Once you decide to proceed with software-based recovery ... make sure you get the free version with up to 2GB recovery and not the trial version of the pro program. If you get the trial version ...

I’ve reviewed the best data recovery software you can buy, which often require a costly subscription. However, there are some very good free apps that can help restore your missing files or photos.

Users can download the software and assign full drive access, with a trial offering up to 1GB of data recovery for free. The company charges $19 per individual for non-licensed data retrieval ...