Formatting your memory card is, in a way, a clear reset of the card, in the process of which files stored on it get removed from the file system table. Result? Your operating system can’t detect the files. They are not completely erased, though. As long as they are not overwritten, the recovery is possible.
Want to learn more? Check the three practical solutions below (macOS and Windows-friendly).
Contents
SD card formatting: the basics
- Solution 1: How to recover a formatted SD card on Mac
- Solution 2: How to recover a formatted SD card on PC
- Solution 3: How to recover a formatted SD card (data recovery apps)
When to consult professionals
Conclusion
FAQ
SD Card Formatting: The Basics
SD card reformatting doesn’t delete files (at first), but the file system. It’s typically done to create a new one. SD card formatting doesn’t immediately delete the files stored on the drive. The space they occupy is recognized as available for overwriting new data.
In simpler words, after formatting your memory card, the files are not gone yet. Until they get overwritten, you can still access them and retrieve the data.
- Stop using the card the moment you realize that data loss has occurred.
- Do not add any new files to the SD card.
- Use a card reader to ensure your system recognizes the card.
Important! The easiest way to restore your data is to use available backups (if they exist). The steps below can be used in situations when users don’t have fresh backups.
1. How to Recover a Formatted SD Card on Mac
You can attempt to recover your SD card with the help of PhotoRec. It is a completely free tool. You run it through Terminal, so it requires a user to have experience working with a command-line interface.
- Connect the SD card to your Mac.
- Launch Terminal.
- Insert:
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/master/install.sh)"- Enter the admin password when asked.
- Run the following commands:
brew install testdisk sudo photorec- Use arrows on your keyboard for further navigation.
- Choose the card and the partition you want to recover.
- Select the type of file system of the SD card.
- Choose the location where the files should be retrieved.
- Press Return/ Enter.
2. How to Recover a Formatted SD Card on PC
Windows also allows users to recover an SD card through CMD. Windows File Recovery from the Microsoft Store serves this purpose.
- Install Windows File Recovery on your PC.
- Launch the app and connect the SD card.
- Run CMD as administrator.
- Insert the command:
winfr source-drive: destination-drive: [/mode] /Extensive e.g. “winfr H:D:\test /extensive”- The command will recover the files and restore them to the designated location.
- Access the files.
3. How to Recover a Formatted SD Card with Data Recovery Software
Terminal and CMD commands require a certain level of expertise (or at least confidence). So, some users find such paths too complicated. Third-party tools provide a more user-friendly environment.
Third-party data recovery software often uses this algorithm:
- Install the app.
- Choose the drive you want to scan.
- Run the scan to identify recoverable items.
- Preview the files you want to restore.
- Restore the lost files.
Here’s a brief review of some popular software solutions (compatible with macOS and Windows).
| Application | Free Recovery Limits | Advantages |
| Stellar Data Recovery | 1 GB | More than 300 supported formats, photo and video recovery, and custom scan. |
| Disk Drill | 500 MB (Windows), preview (macOS) | Intuitive, user-friendly interface, high recovery rate. |
| R-Studio | 256 KB (demo) | Pro RAID/forensics, top NTFS/APFS |
| Wondershare Recoverit | Trial previews | Solid recovery rates, create bootable drives on crashed PCs, and perform photo and video recovery. |
When to Consult Professionals
The DIY methods we’ve described have their limitations. Sometimes, successful data recovery isn’t possible without extra help from professionals.
You may look into the options of professional data recovery if:
- DIY tools failed.
- The SD card is physically damaged.
- High-value data has been lost.
Pro Tip: Opt for recovery centers with “no-data-no-fee” policies.
Summing Up
Formatting your SD card can lead to data loss if the files get overwritten. It’s essential to act quickly and try one of the recovery solutions described above. Users experienced in working with command lines can recover the data with Windows-native or free, open-source tools. Alternatively, you can use data recovery software (free or paid options) and contact professional service centers.
FAQ
One option to consider is PhotoRec. The tool is compatible with different operating systems (macOS, Windows, and Linux). Mind, the successful recovery is possible only if the data isn’t overwritten.
You can use apps designed for Android (available on the Play Store) or iPhone (limited, mostly paid options). The chances of retrieving data from a formatted memory card without a computer are lower. This is due to the shallow nature of mobile app scans.
Your choice should depend on the amount of data in question. Also, take into account your budget. Choose Stellar Data Recovery to access free recovery options (1 GB). Also, it supports multiple file formats and demonstrates solid success rates.
Formatting itself doesn’t affect SD card performance. Potential factors of SD card issues are physical damage, detection issues, bad sectors, and file system corruption.
