[3 Methods] Recover Images and Videos from a Corrupted SD Card on Windows or macOS

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SD cards are one of the most common storage devices used various electronic devices. They provide portable and efficient storage, making it easy to carry large amounts of data, such as photos and videos. However, like any electronic device, SD cards are not immune to failure. A corrupted SD card can be a source of panic, especially when precious images and videos are involved.

In this article, we will explore how SD cards get corrupted, signs of corruption, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to recover your images and videos. By the end, you'll understand what causes corruption, how to attempt recovery yourself, and when it might be necessary to seek professional assistance.

Common Causes of SD Card Corruption

Understanding why an SD card gets corrupted is key to preventing data loss in the future. Several factors contribute to corruption, including both software and hardware issues. Below are the most common causes of SD card corruption:

▪️ Power Failure or Improper Ejection

One of the most common causes of SD card corruption is a power failure or improper removal of the card while data is being written. For example, if you remove an SD card from a device (camera, smartphone, or computer) before it has fully saved your data, the files being written may become corrupted. This is especially common when the device is abruptly turned off while the card is in use.

▪️ Virus or Malware Infection

Like any digital storage device, SD cards are vulnerable to viruses or malware. When the card is connected to an infected computer or device, harmful software can corrupt or damage files stored on the card. This is why it's important to always scan your SD card for malware before using it on multiple devices.

▪️ File System Errors or Formatting Mistakes

File system corruption can occur when the SD card's file structure is damaged. This might happen when files are saved incorrectly, there's a sudden loss of power, or the card is accidentally formatted. Formatting an SD card removes all data, and if done incorrectly, it can lead to file system corruption, making the data inaccessible.

▪️ Physical Damage

SD cards can go through physical damage due to exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, or excessive force. Water damage, for example, can easily render an SD card unreadable. Additionally, if the SD card has been dropped or crushed, physical damage may prevent proper reading and writing of data, resulting in corruption.

Symptoms of a Corrupted SD Card

Before attempting recovery, it's important to identify the symptoms of a corrupted SD card. Common indicators of SD card corruption include:

▪️ Files Not Showing Up or Being Inaccessible

When an SD card becomes corrupted, the files stored on it may not be visible to your device. If you open the SD card in File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac), you may find the files missing, or the SD card may appear empty, even if there are files on it.

▪️ Error Messages

When attempting to access files on a corrupted SD card, you may encounter error messages such as:

• "Card not formatted."
• "The SD card is unreadable."
• "The device cannot access the SD card."
• "The file is corrupt or cannot be opened."

These messages often indicate corruption or file system issues.

▪️ Slow Performance or Freezing

In some cases, you may still be able to access the SD card, but the performance may be extremely slow, or the device may freeze when trying to open or transfer files. These symptoms can be signs of underlying corruption.

▪️ Unable to View or Open Images/Videos

If the SD card is corrupted, you may be able to see files listed, but when you try to open an image or video, the file may not open or may show a corrupted version of the file. This is particularly distressing when the files are important images or videos that you were counting on.

Top 3 Methods for Recovering Images/Videos from a Corrupted SD Card

There are several methods you can attempt to recover images and videos from a corrupted SD card. The process can range from using built-in system tools to employing specialized data recovery software. Below are the most common methods for recovery:

Method 1. Use Built-In System Tools to Repair the SD Card

Both Windows and macOS come with built-in tools that can help recover files from a corrupted SD card. While these tools are not as comprehensive as third-party recovery software, they can work in many cases of minor corruption.

Windows: Check Disk Tool (chkdsk)

Windows includes the Check Disk (chkdsk) tool, which can scan the SD card for file system errors and attempt to fix them. Here's how to use it:

Step 1. Insert the corrupted SD card into your computer.

Step 2. Type "cmd" into the Start menu to launch the Command Prompt, then choose "Run as Administrator."

Step 3. Type the following command: chkdsk X: /f (replace "X" with the drive letter of your SD card).

Step 4. Hit Enter. The program will start looking for problems on the SD card and try to resolve them. If it works, you might be able to access your photos and videos again.

Mac: Disk Utility and First Aid Feature

Mac users can use the built-in Disk Utility app to repair an SD card:

Step 1. Connect the Mac to the SD card.

Step 2. From the Applications > Utilities folder, launch Disk Utility.

Step 3. From the list on the left, pick the SD card.

Step 4. Click the "First Aid" button and follow the prompts to repair the card.

Step 5. If the process is successful, the SD card may become accessible again.

Method 2. Recovery Corrupted SD Card with Data Recovery Software

If built-in system tools do not work, third-party recovery software is often your best bet. Donemax Data Recovery is one of the best SD card recovery programs. It supports to recover lost images/videos from any corrupted SD card.

Step 1. Download and install Donemax Data Recovery on your computer and insert the corrupted SD card into the computer.

Open Donemax Data Recovery, select the corrupted SD card to start data recovery.

Step 2. Click on Scan button to deeply scan the corrupted SD card and find all recoverable files such as inaccessible or lost videos/images.

Step 3. After deep scan, you can preview the recoverable file images/videos. Then select the wanted ones, click on Recover button to save them.

After recovering images/videos from the corrupted SD card, you can use Donemax Data Recovery or other tools to fix it.

🔗 Related link: how to fix corrupted SD card?

Method 3. Professional SD Card Data Recovery Services

In extreme cases where you are unable to recover your data using the methods above, expert data recovery services may be your last resort. These businesses can recover data from physically damaged or highly corrupted SD cards since they have specialized instruments and cleanroom facilities. However, this option can be expensive, with recovery costs ranging from $100 to $1,000 or more, depending on the severity of the issue.

When to Seek Expert Help:

• If the SD card is physically damaged (e.g., water, fire, or extreme temperature exposure).
• If you've tried all software solutions and the data is still inaccessible.
• If you're dealing with highly valuable or irreplaceable files (such as important work or memories).

Prevent Future SD Card Corruption and Data Loss

Once you've recovered your files, it's important to take steps to prevent SD card corruption in the future. Here are some tips for prolonging the life of your SD card and avoiding data loss:

• Properly Ejecting the Card: Before taking your SD card out of a device, make sure you eject it carefully. This prevents files from being in the middle of writing and reduces the risk of corruption. Most operating systems provide a "Safely Remove Hardware" option for this purpose.
• Avoiding Physical Damage: To avoid physical harm, store your SD card in a dry, secure location. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, moisture, or any kind of mechanical stress. Use protective cases if necessary.
• Regular Backups: One of the best ways to avoid data loss is by regularly backing up your images and videos. Use cloud storage services like Google Photos, Dropbox, or iCloud to store copies of important files. Alternatively, use an external hard drive or another SD card for local backups.
• Using Reliable SD Cards: Not all SD cards are created equal. Invest in high-quality, durable SD cards from reputable manufacturers. Look for SD cards with high read/write speeds and ones that offer built-in error correction to minimize the risk of corruption.

Conclusion

Losing images and videos from a corrupted SD card can be a stressful experience, but there are numerous ways to recover your precious data. By complying the steps described in this article, from using built-in system tools to relying on third-party recovery software, you can often recover image and video files from a corrupted SD card. Additionally, taking proactive measures, such as using reliable cards, performing regular backups, and avoiding physical damage, can help you minimize the risk of future corruption. If all else fails, professional data recovery services offer a last resort for recovering important files.