Updated 23 May. 2023

Recover deleted MP3 on Mac OS & Windows

MP3 recovery

Best 5 data recovery software for MP3, MP3 Audio File

Disk Drill
Free version, Pro version $89
Free recovery: Free recovery - 500 MB for Windows
Download
rateDisk Drill
666762
Orion File Recovery
Subscription Plan $0.55/mo, Lifetime License (Home use $5.99, Commercial $6.99)
Free recovery: No free version
Download
rateOrion File Recovery
1176087
PhotoRec
Open Source
Free recovery: Freeware
Download
ratePhotoRec
152488
MiniTool
Free, Personal $79, Commercial $199, Enterprise $399, Technician $499
Free recovery: Free recovery - 1MB
Download
rateMiniTool
424233
Recoverit
Free, Professional $49.95, Ultimate $59.95, Technician $299.95
Free recovery: Free recovery - 100 MB
Download
rateRecoverit
308031

Summary review

windows icon Our Windows version Windows 11
time icon How long we tested 3 weeks
exam icon Number of tested tools 10

What to consider when choosing MP3 recovery software

Wide file type support

Whether it’s pictures, documents, audio, or file types, it’s a good idea to select a recovery program that supports the retrieval of a wide range of file extensions. Once you’re done recovering your files this time around, you may need to use the program again in the future for a different file type.

Look out for extra features

While a data recovery program’s retrieval capabilities are certainly its most important aspect, the extra features it brings to the table certainly add a lot of value. For example, some apps come with a drive backup feature while others allow the repair of compromised/damaged files, both of which can come in very handy.

Free version with data recovery

A lot of data recovery solutions out there offer a free trial that only gets you as far as previewing recoverable files. Once you attempt to retrieve them, you’ll get hit with a message asking you to purchase the full version. Check if the software has a free version that allows actual recovery.

Simple steps to recover deleted MP3, MP3 Audio File on Windows & Mac

Step 1:

Download and install the application on a Mac or Windows machine

Step 2:

Launch the software and select a disk on which to recover lost files

Step 3:

Select the Recover button in order to start scanning the disk for recoverable files

Step 4:

Preview the files that can be restored and click Recover to retrieve the data

3 best ways to prevent MP3 files loss

1 Tip

Install quality antivirus/antimalware software. Viruses and malware can wreak havoc on your computer and storage media and could lead to some serious loss of data. To prevent that, it’s always a good idea to install quality antivirus and antimalware software to counteract any malicious programs trying to infiltrate your machine.

2 Tip

Keep food and drink away from your work computer. This one goes without saying, but you’d be surprised by the number of people who keep food and drinks dangerously close to their laptop or computer. No matter how careful you are, uncontrollable circumstances may occur that could cause a spill onto your machine, potentially compromising your data.

3 Tip

Invest in a surge protector. A major power surge can do heavy damage to your computer. A strong enough one could fry the components in your computer, taking all of your important files along with it. So if you live in an area with unpredictable electric currents, spending some money on a surge protector can be a lifesaver.

FAQ

When MP3 files are deleted from a computer, they are not permanently erased just yet. So long as they’re not overwritten by new data, these files remain out of sight on the storage media and can be recovered through quality data recovery programs. Backup tools like File History, System Restore, and Timeline can also be used to recover lost data.

If you find that MP3 files are randomly being deleted from your computer, it’s a good indication that your hard drive is failing. In these cases, it’s a good idea to make a backup image of the drive to avoid further data loss. Another reason is that your computer has been infected by a virus or some form of malware.

For Windows, if you deleted the MP3 file using the Delete key or right-click > Delete command, then you should be able to find it in the Recycle Bin. On Mac, deleted X files are moved to the Trash before being deleted permanently. If your file is not present in either of these tools, you’ll need to utilize a free data recovery program.