Looking for the best Sony SD card data recovery method? Discover how to retrieve deleted or lost files from your Sony SD card using reliable, user-friendly tools that work for photos, videos, and documents—whether your card was formatted, corrupted, or damaged.
So, you’ve just pulled out your Sony SD card and realized—wait a second—your files are missing. Panic sets in. Been there? You're not alone. Whether it’s your vacation photos, client videos, or a semester’s worth of research, losing data from your SD card can be devastating.
Common Causes of Data Loss
Let’s face it: technology is awesome, but not always foolproof. Some of the most common reasons you might lose data from your Sony SD card include:
Help with Data Recovery after Formatting SanDisk SD Card (Sony Alpha 7 III)
I accidentally formatted the SD card of my Sony Alpha 7 III camera and did not save the pictures stored on it. I have already tried various data recovery software programs like Disk Drill, but without success. It seems that Sony uses a special deep-cleaning method for the SD card, which makes recovery almost impossible.
Is there still any way or hope to retrieve the pictures? The SD card has not been used since the formatting, so no new data has been overwritten.
Thank you in advance for your help!
- Question from Reddit
Yes! Unless the card is physically broken beyond repair, there’s a great chance your data is still there, just invisible to the system. With the right method, you can get back everything from photos and videos to documents and audio files.
You need to do first:
Stop Using the Card Immediately
As soon as you notice the data is missing—stop using the card. Continuing to use it could overwrite the lost files, making them impossible to recover.
Don’t Try Random Fixes
Avoid the temptation to format or run random "clean-up" tools. Some fixes may do more harm than good. Instead, follow a proven method like the ones below.
Now, I’ll walk you through the top 3 proven ways to recover your data.
If you want the fastest, easiest, and most effective solution, MyRecover is your best bet.
Why Choose MyRecover?
Step 1: Download and Install MyRecover
Head over to the official MyRecover website and install the software on your computer (Windows supported).
Step 2: Scan the Sony SD Card
Insert your SD card into the PC. Open MyRecover and select the SD card from the list of available drives, then click "Scan".
Step 3: Preview and Recover Data
Once the scan completes, preview the files you want to recover, select them, and hit "Recover". That’s it! Your files will be saved to a safe location.
💡 Pro tip: Avoid saving recovered files back to the same SD card to prevent overwriting data.
If you're a bit tech-savvy, the Command Prompt (CMD) on Windows can help recover hidden or lost files due to logical errors.
This method is totally free—but a bit less user-friendly than using software.
1. Plug your Sony SD card into the computer.
2. Open Command Prompt (as Administrator).
3. Type: chkdsk E: /f (Replace E: with your SD card’s drive letter)
4. After it scans, type: attrib -h -r -s /s /d E:\*.*
This can recover files that were hidden or lost due to corruption, but it won’t work if the card is formatted or severely damaged.
Did you know Sony has its own free recovery tool? It’s called Memory Card File Rescue, and it’s made just for Sony SD cards and Memory Sticks. This tool helps you recover deleted photos and videos, including JPEGs, RAW files, and some video formats like AVCHD and MOV.
🔍 Note: It only works with genuine Sony memory cards.
1. Download the software from Sony’s official website.
2. Install and open it on your computer.
3. Insert your Sony SD card and start a scan.
4. Select the files you want to recover and then save them to computer.
Signs of Physical Damage
Consider Professional Recovery Services
At this point, your best bet is to take it to a data recovery lab. These services can be pricey, but if your data is irreplaceable, it might be worth it.
Regular Backups
Set reminders to back up your files weekly or monthly, especially after major events or projects.
Handle Cards Properly
Never remove the card while files are transferring, and always eject it safely from your device.
Format in the Camera Only
If you're using your SD card in a Sony camera, always format the card inside the camera itself to prevent compatibility issues.
Losing data from your Sony SD card can feel like a gut punch—but it doesn’t have to be the end of the story. With tools like MyRecover, simple methods like CMD, or using Sony’s Memory Card File Rescue software, there are multiple ways to perform a successful Sony camera SD card recovery.
Just remember—act fast, don’t overwrite the card, and use the method that best fits your situation. And hey, maybe this is the push you needed to finally set up those backups you’ve been putting off!
1. How to recover an SD card that cannot be read?
Try using reliable recovery software like MyRecover or Sony’s Memory Card File Rescue. If the card is physically damaged, professional help may be needed.
2. Are pictures permanently deleted from an SD card?
Not immediately. Deleted pictures usually remain on the card until new data overwrites them, so quick recovery is possible.
3. Can a corrupted SD card be fixed?
Yes, many corrupted SD cards can be repaired using software tools that fix file system errors or recover lost files.
4. Will removing the SD card delete everything?
No, simply removing the SD card doesn’t delete data. But improper removal during file transfers can cause corruption or data loss.