Best iPhone Data Recovery Software for Mac 2025: Top 8 Tools
Best iPhone Data Recovery Software for Mac 2025: Top 8 Tools Compared
Losing important data from your iPhone can be devastating, especially when you don't have a recent backup. Whether it's precious family photos, important text messages, or crucial business contacts, data loss scenarios are more common than you might think. Fortunately, specialized iPhone data recovery software for Mac can help retrieve your lost information, even from the latest iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models running iOS 18.
With numerous recovery tools available in the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide examines the top 8 iPhone data recovery software options for Mac users in 2025, comparing their features, pricing, and effectiveness to help you make an informed decision.
What Data Can iPhone Recovery Software Recover?
Modern iPhone data recovery software has evolved significantly, offering comprehensive recovery capabilities for various data types. Understanding what can be recovered helps set realistic expectations and choose the most suitable tool for your specific needs.
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Photos and Videos
Recovery software can retrieve deleted photos and videos from your iPhone's internal storage, including images from the Recently Deleted folder that have been permanently removed. This includes photos taken with the camera, screenshots, downloaded images, and videos recorded in various formats supported by iOS 18.
Messages and iMessage
Text messages, iMessages, and their attachments can often be recovered, including conversations that were deleted weeks or even months ago. This is particularly valuable for retrieving important communication threads or media shared through messaging apps.
Contacts and Call History
Contact information, including names, phone numbers, email addresses, and call logs, can typically be restored. This is essential for business users who may have lost important client information or personal contacts.
WhatsApp and Social Media Data
Many recovery tools specialize in retrieving data from popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and social media platforms. This includes chat histories, shared media, and voice messages.
Notes and Documents
Important notes, voice memos, and documents stored on your iPhone can often be recovered, including content that was synced with iCloud but later deleted.
Safari Data and App Information
Browsing history, bookmarks, saved passwords, and data from various apps can also be retrieved, depending on how the information was stored on the device.
Top 8 iPhone Data Recovery Software for Mac 2025
1. Disk Drill - Best Overall Choice
Price: $89 (Pro version)
Disk Drill stands out as the most comprehensive iPhone data recovery solution for Mac users in 2025. Developed by CleverFiles, this powerful tool offers exceptional recovery rates and supports all iPhone models, including the latest iPhone 16 series with full iOS 18 compatibility.
Key Features:
- Advanced scanning algorithms for maximum recovery success
- Supports 400+ file formats including photos, contacts, and messages
- Preview functionality before recovery
- Multiple recovery modes: from device, iTunes backup, and iCloud backup
- Built-in data protection features
- Intuitive interface suitable for all skill levels
Pros:
- Highest recovery success rate in independent tests
- Excellent customer support and documentation
- Regular updates for new iOS versions
- Additional disk utility features included
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to competitors
- Deep scan process can be time-consuming
2. Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone - Best for Messaging Apps
Price: $79.99
Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone has earned a reputation as the go-to solution for recovering messaging app data, particularly iMessage and WhatsApp conversations. The software excels in retrieving complex communication threads with all associated media files intact.
Key Features:
- Specialized iMessage and WhatsApp recovery algorithms
- Supports recovery from encrypted iTunes backups
- Preview messages before recovery
- Export recovered data in multiple formats
- Compatible with macOS Sonoma and Sequoia
Pros:
- Exceptional performance with messaging apps
- Clean, user-friendly interface
- Fast scanning process
- Reliable technical support
Cons:
- Limited features for non-messaging data types
- Occasional compatibility issues with older Mac systems
3. EaseUS MobiSaver - Budget-Friendly Option
Price: $69.95
EaseUS MobiSaver offers solid recovery capabilities at an attractive price point, making it an excellent choice for users seeking reliable data recovery without premium pricing. The software provides good performance across various data types while maintaining simplicity.
Key Features:
- Three recovery modes: from iOS device, iTunes backup, and iCloud backup
- Supports 25+ data types
- Free trial with limited recovery options
- Step-by-step recovery wizard
- iOS 18 and iPhone 16 support
Pros:
- Competitive pricing
- Good balance of features and affordability
- Regular software updates
- Decent recovery success rates
Cons:
- Slower scanning compared to premium alternatives
- Limited advanced features
- Customer support can be slow to respond
4. Dr.Fone by Wondershare - Most Trusted Brand
Price: $79.95
Dr.Fone has been a pioneer in mobile data recovery for over a decade, building a strong reputation for reliability and comprehensive device support. The software continues to evolve with new iOS versions and device releases.
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Key Features:
- Comprehensive mobile toolkit beyond just recovery
- Support for 6000+ devices including all iPhone models
- Advanced preview capabilities
- Selective data recovery options
- Additional features like screen unlock and system repair
Pros:
- Long-established reputation in the industry
- Comprehensive mobile management suite
- Strong technical documentation
- Regular feature updates
Cons:
- Interface can feel cluttered with multiple features
- Some advanced features require separate purchases
- Larger software footprint
5. Tenorshare UltData - Best File Type Support
Price: $59.95/year
Tenorshare UltData distinguishes itself by supporting over 35 different file types, making it one of the most comprehensive recovery solutions available. The software is particularly effective for users who need to recover diverse data types from their iPhones.
Key Features:
- Support for 35+ file types
- Four recovery modes including advanced options
- Real-time preview during scanning
- Batch recovery capabilities
- Full iOS 18 and iPhone 16 compatibility
Pros:
- Extensive file type support
- Competitive annual pricing
- Fast scanning algorithms
- Good recovery success rates
Cons:
- Subscription-based pricing model
- Can be overwhelming for simple recovery needs
- Occasional stability issues during long scans
6. FoneLab - Best for Social Media Recovery
Price: $69.95 (lifetime license)
FoneLab specializes in recovering data from social media and messaging applications, with particular strength in WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger recovery. The lifetime licensing model makes it attractive for long-term users.
Key Features:
- Specialized WhatsApp and Messenger recovery
- Lifetime license with free updates
- Support for multiple social media platforms
- Export options in various formats
- Compatible with latest macOS versions
Pros:
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- Excellent social media data recovery
- One-time purchase with lifetime updates
- Specialized algorithms for messaging apps
- Good value for long-term use
Cons:
- Limited effectiveness with non-social media data
- Smaller development team means slower updates
- Interface could be more modern
7. iMobie PhoneRescue - Most Beginner-Friendly
Price: $49.99
iMobie PhoneRescue focuses on simplicity and ease of use, making it the ideal choice for users who want effective data recovery without technical complexity. The software guides users through each step of the recovery process.
Key Features:
- Simplified three-step recovery process
- Intelligent scanning technology
- Built-in tutorials and help system
- Support for 25+ data types
- iOS 18 ready with regular updates
Pros:
- Most user-friendly interface
- Affordable pricing
- Excellent for non-technical users
- Quick setup and operation
Cons:
- Fewer advanced features
- Lower recovery rates for complex scenarios
- Limited customization options
8. Leawo iOS Data Recovery - Best for Selective Recovery
Price: $59.95
Leawo iOS Data Recovery excels in selective data recovery, allowing users to precisely choose which files to recover. This approach saves time and storage space while providing excellent control over the recovery process.
Key Features:
- Advanced selective recovery options
- Detailed file preview capabilities
- Multiple export formats
- Efficient scanning algorithms
- Support for encrypted iTunes backups
Pros:
- Excellent selective recovery capabilities
- Efficient use of system resources
- Good price-to-feature ratio
- Stable performance
Cons:
- Smaller user community
- Limited brand recognition
- Fewer tutorial resources available
Comparison Table: iPhone Data Recovery Software for Mac 2025
| Tool | Price | Recovery Rate | iOS 18 Support | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disk Drill | $89 | 95% | Full | Overall best performance |
| Stellar Data Recovery | $79.99 | 92% | Full | Messaging app recovery |
| EaseUS MobiSaver | $69.95 | 88% | Full | Budget-friendly option |
| Dr.Fone | $79.95 | 90% | Full | Brand reputation |
| Tenorshare UltData | $59.95/year | 89% | Full | 35+ file types support |
| FoneLab | $69.95 lifetime | 87% | Full | Social media recovery |
| iMobie PhoneRescue | $49.99 | 85% | Full | Beginner-friendly |
| Leawo iOS Data Recovery | $59.95 | 86% | Full | Selective recovery |
How to Choose the Right iPhone Data Recovery Tool
Selecting the best iPhone data recovery software depends on several factors specific to your situation and needs. Consider these key aspects when making your decision:
Recovery Requirements
Identify what type of data you need to recover. If you primarily need messaging app data, Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone might be your best choice. For comprehensive data recovery across all file types, Disk Drill offers the most complete solution.
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Budget Considerations
Recovery software prices range from $49.99 to $89, with some offering subscription models. Consider whether you need a one-time solution or might require ongoing recovery capabilities. Lifetime licenses like FoneLab provide good long-term value.
Technical Expertise
Your comfort level with technology should influence your choice. Beginners should consider iMobie PhoneRescue for its simplified interface, while advanced users might prefer the comprehensive features of Disk Drill or Dr.Fone.
Device Compatibility
Ensure the software supports your specific iPhone model and iOS version. All tools listed support iOS 18 and iPhone 15/16, but older devices might have varying levels of compatibility.
Recovery Success Rate
Higher recovery rates increase your chances of successful data retrieval. Tools like Disk Drill and Stellar Data Recovery consistently show superior performance in independent testing.
Tips for Successful iPhone Data Recovery
Following these best practices significantly improves your chances of successful data recovery:
Stop Using Your iPhone Immediately
Once you realize data has been lost, stop using your iPhone immediately. Continued use can overwrite the deleted data, making recovery impossible. Every new photo, message, or app installation reduces recovery chances.
Enable Airplane Mode
Turn on Airplane Mode to prevent new data from being written to your device. This preserves the current state of your iPhone's storage and maximizes recovery potential.
Use Original Apple Cable
Always use the original Apple Lightning or USB-C cable when connecting your iPhone to your Mac. Third-party cables can cause connection issues that interfere with the recovery process.
Ensure Sufficient Mac Storage
Make sure your Mac has enough free storage space to accommodate recovered files. Large photo and video libraries can require several gigabytes of space.
Close Unnecessary Applications
Close other applications on your Mac to ensure maximum system resources are available for the recovery process. This can improve scanning speed and success rates.
Keep Your iPhone Charged
Maintain at least 50% battery charge on your iPhone during recovery. A dead battery during the process can corrupt the recovery and potentially cause additional data loss.
Try Multiple Recovery Modes
Most recovery software offers multiple scanning modes. If the quick scan doesn't find your data, try deep scan or alternative recovery methods available in your chosen software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I recover permanently deleted photos from my iPhone?
Yes, permanently deleted photos can often be recovered using specialized software, even after they've been removed from the "Recently Deleted" folder. The success rate depends on how long ago the deletion occurred and how much the device has been used since. Recovery software like Disk Drill and Stellar Data Recovery show high success rates for photo recovery, especially when used shortly after deletion.
Does iPhone data recovery work without a backup?
Absolutely. iPhone data recovery software can retrieve deleted data directly from your device's internal storage, even without iTunes or iCloud backups. The software scans the device's memory for traces of deleted files and reconstructs recoverable data. However, having a backup provides additional recovery options and typically yields better results.
Is iPhone data recovery software safe to use?
Reputable iPhone data recovery software is safe when downloaded from official sources. The tools listed in this guide are from established companies with good security practices. However, always download software directly from the developer's website and avoid pirated versions, which may contain malware. The recovery process itself is read-only and won't damage your device.
How long does iPhone data recovery typically take?
Recovery time varies depending on your iPhone's storage capacity and the amount of data to be scanned. Quick scans usually take 10-30 minutes, while deep scans can take 1-3 hours for devices with large storage capacities. iPhone 16 Pro Max models with 1TB storage may require several hours for complete scanning.
Can I recover data from a water-damaged iPhone?
If your water-damaged iPhone still powers on and can be recognized by your Mac, data recovery software may be able to retrieve your files. However, if the device won't turn on, you'll need to rely on iTunes or iCloud backups, or seek professional data recovery services that can repair the device enough to access the data.
Will recovery software work on iPhone 16 with iOS 18?
Yes, all the recovery tools mentioned in this guide have been updated to support iPhone 16 models and iOS 18. However, newer iOS versions sometimes include additional security measures that may affect recovery success rates. It's always best to use the latest version of your chosen recovery software.
Can I recover WhatsApp messages without a backup?
Yes, several recovery tools specialize in WhatsApp message recovery directly from your iPhone, even without backups. Stellar Data Recovery for iPhone and FoneLab are particularly effective for WhatsApp data recovery. The success rate is highest when recovery is attempted soon after message deletion.
Do I need to jailbreak my iPhone for data recovery?
No, modern iPhone data recovery software works with standard, non-jailbroken devices. Jailbreaking is not required and is actually not recommended, as it can void your warranty and potentially cause security vulnerabilities. All the tools reviewed work with stock iOS installations.
Can I recover data from a factory reset iPhone?
Recovering data after a factory reset is extremely difficult and often impossible using standard recovery software. Factory reset overwrites most data on the device. Your best option in this scenario is to restore from an iTunes or iCloud backup if available. Some professional data recovery services may be able to help, but success rates are very low.
What's the difference between free and paid recovery software?
Free recovery software typically has significant limitations, such as recovering only a few files, supporting fewer data types, or providing limited preview capabilities. Paid software offers comprehensive recovery features, higher success rates, technical support, and regular updates for new iOS versions. For important data recovery, paid software is generally more reliable and effective.
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Choosing the right iPhone data recovery software for Mac in 2025 depends on your specific needs, budget, and technical comfort level. Whether you need comprehensive recovery capabilities like those offered by Disk Drill, specialized messaging app recovery from Stellar Data Recovery, or budget-friendly options like EaseUS MobiSaver, there's a solution that fits your requirements. Remember to act quickly when data loss occurs, follow best practices for recovery, and choose reputable software from established developers to maximize your chances of successful data retrieval.