What to do if your drive holds important data and has failed
Losing access to your files is stressful. This page explains your options and what to avoid so you give yourself the best chance of getting your data back.
What NOT to do
- Do not format or initialize the drive if Windows or macOS prompts you to. This can overwrite files that are still recoverable.
- Do not continue using the drive if it is making unusual noises (clicking, grinding) or if files are disappearing. Continued use can make recovery harder or impossible.
- Do not open the drive enclosure on a traditional hard drive (HDD). The internal platters are extremely sensitive to dust and handling.
Option 1: Data recovery software
If the drive is still partially recognized by your computer (appears in Device Manager or Disk Utility but files are inaccessible), recovery software may be able to retrieve your files. Reputable options include Recuva, R-Studio, and Disk Drill. These tools scan the drive for recoverable files without writing to it.
This works best when the drive is mechanically functional but has a logical issue (corrupted partition, accidentally deleted files, partial format).
Option 2: Professional data recovery
If the drive is not recognized at all, makes unusual noises, or recovery software cannot find your files, a professional data recovery service is the safest option. These services operate in clean-room environments and have specialized equipment for physically damaged drives.
Professional recovery can be expensive (often $300 to $1,500+ depending on the severity), but for irreplaceable data it may be worth it. Most reputable services offer a free evaluation and only charge if they recover your data.
Important notes about Sabrent warranty claims and data
- Back up before returning a drive for warranty replacement. Sabrent is not responsible for data on returned units. Any data on a drive sent in for RMA may be lost.
- If your drive is defective and holds important data, pursue data recovery before starting a warranty claim. Once the drive is returned to us, recovery is no longer possible.
- Our support team can help determine whether the issue is recoverable before you decide on next steps. Contact us and mention that the drive holds important data so we handle it carefully.
Prevention going forward
The best protection against data loss is a regular backup. Consider the 3-2-1 rule: keep 3 copies of important data, on 2 different types of storage, with 1 copy stored offsite or in the cloud.
Need help with a failing drive?
Contact our support team and let us know the drive holds important data. We will make sure every step we take is non-destructive and help you figure out the best path forward.