Forum Discussion
Looking for a best alternative to disk drill for data recovery, any recommendations?
- Jan 14, 2025
I tried Disk Drill app in the past but it couldn't find the deleted word documents and photos. Fortunately, I am able to recover the deleted by following the steps in this tutorial: https://www.cnetie.com/best-alternative-to-disk-drill
You can give a try!
Windows File Recovery is a great alternative to Disk Drive on Windows 11. It is a powerful, free data recovery tool developed by Microsoft, designed to help users recover lost or deleted files on Windows operating systems. Introduced in March 2020, it serves as a robust alternative to third-party data recovery solutions like Disk Drill, especially for users seeking a cost-effective and reliable method to retrieve their lost data without relying on external software vendors. Unlike traditional graphical user interface (GUI) data recovery tools, Windows File Recovery operates through the Command Prompt, offering advanced users granular control over the recovery process.
Why is Windows File Recovery a Great Alternative to Disk Drill?
- Unlike Disk Drill, which offers both free and paid versions with varying feature sets, Windows File Recovery is entirely free. This eliminates the financial barrier for users needing basic to intermediate data recovery.
- As a Microsoft-developed tool, it integrates seamlessly with the Windows operating system, ensuring better compatibility and stability.
- Reduces the risk of software conflicts and maintains system integrity.
- Provides multiple recovery modes tailored to different data loss situations, similar to or exceeding what Disk Drill offers.
- Capable of recovering fragmented files, which is crucial for comprehensive data retrieval.
How to Use Windows File Recovery:
Using Windows File Recovery requires familiarity with the Command Prompt and understanding of command-line operations. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the tool effectively.
Press Win + X and select "Windows Terminal (Admin)" or "Command Prompt (Admin)". In the Command Prompt window, type winfr followed by necessary parameters and press Enter.
winfr source-drive: destination-folder [/mode] [/switches]
- source-drive: The drive letter where the lost files were located (e.g., C:, D:).
- destination-folder: The folder where recovered files will be saved. Note: Must be on a different drive than the source to prevent overwriting data.
- /mode: Specifies the recovery mode (Regular, Extensive, Segment).
- /switches: Additional options to refine the recovery process (e.g., specifying file types).
Windows File Recovery stands out as a robust, free alternative to third-party data recovery tools like Disk Drill, especially for users who are technically adept and seeking a cost-effective solution. Its integration with the Windows operating system ensures reliable performance and compatibility