Updated 11 May. 2023

Recover Deleted or Lost CUE files on Windows & Mac

CUE recovery

Best 5 data recovery software for CUE, Cue Sheet File

Disk Drill
Free version, Pro version $89
Free recovery: Free recovery - 500 MB for Windows
Download
rateDisk Drill
666762
Fireebok Data Recovery
$49.95
Free recovery: Free scan
Download
rateFireebok Data Recovery
33606
M3 Data Recovery
Free, Home edition $69.95, Professional edition $99.95, Technician edition $299
Free recovery: Free recovery - 1GB
Download
rateM3 Data Recovery
22436
Softtote
$69.99
Free recovery: Free scan & preview
Download
rateSofttote
225
R-STUDIO
for Mac $79.99, for Mac Network $179.99, Technician $899.00
Free recovery: No free version
Download
rateR-STUDIO
57624

Summary review

windows icon Our Windows version Windows 10
time icon How long we tested 3 weeks
exam icon Number of tested tools 19

3 important things to consider when choosing CUE recovery software

Scanning Speed

Just like how not all data recovery programs aren’t created equally in terms of retrieval rates, they also differ in the speeds at which they’re able to scan storage media, whether it’s a regular or deep scan. If it’s a big deal to you, you should look into how quickly the program can get through a recovery session.

Ease of use

Not everybody is tech-savvy and knows their way around a command prompt or advanced menus. Choose a data recovery program that has a user interface and flow that fits your technical expertise. That way, you’ll be able to recover your files with minimal hassle. Some apps are even designed to accommodate both novice and expert users.

Price tag

While there are a few genuinely free data recovery programs out there and some with a decent trial version, they’re often either overly complex, ineffective, or have recovery limits. So if you’re willing to invest, you should find a program that fits your price range. Also, consider whether you’d prefer a program with subscriptions or a one-time payment.

Simple steps to recover deleted CUE, Cue Sheet File on Windows & Mac

Step 1:

Download the application to either a Mac or WIndows machine and install it

Step 2:

Fire up the application and point it at the disk where the files were lost

Step 3:

Use the Recover button to start searching for lost data

Step 4:

Click Recover a second time to get back your selected files

How can CUE loss be prevented - 3 tips

1 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.

2 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.

3 Tip

Back up files regularly. While backing up files can sometimes be time-consuming and a hassle, it’s a vital part of keeping important files safe from unforeseen data loss. After all, you can never tell when you might accidentally delete a file or encounter device failure. One missed backup session could set you back hours, days, or even months of work.

FAQ

For CUE files that were accidentally deleted using the Delete key or right-click > Delete command, they should be available for restoration from the Windows Recycle Bin tool. Other forms of data loss may be recovered using the File History feature, provided it was enabled beforehand. Otherwise, you’ll need a quality data recovery program.

For Windows, if you deleted the CUE 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.

When CUE 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.