How we test

At 7datarecovery.com, we pride ourselves on being a trusted source of information for everything related to data recovery. Our data-driven approach and strict, unbiased editorial standards guarantee an unmatched level of quality. We’ve been hard at work, and our database of reviews will only continue to grow.

14

Reviews written
79

Tools tested
14

Devices used

Why Trust Us

We invest in the premium version of every data recovery tool we test. This guarantees that we can explore everything it has to offer, right down to the last detail. In doing so, we can give our readers a comprehensive, well-rounded evaluation of the tool so they can make an informed decision that’s backed by data.

Our only focus is on data recovery and the tools associated with it. Our deep expertise in the field allows us to provide valuable insights that go beyond just the surface level. We do not receive any commission from the tools we rate, nor do we modify our reviews or rankings if approached by their developers. This profound understanding of data recovery, coupled with our objective, integrity-focused editorial approach, ensures we’re a trusted go-to source of information.

Who Manages Our Tests

Our incredible technical team of data recovery specialists handles all of our testing. Our technical team takes a hands-on approach, actively testing the tools we cover by evaluating them using a strict, standardized review process that breaks down every aspect of the software into quantifiable data points. A standardized process allows us to evaluate each tool fairly and provide accurate comparisons. The data is then passed along to our editorial team, where one of our writers breaks down the information into an expertly crafted review that’s easy to read.

By having real-life data recovery experts run the tests directly, we can guarantee a level of quality that can’t be found anywhere else on the net. Not only does this help us remain a credible source of information, but it assures our readers that we know what we’re talking about. Learn more about our team behind the tests.

Our Testing Process

We have full confidence in the content we produce due largely in part to our rigorous, multi-step testing process. To best understand how we evaluate each tool, we’ll explain what we do at each step.

Step 1

First, we create a pool of data recovery tools that are suitable for our case, sourcing them from various platforms such as the web, forums, and social media. We then narrow down the list and identify the tools that’re best suited for an in-depth review.
Step 2

Once a tool has been selected, we create data recovery scenarios for the device we’re testing it on. By replicating common data loss scenarios, we can see how well the tool stands up in real-world situations. For example, for SD cards we simulate simple file deletion, formatting, and intentional file system corruption.
Step 3

We have some basic parameters that are applied to each data recovery test. In addition to these parameters, we also hand-pick some that we believe are relevant to the specific tool we’ve selected. By clearly outlining the parameters guiding our review, we can provide our readers with a transparent understanding of what areas we prioritized.
Step 4

This is where the testing phase begins. Our recovery expert takes a magnifying glass to the tool and picks apart its main characteristics and specifics. It’s at this stage where we simulate the loss of large datasets to see how well the tool recovers each file type. The tests are performed on multiple devices to eliminate the possibility of anomalies, further solidifying the results.
Step 5

With all of the data collected, we begin rating the tool. We mostly evaluate the tool based on our own opinions and experiences, though we do consider reviews on social media and forums, so long as we don’t suspect they’ve been manipulated. After taking into account how the tool performed in all areas of assessment, it’s then assigned a final score that reflects its overall performance.

What Parameters We Look At

While the specific criteria we use differ based on the topic, there are several parameters that we pay close attention to when evaluating a software tool. These parameters were chosen based on what we believe contributes to an all-round good user experience.

Data recovery results

The recovery of as much data as possible is the priority for any data recovery software. All other factors are significantly less important if the program fails to produce satisfactory results. Therefore, we critically analyze how much of our data was recovered, and give particular consideration to tools that can recover the original file names and structure intact.
Usability

Not everyone is a data recovery expert, and we realize that. Therefore, we measure how well the program is optimized for usability to reduce the chances that users will require external help. Easy navigation, intuitive layout, fast scan speeds, and localization are all factors that contribute to a pleasant user experience.
Trustworthiness

As with any application, it’s important to understand what access the application has to your personal information and files. To protect our users from unsolicited interference, we extensively review user reviews, the company’s history, and what processes the program runs in the background.
Additional features

Nowadays, it’s common for recovery tools to include additional features that complement data recovery, like hex editors, backup utilities, and file repair functionality. We examine what additional features the software comes with, shedding light on their utility and how they enhance the overall experience.
Pricing

Given that our readers seek data recovery software to address their specific needs, we take into consideration what the software is capable of and compare it to how much it costs to determine if it’s competitively priced.
Device compatibility

Device compatibility speaks to how versatile is in working with different storage devices, operating systems, and file systems. Good compatibility ensures the tool can be used for recovery in a range of data recovery scenarios.

By focusing on these critical parameters, we strive to offer our readers a well-rounded and fair assessment of every tool we offer. Consequently, we can ensure that the software they select not only meets their needs but also confirms their expectations.

Why Some Companies Don’t Make the Cut

Although we strive to review as many recovery tools available on the market, there are some that we choose not to review for one or several reasons. We may choose not to review software from a particular company for one of the following reasons.

Untrustworthy

Products from companies that we deem untrustworthy will not be considered for evaluation as they may exhibit unreliability in recovering data or handling sensitive information, posing a risk to our readers. In doing so, it would compromise our editorial integrity.
Outdated or incompatible

We prioritize data recovery tools that are up-to-date and receive ongoing support, as a lack of support or outdated functionality will lead to a lower rating. Nevertheless, we recognize that our readers with legacy systems may still need suitable tools, and we do occasionally review them for this reason.
Copies of other products

If a data recovery tool is a white-label product, we may find that it’s unnecessary to write a review on it if we already have a review of the original product.
Unsuitable for individuals

Data recovery solutions that target large enterprises may not be considered based on the different needs and requirements that businesses have in comparison to individuals

As part of our commitment to deliver reliable and insightful reviews, we exercise discretion in our selection process. This decision is rooted in the pursuit of providing our readers with relevant, trustworthy information. This safeguards the quality of our reviews and ensures our audience can confidently rely on our recommendations.

Updates

We regularly review the relevance of our content and update it when we feel the information is no longer up-to-date. If a software update is released for a tool that we have reviewed, we will evaluate the new version and update our review accordingly

We never alter our rating upon the request of the participants. However, we do accept suggestions from our community (although the eventual rating will depend on the test results). If you have a suggestion for one of our content pieces, please contact us at help@7datarecovery.com and share your thoughts.