How to perform damaged SD card recovery effectively? This article will focus on how to recover data from logically & physically damaged SD cards with 6 feasible ways.
Modern electronic devices, from smartphones to digital cameras, rely heavily on SD cards—both full-sized and microSD cards—for storing important data. Whether it's photos, videos, or documents, SD cards are essential for the functionality of these devices.
However, like any storage medium, SD cards are susceptible to damage over time. This damage can be categorized into two main types: logical and physical.
Can you recover data from a damaged SD card? Yes, data recovery is possible, even from a damaged SD card.This article will primarily focus on how to recover data from logically damaged SD cards, but we will also touch on the process for recovering data from physically damaged SD cards.
When an SD card is damaged, it often shows clear signs that can help diagnose the issue. Below are common symptoms of SD card damage and possible solutions for each:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Files are missing | Use data recovery software to recover deleted or corrupted files from SD card. |
| SD card not detected | Try using a data recovery service or assign a new drive letter to the SD card. |
| Read/write errors | Use the CHKDSK tool or Windows Error Checking to repair file system errors. |
| Unknown files present | Scan and repair the SD card using the CHKDSK tool or Windows Error Checking. |
| Wrong capacity | Format the SD card to correct the capacity issue. |
| Visible physical damage | Seek professional data recovery services. |
If your SD card has logical damage, the first step is to try using specialized data recovery software. These tools scan the damaged card and recover lost files without further damage.
MyRecover is a great option for recovering data from damaged SD cards. It’s designed to work without modifying the original card, reducing the risk of permanent damage.
👍MyRecover - SD Card Recovery Software
With MyRecover, you can perform damaged SD card recovery easily.
Step 1. Launch the MyRecover software > connect the damaged SD card to your computer > choose USB/SD Card Recovery > hover the mouse over the drive and click Scan to scan.
Step 2. MyRecover will perform both a Quick Scan and a Deep Scan. Once completed, it displays all recoverable files.
Step 3. Navigate to the "More Missing Files" category > select "Videos" > choose the files you wish to recover.
🌟Tips:
Sometimes, SD cards are not detected due to a conflict between the SD card’s drive letter and your computer’s other drives. Assigning a new drive letter can help resolve this issue.
Step 1. Connect your SD card properly. Tab on Win+R to start the Run window. Input diskmgmt.msc in the dialog box and click OK.
Step 2. Locate your Corrupted SD card, right-click on it, and choose Change Drive Letter and Paths > Change > Assign the following drive letter (different from all the drive letters on your computer). Reconnect your SD card and check if it’s now accessible.
If your SD card cannot be read, the file system may be corrupted. You can then repair the corrupted SD card and use the CHKDSK command to access the SD card again. How to fix a damaged SD card that won't read?
Step 1. Connect your SD card to your PC. Input cmd or Command Prompt in the search bar beside the Start menu. Choose Run as administrator.
Step 2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command to check for file system errors: chkdsk F: /f (Replace F: with the letter corresponding to your SD card.)
If there is a problem with the file system of the SD card, the files will be inaccessible. Here, you can use the checking tool in Windows to check if there are any file system errors and fix unreadable SD card.
Step 1. Connect your SD card to the PC. Tab on Win+E to start This PC. Locate and right-click on your SD card, and click Properties. Go to Tools on the upper side of this panel. Then click Check.
Step 2. If there are errors detected, a prompt will come out, click Repair drive. After that, your drive will be successfully repaired.
Formatting your SD card can be helpful when you encounter a memory space error. It restores the SD card to its initial state and deletes all existing data. You can simply do this from Windows Explorer.
Step 1. Connect your damaged SD card to computer, and make sure it is recognizable. Right-click the damaged SD card under "This PC" in File Explorer.
Step 2. Be sure the "Quick Format" is checked. Then, click “OK”. Windows will perform a quick format by default. To perform a Full Format, simply uncheck this option.
If none of the above methods work and the SD card is severely damaged, it might be time to consult a professional data recovery service like Geek Squad. These services are specialized in recovering data from physically damaged or heavily corrupted cards.
While SD cards are generally reliable, they can still fail under certain circumstances. Follow these tips to prevent damage and avoid data loss in the future:
1️⃣ Always Safely Eject the SD Card: Don’t simply pull out the card. Use the "Eject" option on your device or computer to prevent file system corruption.
2️⃣ Protect the SD Card from Physical Damage: Store the card in a protective case to avoid bending, cracking, or moisture damage.
3️⃣ Avoid Overuse: Don’t constantly write and erase files from the SD card. SD cards have a limited number of write cycles, and overusing them can reduce their lifespan.
4️⃣ Back Up Your Data Regularly: Regularly back up your important data to other storage devices, like an external hard drive or cloud storage. You can use free Windows backup software - AOMEI Backupper Standard for a full disk backup.
5️⃣ Use High-Quality SD Cards: Invest in high-quality, durable SD cards from trusted brands like SanDisk or Kingston, which are less prone to failure.
Damage to an SD card doesn’t mean your files are gone forever. Whether it’s logical damage or physical destruction, there are methods available to recover lost data. From using SD card recovery software like MyRecover to seeking professional services for severe cases, data loss doesn’t have to be a permanent setback.
MyRecover is a powerful tool that makes the recovery process easier by scanning and retrieving lost data from SD cards. Why not download it today and see how it works?
1. How do I know if my SD card is logically or physically damaged?
Logical damage often results in file corruption or unreadable files, while physical damage involves cracks, water exposure, or bent pins. Try using the SD card on multiple devices to check.
2. What software can help me recover files from a corrupted SD card?
MyRecover is a great option for recovering files from a corrupted SD card. It can restore lost or deleted data from SD card.
3. Why is my SD card not showing up on my computer?
It could be due to a faulty card reader, driver issues, or connection problems. Try updating your drivers and using a different reader.
4. Can I fix a physically damaged SD card?
Physical damage is harder to fix, but you can try drying the card if it's water-damaged. For severe damage, professional repair services are required.