The Tool Desk
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For an iCloud Drive or iWork file deleted within the last 30 days, open iCloud.com/iclouddrive, sign in, select Recently Deleted, choose the file and click Recover. Apple says recovered files return to their original folder. The steps differ slightly on iPhone, iPad, Mac and Windows, and files permanently removed from Recently Deleted cannot be restored through this iCloud.com process.
Recover an iCloud Drive file on iCloud.com
- Go to iCloud.com/iclouddrive and sign in to your Apple Account.
- Open Recently Deleted.
- Select the file or files you want back, then choose Recover. To restore every file listed, choose Recover All.
Recovered files return to their original folder. Apple’s stated recovery window is 30 days; after that, files are removed from Recently Deleted. An item you permanently delete from Recently Deleted cannot be restored through this documented workflow. Apple’s iCloud.com recovery guide explains the process and limit.
Use the recovery location for the device or app
iPhone or iPad
Open Files, tap Browse, then tap Recently Deleted. Select the file and tap Recover. Apple says it returns to its original location. If you do not see Recently Deleted, confirm you are browsing the relevant location in Files.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Mac
Check the Mac’s Trash. If the file is there, use Put Back or move it to the folder where you want it. For a missing file, Apple also recommends checking an iCloud Drive (Archive) folder if present and a Time Machine backup if one exists.
#1 Best Overall
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Windows PC
Check the Recycle Bin. Right-click the file and choose Restore if it is there. For a file deleted on another device, or one not in the Recycle Bin, check Recently Deleted on iCloud.com. Apple’s iCloud for Windows guidance covers these recovery options.
Files deleted from another app
For files deleted from other apps, go to iCloud.com/recovery, choose Restore Files, select the files and restore them. Then look in the folders where the files were before deletion. Apple documents this route in its iCloud.com recovery guide.
Rank #2
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
If the file is not in Recently Deleted
- Search by filename or a distinctive word on the device where you last saw it.
- On Mac, inspect Trash, Spotlight results, the iCloud Drive (Archive) folder if present, and any relevant Time Machine backup.
- On Windows, search for the filename and inspect Recycle Bin.
- If Files or Finder also shows another cloud-storage service, check that service’s deleted-items area.
- If the file is older than 30 days or was permanently deleted, look for an independent device, local or third-party backup. Apple’s documented iCloud.com recovery route does not restore permanently removed files.
Protect the recovery process
While Data Recovery is in progress, do not change iCloud Drive data. Apple warns that changes during recovery can interrupt the process. Its missing-files guidance also recommends checking other locations and backups when a file is not visible in iCloud Drive: If you’re missing files in iCloud Drive. For iPhone and iPad file recovery steps, see Apple’s Files app guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- High capacity in a small enclosure – The small, lightweight design offers up to 6TB* capacity, making WD Elements portable hard drives the ideal companion for consumers on the go.
- Plug-and-play expandability
- Vast capacities up to 6TB[1] to store your photos, videos, music, important documents and more
- SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps)
Rank #4
- USB-C and USB 3.1 compatible.Specific uses: Business, personal
- Innovative style with refined metal cover
- Password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption
- Formatted for Mac
Rank #3
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
