, select "Restore."

Steps for Mac Time Machine Recovery:

1. Attach the backup drive for your time machine.
2. Access the folder containing the misplaced file.
3. To recover the file, use the Time Machine interface.

Solution 2. Recover Data from Memory Stick With Data Recovery Software

Data recovery software are the programs which use advanced algorithms to scan storage devices and recover lost data. Below, we provide a more detailed guide on how memory stick data recovery software works, factors to consider when choosing software, and step-by-step instructions for popular recovery tools.

How Data Recovery Software Works:

They work by scanning the device for traces of deleted or lost files and attempting to reconstruct them.

There are two main types of scans used by recovery software:

1. Quick Scan – Searches for recently deleted files by looking at the file directory structure. This is fast but may not recover files lost due to formatting or corruption.
2. Deep Scan – Examines the entire memory stick sector by sector, attempting to recover fragmented or partially overwritten files. This takes longer but has a higher success rate.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Recovery Software for Memory Stick:

Not all data recovery software is equal. When choosing the best tool for your purposes, keep the following points in mind:

• Compatibility – Ensure the software supports your operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux) and file system (FAT32, exFAT, NTFS, etc.).
• Recovery Capabilities – Check if the tool can recover different file types (documents, photos, videos, etc.) and handle different data loss scenarios (accidental deletion, corruption, formatting).
• Ease of Use – Some programs have a user-friendly interface, while others require technical expertise.
• Price – Free versions may have limitations, such as a recovery cap or fewer features. Premium versions often provide deeper scans and better recovery success rates.
• Reputation and Reviews – Choose well-reviewed software from trusted developers to avoid malware or ineffective tools.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Popular Data Recovery Software:

Donemax Data Recovery is a great tool for memory stick data recovery. It takes only a few clicks to get the lost files back.

Step 1. Click Download button below to download and install Donemax Data Recovery on your computer.

Step 2. Connect the memory stick to your computer and open Donemax Data Recovery. Select the memory stick to begin data recovery.

Step 3. Click on Scan button to deeply scan the memory stick and find all recoverable files.

Step 4. After scan, you can preview all recoverable files. Then select the wanted files, click on Recover button.

More data recovery software options for memory stick data recovery:

1. Recuva (Windows - Free & Paid Versions)

Recuva is a lightweight and easy-to-use tool ideal for recovering deleted files.

Steps to Recover Data Using Recuva:

1. Download and Install Recuva
   • Visit the official website and download the software.
   • Install it on your PC (do NOT install it on the memory stick to avoid overwriting lost files).
2. Launch Recuva and Select the File Type
   • Open Recuva and choose the file type you want to recover (documents, pictures, videos, etc.), or select "All Files" for a comprehensive search.
3. Choose the Memory Stick as the Target Location
   • Select your memory stick from the list of available drives.
4. Run the Scan
   • Start with a Quick Scan. If the file isn’t found, run a Deep Scan.
5. Select and Recover Files
   • After scanning, Recuva will display a list of recoverable files.
   • Select the files you want to restore and save them to a different location (not the same memory stick).

2. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (Windows & Mac - Free & Paid Versions)

EaseUS is a powerful and user-friendly recovery tool that supports various file formats and data loss scenarios.

Steps to Recover Data Using EaseUS:

1. Download and Install EaseUS
   • Install the software on your computer (not the affected memory stick).
2. Select the Memory Stick for Scanning
   • Open EaseUS and select the USB drive from the list of available storage devices.
3. Scan for Lost Files
   • Start with a Quick Scan; if results are unsatisfactory, run a Deep Scan.
4. Preview and Recover Files
   • The software allows you to preview recoverable files before restoring them.
   • Select the files and save them to a secure location.

3. Disk Drill (Windows & Mac - Free & Paid Versions)

Disk Drill is another excellent tool with an intuitive interface and robust scanning capabilities.

Steps to Recover Data Using Disk Drill:

1. Download and Install Disk Drill
   • Install it on a safe drive (not the memory stick).
2. Choose the Memory Stick and Start Scanning
   • Open Disk Drill, select your USB drive, and click "Search for lost data."
3. Use Different Scan Modes
   • The software will offer Quick Scan, Deep Scan, and Partition Recovery options.
4. Preview and Recover Files
   • Once scanning is complete, preview the recoverable files and restore them to another location.

What to Do If Recovery Software Fails?

If none of the software tools recover your files, consider these additional options:

• Try a Different Recovery Tool – Some tools are better suited for certain types of data loss.
• Check for a Previous Backup – Cloud storage or external backups may have copies of your lost files.
• Use a Professional Data Recovery Service – If your data is highly valuable, a professional recovery lab can help.

Solution 3. Use Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac/Linux) to Repair the Memory Stick

If software solutions don't work, you can attempt manual recovery using system commands.

1. Using CHKDSK (Windows) to Fix Errors

If the memory stick is corrupted, CHKDSK can fix file system errors.

Steps:

1. Attach the memory stick to the computer.
2. Launch the Administrator Command Prompt.
3. Type: chkdsk X: /f (Substitute the memory stick's drive letter for "X").

4. Press Enter and let Windows repair errors.

2. Using TestDisk (Mac/Linux) for Recovery

It is a powerful open-source tool for recovering lost partitions and files.

Steps:

1. Install TestDisk (sudo apt install testdisk for Linux, download for Mac).
2. Open Terminal and run: sudo testdisk.
3. Select the memory stick and choose "Analyze."
4. Follow the instructions to recover lost partitions or files.

Solution 4. Seeking Professional Data Recovery Services

If software and manual recovery methods fail, professional services may be necessary.

When to Use Professional Services?

• Severe physical damage (cracked, burnt, or broken USB).
• Extensive corruption that software cannot fix.
• Business-critical or sentimental data recovery.

Estimated Costs

• Basic recovery: $50–$150
• Advanced recovery (physical damage): $300–$1,500+

Some well-known recovery services include:

• Ontrack Data Recovery
• DriveSavers
• CleverFiles Data Recovery Center

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Data Loss on Memory Stick

To reduce the risk of losing data from a memory stick, follow these best practices:

1. Regularly Back Up Important Files
   • Use cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox).
   • Maintain local backups on external hard drives.
2. Use Reliable Antivirus Software
   • Keep your system protected against malware that can delete or corrupt files.
3. Properly Eject Memory Sticks
   • Always use "Safely Remove Hardware" before unplugging.
4. Avoid Sudden Removal During File Transfers
   • Disconnecting a memory stick during data transfer can corrupt files.
5. Handle Memory Sticks with Care
   • Avoid exposing them to water, extreme heat, or physical stress.

Conclusion

Losing data from a memory stick can be a stressful experience, but recovery is often possible with the right approach. Whether using built-in system tools, recovery software, or professional services, acting quickly can improve the chances of restoring lost files.

To prevent future data loss, practice good storage habits- regular backups, proper ejection, and using antivirus protection. By taking these precautions, you can ensure your data remains safe and recoverable in case of an emergency.

If you've recently lost data, follow the steps outlined above and choose the best recovery method based on your situation. With the right tools and methods, you can successfully retrieve your important files.