How to Retrieve Lost .M2TS Files on Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .M2TS file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

How to Retrieve Lost .M2TS Files on Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS

What is a .M2TS file?

Video file saved in the high-definition Blu-ray BDAV format; used for saving video data on Blu-ray discs; based on the MPEG-2 transport stream and supports 720p and 1080i formats.

What Are Common Causes of ".M2TS" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes of ".M2TS" files lost or failure, including:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may mistakenly delete ".M2TS" files while managing their files, leading to permanent loss.
  2. Formatting errors: If the storage device containing ".M2TS" files is formatted incorrectly or becomes corrupted, it can result in data loss.
  3. File system corruption: File system errors or corruption can make ".M2TS" files inaccessible or cause them to get lost.
  4. Power failure: Unexpected power outages or sudden system shutdowns while working with ".M2TS" files can lead to file loss or corruption.
  5. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect and damage ".M2TS" files, rendering them unusable or causing them to disappear.
  6. Hardware failure: Problems with the storage device such as a hard drive or memory card can result in the loss of ".M2TS" files.
  7. Software or application issues: Errors or bugs in media players, video editing software, or other applications used to handle ".M2TS" files can cause data loss or failure.
  8. Improper file transfer: Interrupted or incomplete file transfers between devices can lead to ".M2TS" file loss or corruption.
  9. Physical damage: Physical damage to the storage device, such as dropping it or exposing it to extreme temperatures, can result in the loss of ".M2TS" files.
  10. Human error: Mistakes made by users, such as accidental formatting, improper handling of storage devices, or unintentional overwriting of ".M2TS" files, can lead to data loss.

How to recover lost ".M2TS" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".M2TS" file may be deleted.

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🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".M2TS" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".M2TS" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".M2TS" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 4.9
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
Download

Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software
  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".M2TS" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type
  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored
  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan
  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery
  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".M2TS" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo blu-ray BDAV Video File image file file?

Programs that open ".M2TS" files

Windows
File Viewer Plus File Viewer Plus
Microsoft Windows Media Player Microsoft Windows Media Player
Adobe Flash Professional CC Adobe Flash Professional CC
Roxio Creator NXT Pro 7 Roxio Creator NXT Pro 7
CyberLink PowerDVD 17 CyberLink PowerDVD 17
CyberLink PowerDirector 15 Ultra CyberLink PowerDirector 15 Ultra
CyberLink PowerProducer 6 CyberLink PowerProducer 6
Sony Picture Motion Browser Sony Picture Motion Browser
MAGIX VEGAS Pro 17 MAGIX VEGAS Pro 17
Audials One 2019 Audials One 2019
VideoLAN VLC media player VideoLAN VLC media player
Mirillis Splash Mirillis Splash
Mac
Adobe Flash Professional CC Adobe Flash Professional CC
Roxio Toast 18 Roxio Toast 18
VideoLAN VLC media player VideoLAN VLC media player
Linux
VideoLAN VLC media player VideoLAN VLC media player

Additional Information

  • File type: Blu-ray BDAV Video File

  • File extension: .M2TS

  • Developer: Sony

  • Category: Video Files

  • Format: Binary

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 16:53 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .M2TS files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What are some common reasons for encountering problems when trying to open .M2TS files?

    There can be several reasons for encountering problems when trying to open .M2TS files. Some common reasons include:

    1. Incompatible Media Player: If the media player you are using does not support the .M2TS file format, you may encounter issues while trying to open the file. Not all media players are capable of playing this specific format.
    2. Codec Issues: Sometimes, the required codec to decode the .M2TS file may be missing or outdated on your computer. This can result in errors or playback problems when trying to open the file.
    3. Corrupted File: If the .M2TS file is corrupted or incomplete, it may not open properly. This can happen due to issues during the file transfer, download, or storage.
    4. Insufficient Hardware Resources: .M2TS files are high-definition video files that require a significant amount of processing power and system resources to play smoothly. If your computer does not meet the minimum hardware requirements, you may experience problems while opening or playing these files.
    5. DRM Protection: Some .M2TS files may be protected by digital rights management (DRM) restrictions. If you do not have the necessary permissions or licenses to access the file, you may encounter difficulties while opening it.
    6. File Association Issues: If the file association for .M2TS files is not set correctly on your computer, you may face problems when attempting to open them. This can happen if the default program for opening .M2TS files is not properly configured.
    7. Operating System Compatibility: Certain operating systems may have limitations or lack support for .M2TS files. Ensure that your operating system is compatible with this file format.
    8. Outdated Software: If you are using outdated or incompatible software to open .M2TS files, it may lead to errors or difficulties in opening the files. Make sure your software is up to date.
    9. File Size: If the .M2TS file is extremely large, it may take longer to open or may cause performance issues on your computer.
    10. File Corruption during Conversion: If the .M2TS file was converted from another format, there is a possibility of data corruption during the conversion process, leading to problems when opening the file.

    It is recommended to ensure that you have a compatible media player, up-to-date software, sufficient hardware resources, and a non-corrupted file to avoid encountering problems when opening .M2TS files.

  • What are some troubleshooting steps to fix issues with opening .M2TS files?
    1. Check the file format: Ensure that the file extension is correctly labeled as ".M2TS". If it is not, rename the file to have the correct extension.
    2. Use a compatible media player: Verify that you are using a media player that supports .M2TS files. Popular options include VLC Media Player, Windows Media Player, and MPC-HC. If your current player does not support .M2TS files, try using a different media player.
    3. Update your media player: Make sure your media player is up to date. Outdated versions may not have the necessary codecs or features to open .M2TS files. Check for updates and install any available updates for your media player.
    4. Install necessary codecs: Some media players require additional codecs to play certain file formats. Install a codec pack like K-Lite Codec Pack or Combined Community Codec Pack (CCCP) to ensure your media player has the necessary codecs to open .M2TS files.
    5. Repair or reinstall the media player: If the media player itself is experiencing issues, try repairing or reinstalling it. Go to the Control Panel (Windows) or the Applications folder (Mac) to uninstall the media player, then download and reinstall it from the official website.
    6. Check for file corruption: If the .M2TS file is corrupted, it may not open properly. Try opening other .M2TS files or different media files to determine if the issue is specific to that file. If other files open without any problems, the original .M2TS file may be corrupt or damaged.
    7. Use a video converter: If all else fails, consider using a video converter to convert the .M2TS file to a different format that is compatible with your media player. Tools like HandBrake or Freemake Video Converter can convert the file to a more widely supported format like .MP4 or .MKV.
    8. Seek professional help: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it may be necessary to consult a professional technician or contact the software manufacturer for further assistance.
  • Are there any specific software or tools available to help resolve problems with opening .M2TS files?

    Yes, there are several software and tools available that can help resolve problems with opening .M2TS files. Some of these tools include:

    1. VLC Media Player: VLC is a popular media player that can open and play .M2TS files. It is a free and open-source software available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
    2. MPC-HC (Media Player Classic - Home Cinema): MPC-HC is another media player that supports .M2TS files. It is lightweight and offers a user-friendly interface. It is also free and available for Windows.
    3. FFmpeg: FFmpeg is a command-line tool that can open, convert, and analyze multimedia files, including .M2TS files. It is a powerful and versatile tool available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
    4. HandBrake: HandBrake is a video transcoder that can convert .M2TS files to other formats. It is free and available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
    5. Aiseesoft M2TS Converter: Aiseesoft M2TS Converter is a dedicated software for converting and editing .M2TS files. It supports various output formats and offers additional features like video editing and enhancing. It is available for Windows and Mac.

    These are just a few examples, and there are many other software and tools available as well. It is recommended to try different options to find the one that works best for your specific needs.

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