Data loss happens frequently and unexpectedly, no matter what device you use. And while the cost of data recovery services may seem complicated to calculate and expensive, the cost of downtime for a business can surpass it in a matter of hours.
On average, professional data recovery can cost anywhere from $300 to well over $1.900. Usually, what determines the final quote is the type of device, type of damage, and its severity, as well as the turnaround time selected.
However, it’s important to note that different data recovery service providers have different criteria for determining their own pricing. In this article, we’ll go over the different ways that data recovery cost is calculated and how you can choose the best data recovery service provider.
Why is data recovery so expensive?
Data recovery is a service that covers a lot of ground. From accidentally deleted files in a USB flash drive to ransomware-encrypted databases in cloud servers – data recovery professionals have the experience, tools, and knowledge to restore the data back safely.
Considering all the types of technology that exists to store data in multiple file formats, data recovery experts are able to quickly diagnose the problem, create a list of recoverable data, and restore them from devices such as:
- Hard disk drives (HDDs)
- Solid-state drives (SSDs)
- External hard drives
- Memory cards
- USB flash drives
- Digital cameras and camcorders
- Smartphones and tablets
- Laptops and personal computers
The hourly rate of these professionals, their equipment, and (most importantly) the successful recovery of your data are the main factors that affect the data recovery price. Like SalvageData, most reputable data recovery providers will have a No Data, No Charge policy, which means that if they cannot recover the data as promised, there will be no charge for the attempt. This is not an industry-wide policy, so always check before sending a business your device.
How is data recovery priced
There are three main pricing methods you’ll find when searching for a data recovery solution:
Free data recovery
Yes, data recovery can be free – if it’s software. Even SalvageData offers our free data recovery software that can be installed on Windows or Mac devices to restore deleted files. Other data recovery software providers commonly have a tiered pricing structure, where the price to use the software increases depending on how much data you want to recover.
However, it’s important to remember that data recovery software only works for software-related issues, such as accidental formatting. If you notice any sign of physical damage to your device (water/liquid damage, clicking sounds, etc.), call a data recovery advisor immediately.
Flat rate data recovery
The flat rate is typically advertised at a super low cost but has its own drawbacks, mainly due to the fact that it’s impossible to accurately diagnose a storage device without accessing it.
Some professionals will keep their word on the flat rate and (especially if the solution is simple and not time-consuming) will not charge any additional fees.
However, since the company cannot diagnose the issue, then it can’t predict the labor costs of fixing more complex data loss scenarios. This way the prices often can increase what traditional recovery providers charge by adding on extra fees, such as:
- Second attempt, second opinion, or open drive fee. Providers charge this when media has already been at another lab or service provider
- Part fee. Service providers charge for any cases that are mechanical, electromechanical, or may require a part. These part fees add up, often requiring multiple parts that can range up to $500 per part.
- Attempt fee. This is what providers charge for what they can on complex cases. Attempt fees can go up to $1000 and are non-refundable.
- Uncommon fee. Providers charge for what they call non-common file systems, interfaces, size factors, files to recover, etc. For some providers, only Windows-based and SATA hard drives are common.
- Transfer media fee. Transferring the data after the recovery service is complete is a standard fee.
Custom quote for data recovery
Getting a custom quote means that you’ll only pay for what combination of parts, resources, and time were necessary to retrieve your data. This is when a company will first receive and diagnose the issue before sending a detailed quote for the services.
Some providers do charge for this evaluation, especially if you request that the evaluation process start ASAP for an emergency data recovery. However, it’s more common for you to receive a free evaluation and quote before the data is restored. SalvageData goes a step further by sending a list of recoverable data for final approval before sending the invoice.
What determines the total cost of data recovery
Professional data recovery services offer comprehensive solutions for all types of data loss scenarios, including those that software cannot handle. They also provide customer support and ensure data privacy during the recovery process.
So how can you calculate how much your data recovery will cost? Here are a few factors:
Type of device
Different devices have different architectures and storage technologies. For instance, recovering data from a solid-state drive (SSD) can be more complex compared to a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), potentially increasing the cost.
Some manufacturers also request that the service provider be certified to work with their devices, and it can mean losing your warranty if you go to a non-authorized provider.
Severity of damage
The severity of the damage will also affect how much it costs to recover data. A minor issue might be resolved with a few simple steps while more severe problems may require advanced techniques and tools. The time needed to resolve the issue can also add to the cost.
Fire, water, and dropped, demand different approaches. And it’s even more different from logical issues, ransomware, and other errors. Each damage requires tools and services specifics for their own, impacting the final price.
Per GB
The volume of data to be recovered can impact the price – for some providers, SalvageData, for example, does not charge extra per GB of recovered data.
Larger quantities of data typically require more time and resources to recover, leading to higher costs.
Type of File
Certain file types may require specific recovery techniques or software, potentially raising the cost. Encrypted files, for example, are often more difficult to restore.
Deleted File Recovery
While this is usually a straightforward process with lower costs, if files have been overwritten or securely deleted, recovery can be more complex and expensive.
Pro tip: As soon as you realize that files are missing, stop using your device. This will help prevent data from being overwritten.
Type of Failure
This is where a professional diagnosis comes into play and allows experts to determine if the issue is a logical failure or mechanical failure.
Logical failures, such as software errors or accidental deletion, are generally cheaper to resolve than mechanical failures. Mechanical failures, involving physical damage to a device, often require more specialized equipment and expertise.
Cleanroom
If a device has suffered physical damage, it may need to be disassembled in a cleanroom to prevent further harm from dust or other particles. Maintaining these sterile environments is costly, which can add to the overall cost of data recovery.
Turnaround Time
If you need data recovered quickly, you may be required to pay a premium for expedited service. Service providers usually offer multiple service options for you to choose from, including a 24/7 year-round emergency option.
Onsite or Remote Data Recovery
This is more common for enterprises, which is when it becomes impractical to send the storage device to a professional data recovery laboratory. Onsite recovery, where a professional comes to your location, can be more expensive due to travel and convenience factors. In contrast, remote recovery services, performed over the internet, are typically less expensive but may not be suitable for all types of data loss scenarios.
Data recovery cost calculator
Too many factors go into data recovery services for an accurate quote to be done before analyzing the device. However, if you want a quick estimate you can use our free data recovery cost calculator.
Have questions on data recovery? Contact our team of data recovery advisors 24/7 to answer your questions.
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