How to Recover .MP4 Files from Damaged Hard Drives 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 .MP4 file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

How to Recover .MP4 Files from Damaged Hard Drives on Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .MP4 file?

An MP4 file is a multimedia file commonly used to store a movie or video clip, but may also contain subtitles or images. MP4 is short for MPEG-4 Part 14, which is a container format based on the QuickTime File Format (QTFF) used by .MOV and .QT files.

What Are Common Causes of ".MP4" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes of ".MP4" file loss or failure:

  1. Accidental deletion: This is one of the most common causes. Users may accidentally delete ".MP4" files while organizing or deleting other files.
  2. File system corruption: If the file system of the storage device where the ".MP4" files are stored gets corrupted, it can lead to file loss or failure.
  3. Virus or malware attack: If a storage device containing ".MP4" files gets infected with a virus or malware, it can corrupt or delete the files.
  4. Power failure: Sudden power outages or improper shutdowns while working with ".MP4" files can cause corruption or loss of data.
  5. Physical damage to storage media: If the storage device containing ".MP4" files gets physically damaged, such as due to dropping or water damage, it can result in file loss or failure.
  6. Formatting errors: Accidentally formatting the storage device without taking a backup can lead to permanent loss of ".MP4" files.
  7. Software or hardware malfunctions: Issues with the media player, video editing software, or hardware components like the hard drive or memory card can cause ".MP4" file failure.
  8. File transfer errors: If there are interruptions or errors during the transfer of ".MP4" files from one device to another, it can result in incomplete or corrupted files.
  9. Incompatible codecs: If the required codecs to play or edit ".MP4" files are not installed or are incompatible with the media player or software being used, it can cause failure in playing or editing the files.
  10. Intentional deletion or formatting: Sometimes, ".MP4" files may be intentionally deleted or formatted by users, resulting in their loss.

It is important to regularly backup ".MP4" files to prevent permanent loss and to use reliable data recovery software if any loss or failure occurs.

How to recover lost ".MP4" 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 ".MP4" file may be deleted.

Go to view
🧺 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 ".MP4" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".MP4" 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 ".MP4" 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 ".MP4" 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 ".MP4" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo mPEG-4 Video File image file file?

Programs that open ".MP4" files

Windows
File Viewer Plus File Viewer Plus
Microsoft Movies & TV Microsoft Movies & TV
Microsoft Windows Media Player Microsoft Windows Media Player
Nullsoft Winamp Nullsoft Winamp
Roxio Creator NXT Pro 7 Roxio Creator NXT Pro 7
Corel VideoStudio 2019 Corel VideoStudio 2019
CyberLink PowerDVD 17 CyberLink PowerDVD 17
VideoLAN VLC media player VideoLAN VLC media player
Wondershare Filmora Wondershare Filmora
MPlayer MPlayer
Other <a href=movie player"> Other movie player
Mac
Apple QuickTime Player Apple QuickTime Player
Apple iTunes Apple iTunes
Roxio Toast 18 Roxio Toast 18
Eltima Elmedia Player Eltima Elmedia Player
VideoLAN VLC media player VideoLAN VLC media player
Wondershare Filmora Wondershare Filmora
MPlayer MPlayer
Other <a href=movie player"> Other movie player
Linux
VideoLAN VLC media player VideoLAN VLC media player
MPlayer MPlayer
iOS
Apple Music Apple Music
olimsoft OPlayer olimsoft OPlayer
PentaLoop PlayerXtreme Media Player PentaLoop PlayerXtreme Media Player
Google Drive Google Drive
Android
File Viewer for Android File Viewer for Android
BIT LABS Simple MP4 Video Player BIT LABS Simple MP4 Video Player
Google Drive Google Drive
Videolabs VLC for Android Videolabs VLC for Android

Additional Information

  • File type: MPEG-4 Video File

  • File extension: .MP4

  • Developer: Moving Picture Experts Group

  • Category: Video Files

  • Format: Binary

  • Mime-type: video/mp4

  • HEX: 00 00 00

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We will be happy to answer your questions!

Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 13:34 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .MP4 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 the common causes of MP4 file corruption or loss, and how can I recover them?

    There are several common causes of MP4 file corruption or loss, including:

    1. File system errors: Issues with the file system can lead to corruption of MP4 files.
    2. Improper file transfer: If the MP4 file is not transferred properly, it can get corrupted.
    3. Interruptions during file transfer: If there is a sudden interruption or failure during the transfer of MP4 files, it can result in corruption.
    4. Malware or virus attacks: MP4 files can get corrupted if they are infected by malware or viruses.
    5. Incomplete downloads: If the MP4 file is not downloaded completely, it can be corrupted.

    To recover MP4 files, you can try the following methods:

    1. Use a backup: If you have a backup of the MP4 files, restore them from the backup.
    2. Use file repair software: There are various software tools available that can repair corrupted MP4 files. These tools can fix the file structure and make the file playable again.
    3. Convert the file format: If the MP4 file is severely corrupted and cannot be repaired, you can try converting it to a different format using video conversion software. This may help salvage some of the data.
    4. Seek professional help: In extreme cases, where the MP4 file is severely damaged and cannot be recovered using software tools, you may need to seek professional data recovery services. They have specialized techniques and equipment to recover data from damaged files.

    It is always recommended to regularly backup your important files to prevent loss or corruption.

  • Are there any reliable software or tools available for MP4 file recovery? If so, which ones are recommended?

    Yes, there are several reliable software and tools available for MP4 file recovery. Here are a few recommended ones:

    1. Recuva: Recuva is a popular and user-friendly file recovery tool that supports MP4 file recovery. It can recover files from various storage devices, including hard drives, SD cards, and USB drives.
    2. Stellar Data Recovery: Stellar Data Recovery is a comprehensive data recovery software that supports the recovery of various file formats, including MP4. It offers a simple interface and advanced scanning options for efficient recovery.
    3. Disk Drill: Disk Drill is another powerful data recovery tool that supports MP4 file recovery. It provides both free and paid versions, with the paid version offering advanced features like recovery vault and guaranteed recovery.
    4. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is a reliable software that can recover deleted, formatted, or lost MP4 files. It supports various storage devices and provides a straightforward recovery process.

    Remember to always backup your important files to prevent data loss and regularly update your backups to ensure their reliability.

  • Is it possible to recover deleted or lost MP4 files from a formatted or damaged storage device? If yes, what are the steps involved in the recovery process?

    Yes, it is possible to recover deleted or lost MP4 files from a formatted or damaged storage device. The steps involved in the recovery process may vary depending on the specific software or method used, but here is a general outline:

    1. Stop using the storage device: Once you realize that your MP4 files are lost or deleted, it is crucial to stop using the storage device immediately. Continued usage can overwrite the deleted files, making them irretrievable.
    2. Choose a data recovery software: There are several data recovery software options available, both free and paid. Research and choose a reliable and reputable software that supports MP4 file recovery.
    3. Install and run the software: Download and install the chosen data recovery software on a different drive or computer. Running the software on the same drive where the lost files were stored may cause permanent data loss.
    4. Connect the storage device: Connect the formatted or damaged storage device to the computer where the recovery software is installed. Ensure it is recognized by the computer.
    5. Scan for lost MP4 files: Launch the data recovery software and initiate a scan on the connected storage device. Most software offers options for quick or deep scans. Start with a quick scan and if desired files are not found, proceed with a deep scan.
    6. Preview and select MP4 files for recovery: Once the scan is complete, the software will display a list of recoverable files. Preview the found MP4 files to ensure they are intact and select the ones you want to recover.
    7. Recover the selected MP4 files: After selecting the desired MP4 files, choose a safe location to save the recovered files. It is recommended to save them on a different drive to avoid overwriting.
    8. Check the recovered files: Once the recovery process is complete, navigate to the chosen location and verify that the recovered MP4 files are accessible and playable.

    Note that the success of the recovery process depends on various factors such as the extent of damage, overwriting, or formatting that has occurred on the storage device. It is advisable to consult professional data recovery services if the files are highly valuable or if the recovery process seems complex.
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