GetDataBack Pro Review: A Struggle to Get Data Back

Out of 5 Total Score
No. 22 Among all Windows solutions
GetDataBack Pro boldly claims the ability to recover all of your drive’s data. Is there merit to this statement? Or, is this merely overconfidence? We’ve rigorously tested its capabilities so you don’t have to. Check out our full review.
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GetDataBack Pro – Overview
#Instead of jumping straight into the recovery capabilities of GetDataBack Pro, let’s take a look at some of the requirements and specifications for the software so you get an understanding of what to expect.
Factsheet
Requirements | Windows 7-10, 11 (unofficial support) |
Latest version | 5.61 • Released 25th Sep, 2022 |
Download size | 14,9 MB |
Category | Data Recovery Software |
UI languages | English |
Pricing
Distributed as | Freemium Some features are provided free of charge, but money is required to unlock the rest |
Trial version available | Trial version available |
Trial version limitations | With trial version you can:
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Paid plans |
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Price range | $79.00...$999.00 |
License model | Lifetime |
No credit card to try | No credit card to try |
Money back guarantee | Money back guarantee |
The basic license for GetDataBack Pro is $79 USD. This will give you access to recover data from Windows, Apple, and Linux-based operating systems. Although it may appear relatively cheap for a recovery tool, the quality of the application quickly makes you realize that you paid too much (as we’ll discuss later).
The trial version of GetDataBack Pro only allows you to preview the files discovered by the scan, unlike other recovery tools that allow you to recover a limited amount up to a certain threshold.
GetDataBack Pro is one of many recovery products offered by Runtime Software. You also have the option of getting NAS Data Recovery, RAID Recovery, and RAID Reconstructor either individually or as part of bundles.
Pricing details
1 | Price | $79.00 |
2 | Details |
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1 | Price | $249.00 |
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1 | Price | $249.00 |
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1 | Price | $319.00 |
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1 | Price | $849.00 |
2 | Details |
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1 | Price | $999.00 |
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Discounts and coupons
Discount | Description | Link |
---|---|---|
-15% | 15% Off Entire Purchase Receive GetDataBack code “MAR15”. Use this code at checkout. Discount automatically applied in cart. Only valid at GetDataBack. | Get the Deal |
-10% | 10% off GetDataBack Pro Coupon code - WELCOME10 | Get the Deal |
Have you found a better discount coupon and would like to share it with our readers? Then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us, and we’ll update this section promptly.
Developer — Runtime Software, LLC
GetDataBack Pro was developed by Runtime Software, LLC which is based in the United States.
1% 20.3% than avg
Reflects the share of online traffic within the niche occupied by data recovery software, based on data taken from ahrefs.com (from Google US search engine).
3700 29.9% than avg
Based on the number of brand-related search queries on Google US according to ahrefs.com.
Little is known about Runtime Software. Although the company offers a range of recovery products, it has a very small presence online, leading its products to be less popular compared to others in the industry.
Developer website | runtime.org |
Support email | support@runtime.org |
Founded | 1999 • 24 years on the market |
HQ location | 75-1165 Keopu Mauka Dr Holualoa, HI, 96725 United States |
Phone | 888-777-6960 |
Runtime Software has been on the market for 23 years, developing a range of recovery products. The company has no social media presence, nor does it put a lot of effort into its marketing. As a result, it doesn’t stand out amongst the myriad of other competing data recovery tools on the market.
Data Recovery with GetDataBack Pro
Tested on: Windows 11 (version 21H2)
Next, we put GetDataBack Pro through a simulated data-loss situation to effectively test its recovery capabilities while also noting down what its strengths and weaknesses are.
How We Test
In an effort to standardize the way we test the data recovery tools we review, we've developed a way of objectively analyzing each part of the recovery process. This is how our tests are broken down:
# | Step | Description |
---|---|---|
1 | Installation | We look at how easy it is to download and install the data recovery tool. |
2 | Source selection | Then, we look at how easy it is to select the virtual hard drives containing our data sets in preparation for scanning. |
3 | Scanning process | The scanning process is begun and we carefully analyze how long it takes and what sort of toll it takes on hardware. |
4 | Managing found data | The results screen is reviewed to determine how easy it is to filter through discovered data. |
5 | Recovery and post-processing | Once we're ready for recovery, we look at how easy it is to recover our files and the integrity of our data upon completion. |
This process is followed for all available scanning modes to ensure we don’t miss anything that the application has to offer. Then, we compare it against criteria that we believe every data recovery tool should meet.
Installation
The installation file for GetDataBack Pro is relatively small at just over 15 MB. Upon opening it, you're met with a clear and helpful warning that installing this software on the same drive you're recovering from could cause issues.
The entire installation is very short, basically only requiring your acceptance to their terms of use and the creation of shortcuts. When installed, the application takes up 18.1 MB of hard drive space.
Source selection
After opening the application, you're met with a very outdated user interface. The colors used do not complement each other, nor are they consistent with the branding used on the Runtime Software website.
Aside from the visuals, the application makes it easy for you to choose the disk you want to scan. You can choose from the list of devices to scan or use an image file. Alternatively, you can click [DRIVE] > Recover drive to see a list of your drives, as well as their names.
Scanning process
After selecting a drive, you'll be asked to select the file system you want to scan. Additionally, you can now choose the level of scanning you want to perform, ranging from Level 1 to Level 4 (with Level 4 being the most in-depth but slowest scan).
Scan times were very fast, even at the highest level. As the scan progresses, you have the opportunity to see what sectors are being scanned, as well as the estimated time remaining. Unfortunately, you cannot explore the application further while the scan is active.
Managing found files
Scan results are displayed in a tree view only. You can organize the results by clicking on the column headings. Files can be previewed, which is particularly useful for checking image files. In the bottom-left of the window, you can choose to show deleted files and duplicates by ticking their corresponding checkbox.
Clicking File > Search allows you to filter the results using parameters such as date and size, making it easier to find your data. However, this is as good as it gets for finding your files. Navigating a tree view can be tedious, especially if you're performing photo recovery.
Recovery and post-processing
The actual process of recovering files is confusing if you're unfamiliar with how to use the application. Unlike most recovery tools that have a clear Recover button, in GetDataBack Pro you need to right-click the file or directory and click Copy. Upon doing so, you're given the option to choose an output location. A quick reminder that recovery can only be performed with a valid license, as you can only preview your files using the free version.
After confirming recovery, everything is fairly straightforward. You will be presented with a progress bar and a real-time view of what files are being recovered.
Tutorials
GetDataBack Pro – Tutorials and Other Videos
Here are some useful videos you can view to better understand GetDataBack Pro's recovery process and the features it includes.
GetDataBack Pro – Full Review
Now that we’ve looked at the recovery process of GetDataBack Pro, let’s look at how the application measures up against our evaluation criteria.
Karma
12 rating criteria
GetDataBack Pro scores a below-average Karma rating. It is not updated regularly, nor is there a changelog available to view what changes are being made to the software.
Runtime Software is also a relatively unknown company, which removes the trust factor a lot of users look for when trying new software. However, GetDataBack Pro has been on the market long enough to garner a number of reviews, which helps it stand on its own.
Support is offered through phone and email (although technical support is exclusively offered through email). The estimated response time is less than 24 hours, which is great compared to some other companies. Runtime Software also has offices in the United States and Europe.
# | Feature | Result |
---|---|---|
1 | Update frequency | More than 6 months |
2 | Updated recently | Yes |
3 | Changelog available | Not available |
4 | Latest Windows release supported | Nope, Windows 10 and older |
5 | Genuine or clone? | Genuine |
6 | Brand name popularity | Unpopular |
7 | Online market share | Poor |
8 | Maturity | Mature |
9 | Extensive knowledge base | Available |
10 | Helpdesk support | Available |
11 | Live chat | Not available |
12 | Phone support | Yes |
Bang for the buck
8 rating criteria
Given there are other data recovery tools out there with additional features and more comprehensive recovery capabilities for a similar price, GetDataBack Pro scores below average in terms of value.
The free trial offered only allows you to preview your files, which automatically pushes some users to other software that allows for recovery up to a certain limit. Even then, the quality of recovery you’re paying for with a license doesn’t compare to other tools in the same price range.
The one redeeming quality of GetDataBack Pro is that it doesn’t use a subscription model, so you only have to pay once.
# | Feature | Result |
---|---|---|
1 | Competitive pricing | No |
2 | Price-quality ratio | Average |
3 | Free trial | Yes (preview only) |
4 | Is it free? | Paid license is required for recovery |
5 | Pricing policy | One time buy |
6 | Unlimited recovery in full version | Yes |
7 | Free upgrades | Yes |
8 | Commercial rights in the cheapest license | No |
Usability
18 rating criteria
Usability is important for an application. It ensures the user doesn’t struggle with recovery and aims to make it as quick and painless as possible. In this regard, GetDataBack Pro is sorely lacking.
For starters, the user interface is severely outdated. Not only does it use a number of contrasting colors that don’t align with its branding, but the color selection also seems to be random and serves no purpose. This leads the application to feel cheap in comparison to more appealing alternatives.
Other quality of life features, like dark mode, auto-resuming scans of failing drives, and a built-in updater are out of the question. If a drive is connected while the application is already open, you need to close it and open it again for it to appear. While it does offer the ability to sort results, options are very limited.
# | Feature | Result |
---|---|---|
1 | Modern user-friendly interface | No |
2 | Dark mode | No |
3 | Easy-to-locate features | No |
4 | Automatic implementation of multiple appropriate scanning methods without user interaction | No |
5 | Auto-resuming scans of failing drives | No |
6 | Auto-resuming backups of failing drives | No |
7 | Convenient source selection on start | So-so |
8 | Convenient file-by-file preview of recoverable items | So-so |
9 | Convenient thumbnail preview of recoverable items | No |
10 | Mount recoverable items as disk | No |
11 | Built-in updater | No |
12 | Multiple view modes in scan results | No |
13 | Hex view for recoverable items | Yes |
14 | Filter recoverable items by type | No |
15 | Search recoverable items by file names | Yes |
16 | Sort results | Yes |
17 | Multilingual UI | No |
18 | Simple deployment | Yes |
Recovery performance
122 rating criteria
Finally, we reach arguably the most important factor: recovery performance. As much as we’d like to say GetDataBack Pro makes up for its downfalls in other areas with its impressive recovery performance, we would be lying. During our tests, we found that the application struggled to find the majority of our data.
This next section will focus on the application’s ability to recover each type of file from various partitions.
# | Feature | Result | Description |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Deep scan | Fine | The application was unable to find data on our APFS and EXT4 partitions. |
2 | Quick scan | Fine | Most data was recovered from FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS partitions. APFS scan encountered freezing. |
3 | Other types of scan | Bad | No signature-based scanning option. |
4 | Device support | Fine | Offers good device support, aside from RAID which uses a different app. |
5 | Real-life recovery challenge | Bad | As there is no signature-based scanning option, no files were found. |
6 | Other notable recovery features | Bad | Limited additional recovery features aside from byte-to-byte backups. |
Clever scan
# | Feature | Score |
---|---|---|
1 | HFS+ partitions | 5 |
2 | APFS partitions | 0 |
3 | FAT32 partitions | 3 |
4 | exFAT partitions | 3 |
5 | NTFS partitions | 4 |
6 | EXT4 partitions | 0 |
GetDataBack Pro failed to recover files from our APFS and EXT4 partitions. Our FAT32 and ExFAT partitions saw some success, though the folder names were lost and root files were missing.
Our HFS+ partition saw the most success, with only four of our files not being found. Next was our NTFS partition, which also had the majority of its data recovered.
Quick scan
# | Feature | Score |
---|---|---|
1 | HFS+ partitions | 0 |
2 | APFS partitions | 0 |
3 | FAT32 partitions | 3 |
4 | exFAT partitions | 4 |
5 | NTFS partitions | 4 |
6 | EXT4 partitions | 2 |
The quick scan results were less successful than that of the clever scan, with no files being recovered from our HFS+ and APFS partitions. The APFS partition scan would have been successful, but the application hangs and prevents you from viewing the results.
Most FAT32 files were recovered, despite the root folder names and files disappearing. ExFAT and NTFS partitions had the majority of their data recovered.
Other scan types
# | Feature | Score |
---|---|---|
1 | The number of formats supported by deep scan | 0 |
2 | BitLocker support | 0 |
3 | Windows shadow copies scanning | 0 |
4 | Scan for lost partitions | 3 |
5 | Recovered files' labeling | 0 |
6 | Partial file recovery | 0 |
7 | Disk images: scan and recovery | 5 |
As there is no scanning method that relies on file signatures, there are no formats supported by deep scanning. There is no support for encrypted BitLocker drives either, which is important for those who store sensitive data on protected drives. The application does have the ability to detect lost partitions, but only as part of the main scan. You can also create byte-to-byte disk images using the application.
Device Support
# | Feature | Score |
---|---|---|
1 | Internal and external HDD | 5 |
2 | Internal and external SSD | 5 |
3 | USB thumb drives / Classic iPods (non-iOS) / FireWire devices | 5 |
4 | Memory cards | 5 |
5 | iOS devices | 0 |
6 | Android devices | 0 |
7 | Recovery from RAID1, 0, JBOD | 0 |
8 | Unmountable partitions | 5 |
GetDataBack Pro can recover data from a number of devices. Internal and external hard drives and solid-state drives are supported, as well as forms of removable flash storage like USB drives and SD cards. However, there is no support for Android or iOS devices. Support for RAID recovery is offered using a different application.
Real-life recovery challenges
# | Feature | Score |
---|---|---|
1 | Document formats recovery | 0 |
2 | Raw photo recovery | 0 |
3 | Video formats recovery | 0 |
Raw photo recovery
# | Feature | Score |
---|---|---|
1 | 3FR | 0 |
2 | ARW | 0 |
3 | BMP | 0 |
4 | CR2 | 0 |
5 | CR3 | 0 |
6 | CRW | 0 |
7 | DCR | 0 |
8 | DNG | 0 |
9 | CinemaDNG | 0 |
10 | ERF | 0 |
11 | EXR | 0 |
12 | FFF | 0 |
13 | GPR | 0 |
14 | HEIC | 0 |
15 | IIQ | 0 |
16 | INSP | 0 |
17 | JP2 | 0 |
18 | JPG | 0 |
19 | KDC | 0 |
20 | MEF | 0 |
21 | MOS | 0 |
22 | MPO | 0 |
23 | MRW | 0 |
24 | NEF | 0 |
25 | NRW | 0 |
26 | ORF | 0 |
27 | PEF | 0 |
28 | RAF | 0 |
29 | RAW | 0 |
30 | RW2 | 0 |
31 | RWL | 0 |
32 | SR2 | 0 |
33 | SRF | 0 |
34 | SRW | 0 |
35 | TIFF | 0 |
36 | X3F | 0 |
37 | X3I | 0 |
GetDataBack Pro was unable to recover any raw photo file formats that are typically used by digital cameras and mobile devices.
Video formats recovery
# | Feature | Score |
---|---|---|
1 | 360 | 0 |
2 | ARI | 0 |
3 | ARX | 0 |
4 | AVI | 0 |
5 | AVI | 0 |
6 | BRAW | 0 |
7 | INSV | 0 |
8 | INSV | 0 |
9 | MOV | 0 |
10 | MOV | 0 |
11 | MOV | 0 |
12 | MOV | 0 |
13 | MOV | 0 |
14 | MP4 | 0 |
15 | MP4 | 0 |
16 | MXF | 0 |
17 | MXF | 0 |
18 | MXF | 0 |
19 | MXF | 0 |
20 | R3D | 0 |
21 | WMV | 0 |
GetDataBack Pro was unable to recover any of the video formats we used in the real-life data recovery scenario.
Document formats recovery
# | Feature | Score |
---|---|---|
1 | ACCDB | 0 |
2 | DJVU | 0 |
3 | DOC | 0 |
4 | DOCX | 0 |
5 | FB2 | 0 |
6 | KEY | 0 |
7 | MDB | 0 |
8 | NUMBERS | 0 |
9 | ODP | 0 |
10 | ODS | 0 |
11 | ODT | 0 |
12 | PAGES | 0 |
13 | 0 | |
14 | PPT | 0 |
15 | PPTX | 0 |
16 | RTF | 0 |
17 | XLS | 0 |
18 | XLSX | 0 |
None of the document files we used were recovered by GetDataBack Pro.
Other notable recovery features
# | Feature | Score |
---|---|---|
1 | Overall non-intrusive read-only algorithms | 0 |
2 | Network recovery | 0 |
3 | Effectively filters out corrupted scan results | 0 |
4 | Byte-to-byte device backups | 5 |
5 | Bootable recovery drive creation | 5 |
6 | Convenient scan session management | 2 |
7 | Bad sector management | 0 |
8 | Recovery chance prediction | 0 |
9 | RAID reconstructor | 0 |
10 | Disk vitals monitoring and tracking during scan | 0 |
11 | Data protection | 0 |
12 | Links to in-lab recovery service for physically damaged devices | 0 |
13 | Scan speed | 4 |
14 | Scan free space only | 0 |
15 | Start file recovery without interrupting the scan | 0 |
16 | Preview recoverable items without interrupting the scan | 0 |
17 | Forensic features | 0 |
The application allows for byte-to-byte image backups and bootable recovery drive creation. It also has notably fast scan speeds.
It does not offer other useful recovery features that would otherwise complement your recovery experience, such as recovery chance prediction, active data protection, or bad sector management.
Extras
10 rating criteria
There are no extras offered with GetDataBack Pro, meaning it’s intended for data recovery only.
# | Feature | Result | Description |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Disk space mapping | No | Not supported |
2 | Disk clean up | No | Not supported |
3 | Corrupted video repair tool | No | Not supported |
4 | Corrupted photo repair tool | No | Not supported |
5 | S.M.A.R.T. | No | Not supported |
6 | Duplicate finder | No | Not supported |
7 | Built-in disk space secure eraser | No | Not supported |
8 | Disk cloning | No | Not supported |
9 | Disk surface test | No | Not supported |
10 | Secure data shredding | No | Not supported |
This no-frills approach may appeal to users only wanting one use out of their software, but given the cost of the application, there is little incentive to stop users from choosing other software that offers more functionality.
GetDataBack Simple gets the job done but that’s about it.
The wizard isn’t nearly as intuitive as some of the others we tested. Some options are hidden, the color scheme is distracting, the work flows aren’t natural, you can’t scan by specific file types, you can’t save scans … the list of misses goes on.
Our conclusion: If you’re spending good money on a data recovery tool, go with one that offers more features and a more efficient experience.
cloudwards.net
I bought this years ago when a hard drive at home crashed with all of my photography work on it. My younger dumber self had learned the hard lesson of not having multiple backups. 17 hours later and I had recovered about 99% of over 20,000 photos. We bought it at work and it's recovered data on several drives.
Cody Weaver
It is stated clearly in the review of many programs that you must purchase it but this one does not. It will not recover any files unless you pay the 70 bucks. It showed that it was able to recover some files although many of them were unrecognizable.
Mark_psalms3737
Bottom line
In an industry that’s dominated by data recovery tools that offer more robust recovery abilities and additional features, GetDataBack Pro is nothing to write home about.
The user interface uses jarring colors and a counterintuitive layout that only serves to confuse its users. It’s lacking any features that would otherwise complement the data recovery process, making it even less appealing in terms of value.
One of the biggest downfalls is its inability to scan based on file signatures. This is something that’s commonplace now for data recovery tools, which makes it all the more surprising why this isn’t an option.
Suffice to say, GetDataBack Pro may have the ability to recover your files, but in terms of price, effectiveness, design, and usability, it’s outclassed by almost all other tools on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below we’ve answered some of the commonly asked questions surrounding GetDataBack Pro for Windows.
What is GetDataBack?
GetDataBack is a data recovery application developed by Runtime Software. It allows you to scan and retrieve data from your hard drive.
How does GetDataBack work?
GetDataBack Pro uses an algorithm to scan the underlying file system of your drive for recoverable data. It then displays this data to you and allows you to choose what files you want to recover.
How to set up Runtime GetDataBack?
GetDataBack Pro can be set up in just a few clicks:
- Download the installation file from the Runtime Software website.
- Follow the on-screen prompts that require you to accept the terms of use and suggestions to create shortcuts.
- Click Install. You’ll be given the option to open the application once complete.
Where is GetDataBack installed?
By default, GetDataBack Pro is installed to the following path: C:\Program Files\Runtime Software\GetDataBack Pro.
How to use GetDataBack?
Once you have GetDataBack Pro installed and open, follow these basic steps to complete a scan:
- Select the drive you want to scan.
- Select the file system you want to scan. Additionally, choose the level of scanning you want to perform at the bottom-left.
- Select the files you want to recover, then click [FILE] > Copy.
- Choose the desired output location.
How to perform data recovery with GetDataBack?
Once you have scanned your drive, you will be presented with a tree view of your files. Simply select the files you want to recover, then click [FILE] > Copy. From here, you can choose where you want to recover the files.
How long does it take GetDataBack to scan a drive?
This ultimately depends on the level of scan you perform. You can choose from Level 1 to level 4, each level being more comprehensive than the last. Generally, the scan times are quite fast in GetDataBack Pro. However, bear in mind that larger hard drives will have longer scan times.
What is the MFT in GetDataBack?
MFT stands for Master File Table. The MFT is responsible for tracking the names, attributes, and locations of your data. It is used by GetDataBack Pro to find and locate your data for recovery.
How to use GetDataBack for NTFS?
You can recover data from NTFS partitions just like any other supported partition type. Here’s how:
- Select the drive containing the NTFS partition.
- Select the NTFS partition.
- Once the scan is complete, recover your data.
Is GetDataBack free?
No. You can download a demo version of GetDataBack, but it only allows you to preview files, not recover them.
How much does GetDataBack cost?
A license for GetDataBack Pro will cost $79 USD. Alternatively, you can buy it as part of one of the bundles on the Runtime Software website.
Where to get the full version of GetDataBack?
You can get the full version of GetDataBack by purchasing a license from the Runtime Software website.
How good is GetDataBack?
While there’s no doubt GetDataBack Pro can recover data, it’s shadowed by the capabilities of more advanced recovery tools on the market. During our tests, the application’s performance was unsatisfactory.
Is there a portable version of GetDataBack?
There is currently no portable version available for GetDataBack Pro.
👌 Satisfactory
Out of 5 Total score
No. 22 Among all Windows solutions
Without a doubt, GetDataBack Pro has been unsatisfactory in almost every regard. It has sub-par recovery capabilities, a user interface that quickly becomes strenuous to look at, and no additional features that allow it to stand out from the crowd. We recommend looking elsewhere.
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Jordan Jamieson-Mane is a content writer with a focus on technology-related content. He has spent much of his life studying and working with all types of technology. During his time as a writer, he has written countless articles in the field of data recovery, breaking down complex topics into articles that are easy to understand.
When he's not writing articles on data recovery, Jordan enjoys traveling the world, reading books, and building websites.
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What Users Say about GetDataBack Pro