For users in the USA comparing free file recovery software, separate the ability to download, scan, preview and export. A free scan may help you find candidates, but it does not by itself show whether a complete file can be saved and opened.
Use the free allowance to test meaningful samples
Start with the files that matter most, such as a critical spreadsheet, a small set of photographs or one representative document from each affected folder. Record which samples open correctly and where they were saved. A large result count can include duplicates or incomplete files.
XRecovery’s confirmed free recovery allowance is 2GB in total. It supports previews for some mainstream document, image and video formats, not every result. If a format has no preview, do not automatically label it unrecoverable; export an eligible sample and inspect it with the appropriate application.
Evaluate XRecovery before exporting everything
XRecovery 3.1.6 runs on Windows and can scan partitions, disks and external devices that Windows recognises. The ordinary scan starts with a quick scan and then proceeds automatically to a deep scan. Preview is available for some mainstream file formats; it is not a complete compatibility test for every result.
The confirmed free recovery allowance is 2GB in total. Use it to check representative files before deciding whether more recovery is worthwhile. File names, thumbnails and scan counts alone are not proof of complete recovery.
Scan, save and verify
- Preserve the source and prepare a different physical device for recovered files. Check backups first, and avoid formatting or repair writes while the missing files are needed.
- Select the intended source by its capacity and identity. Stop if it becomes unstable; scanning software cannot fix physical damage.
- Review available results and previews. Save selected files to the separate destination, then open them with their usual applications and check the important contents.
XRecovery scanning is read-only, but exporting writes data to the destination. Its default warning against saving to the scanned partition can be overridden, so keep the destination separate yourself. No software can guarantee recovery of data that is no longer readable.
Does free download mean unlimited free export?
No. Check each product’s current export allowance and licence conditions. For XRecovery, use the confirmed total 2GB allowance rather than assuming an unlimited or recurring quota.
Before choosing a download or licence
Use the official product information to check the current package, requirements and terms. For users in the USA, also check that the available interface and support arrangements fit your needs; this article does not establish a separate local edition or local service coverage.