Easiest Way to Recover Deleted M2T Files

How to recover deleted M2T files? The easiest and most effective method is to use data recovery software. I’ll introduce you to one such software. Also, taking some precautions is necessary.

Ivy

By Ivy / Updated on May 9, 2024

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What Is M2T File?

The M2T or .m2t file is a video file generated by high-definition camcorders in the early 2000s and was popular during the transition from analog to desktop video production. It also stores animations, audio clips, and graphics up to a maximum resolution of 1080i.

M2T File

While they're old file formats, you can still recover deleted M2T files if you've lost them. It can be used and converted into Windows and macOS systems. So, if your original tapes are physically damaged, you can transfer them to another system and try to recover them.

Common Reasons for M2T File Deletion

Before delving into the recovery methods, it's essential to understand the common reasons why M2T files may get deleted. Some of the typical scenarios include:

  • accidental deletion
  • formatting errors
  • virus attacks
  • software issues
  • hardware failures

Can I Recover Deleted M2T Files?

In short, the answer is Yes, even if you cannot search them on the storage device. The deleted files will be moved to the Recycle Bin (if you are using a Windows system) first and then deleted permanently.

But Windows only deletes the reference path to your files at first, not the real data, and marks the occupied space as “free” for new data. In other words, if your data is not overwritten, there is a chance to recover them.

In order not to overwrite your data, please stop using your storage device immediately. Don’t t add new data or format it. In addition, act promptly and start M2T file recovery as soon as possible.

How to Recover Deleted M2T Files

In fact, there are many ways to recover deleted M2T based on the possible causes. But every attempt will reduce the success rate of data recovery. We recommend you use data recovery software like MyRecover, which usually has a high success rate and fast recovery speed in comparison. It even allows you to preview files before recovery.

  • Two scanning methods: Quick Scan & Deep Scan. It will scan your disk thoroughly and search for all the deleted or lost files including the M2T files.
  • Recover deleted files in over 200 file formats, such as M2T, AVI, MP4, VWX, JPG, SVG, HEIF, DOCX, TXT, XLS, etc.
  • Filter specific file types, such as images, videos, documents, audio, mails, etc. You can also set the date modified and size.
  • Keep the recovered files with their original file name, path, format, and quality, depending on the storage device you are using.
  • Support Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server.

In addition, the software does not require technical expertise and is friendly to novices, making the recovery process seamless. Please download this professional Windows data recovery software to have a try!

Download Software Windows 11/10/8/7/Server
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Step 1. Launch Windows data recovery software - MyRecover. Hover the mouse over the drive saved deleted files before, and click Scan.

select-location-to-scan

Step 2. It will run Quick Scan and Deep Scan automatically to find out all the deleted M2T files. To locate them quickly, use the Filter feature or go to the original location in the left panel.

scanning-drive

Step 3. Select your desired files and then click Recover x files to recover deleted M2T files. You will then be asked to select a location. Please select a new location instead of the original location to prevent potential data overwriting.

Recover Video Files

Notes:  

  • The restore button will display the number of selected files and their full size. You can use it to determine the integrity of the recovered files.
  • You can perform M2T file recovery for free, up to 500MB. Once exceeded, please upgrade to the advanced editions.
  • In addition, you still can use this software to recover different file types, such as recover deleted X3F, 3FR, WMV, DBF, ASPX, LAB, etc.

If you fail to recover deleted M2T files using software or the situation is complex, it's wise to seek help from data recovery services, such as Geek Squad. They usually employ experienced specialists and own advanced equipment to handle even the most challenging data recovery scenarios.

How to Open M2T Files on a Windows PC

The .m2t file format is dated and rarely used in modern systems. So they are even not recognized well without a specified program. However, you can use file conversion software such as Movavi Video Converter 2020 to convert them to more modern file formats.

Still, there are several programs that support the .m2t file format and are able to open it, such as Adobe Flash Professional CC, Adobe Premier, MPlayer, Corel VideoStudio 2020, Windows Media Player 12, and more. The previous three of these options are compatible with Mac systems.

To open M2T files, just right-click the files you want to open and select Open with. It will then show you some available software. Select the media player supporting the playback of files with the .m2t extension.

Open With

Tips for Preventing M2T File Loss in the Future

Tip 1: Regularly Backup Your Files

Backing up your M2T files immediately after data recovery and making it a habit in the future. A user-friendly Windows backup software like AOMEI Backupper Standard makes it easy, and especially useful for newbies.

Tip 2: Avoid Deleting Files Hastily

Double-check before deleting any files, M2T files, for example. Confirm that you no longer need them to prevent accidental deletions.

Tip 3: Don’t Use the Full Format Method

Windows will use the quick format method by default. It only deletes files from your disk and makes them invisible. But the full format method will overwrite data completely, making data recovery more difficult.

Tip 4: Use Reliable Storage Devices

Invest in high-quality and reliable storage devices to reduce the risk of hardware-related data loss.

Tip 5: Run Antivirus Software Regularly

Virus or malware infection is a common reason for M2T file deletion. To avoid this, it’s suggested to employ reliable antivirus software, such as Windows Defender, and scan your disk regularly to be sure your files are always safe.

Conclusion

Losing M2T files can be distressing, but with the right approach, you can recover deleted M2T files successfully. In comparison, data recovery software has the highest success rate and fast recovery speed.

In addition, to avoid further data loss, it’s suggested to employ reliable Windows backup software and create daily, weekly, monthly, etc. scheduled backups. It always gives you a chance to restore your files from backup images, regardless of data loss scenarios.

FAQs

Q1. Can I recover M2T files from a formatted storage device?
 
This varies depending on the formatting method. If you use the quick format method, the answer is Yes. But it will be more challenging if you use the full format method. Because it will overwrite data on the device.
Q2. Can I recover M2T files from a corrupted hard drive?
 
Data recovery from a corrupted hard drive is challenging, but professional data recovery services may have a better chance of retrieving the files.
Q3. How long does the data recovery process usually take?
 
The time for data recovery depends on various factors such as the size of the storage device, the number of files to recover, and the severity of storage damage. It can range from a few minutes to several hours.
Q4. How do I recover deleted M2T files on Mac systems?
 
Like the Window system, Mac also has a Trash folder for recent deleted files. Please check this folder first. If deleted files are not there, it may be deleted permanently. Try data recovery software for Mac, such as PhotoRec, or restore files from Time Machine (if there are any available backup copies).
Ivy
Ivy · Editor
Ivy is an editor of AOMEI Technology, she covers backup & restore,hard disk & partitions management and cloud files transfer and so on for AOMEI. She is an outgoing girl and enjoys helping people find solutions to their problems. She loves traveling, eating, reading and so on. She usually hangs out with friends at her leisure time.