USB flash drives, such as the SanDisk Ultra series, are widely used for storing documents, photos, and media files because of their portability and convenience. However, like all storage devices, they can become corrupted, leaving your data inaccessible. The good news is that in many cases, you can recover files from a corrupted SanDisk Ultra flash drive with the right steps and tools.
Why Does a SanDisk Ultra USB Get Corrupted?
Before diving into recovery, it helps to understand the possible causes of corruption:
Improper ejection of the USB drive from your computer.
Sudden power failures during file transfer.
Virus or malware infection.
Physical damage to the USB connector or memory chips.
File system errors due to bad sectors.
Overuse or aging of the flash memory.
Identifying the reason for corruption can guide you toward the best recovery method.
Initial Steps Before Recovery
When your SanDisk Ultra USB flash drive appears corrupted, avoid writing new files to it. Continuing to use the drive may overwrite existing data, making recovery harder. Instead, safely remove it and reconnect to another USB port or computer to rule out port-specific issues.
Methods to Recover Files from a Corrupted SanDisk Ultra USB
1. Use Built-in Windows or Mac Tools
On Windows, open Command Prompt and run chkdsk X: /f (replace X with your USB drive letter). This scans and attempts to repair file system errors.
On Mac, use Disk Utility and select “First Aid” to repair the USB drive.
These tools may restore access without additional software.
2. Try Data Recovery Software
If system tools fail, specialized data recovery software can help. Programs like Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, Disk Drill, or Stellar Data Recovery can scan your SanDisk USB drive and retrieve lost files, even if the file system is damaged. Most offer a free version to preview recoverable files before purchasing.
3. Format the Drive After Recovery
Once files are successfully recovered, format the USB flash drive to restore normal functionality. On Windows, right-click the drive and choose Format; on Mac, use Disk Utility > Erase. Formatting wipes existing data but rebuilds the file system, making the drive usable again.
When Professional Help Is Needed
If your SanDisk Ultra flash drive has physical damage (like bent connectors or water exposure), software tools won’t help. In such cases, consider professional data recovery services. Although they can be costly, they often succeed in retrieving critical files from severely damaged drives.
Preventing Future USB Corruption
To reduce the risk of corruption:
Always eject your USB safely before unplugging.
Avoid exposing it to heat, moisture, or physical impact.
Keep backups of important files on cloud storage or external drives.
Regularly scan your system for malware.
Final Thoughts
Recovering files from a corrupted SanDisk Ultra USB flash drive is often possible if you act quickly and use the right methods. Start with built-in repair tools, move to reliable recovery software if necessary, and seek professional help for physical damage. With preventive care and regular backups, you can minimize future data loss risks.