Compare software

GNU ddrescueSpinRite
Free

Free and open source, part of the GNU Project.

 Paid

Commercial software sold by GRC, with an upgrade path to version 6.1 for existing owners.

macOS, Linux, Command line Windows
  • Handles read errors so as little data as possible is lost
  • Scrapes good sectors out of partially readable blocks
  • Runs from boot media, independent of the installed system
  • Combines drive maintenance with data recovery
  • Command-line only, with no graphical interface
  • Copies raw blocks and does not recover individual deleted files
  • Paid, with no free tier
  • Closed source
Downloadable app Downloadable app
Open source Closed source
License not stated License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline Works offline

Checked September 23, 2026

Checked September 24, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.