Comparisons & alternatives · Backup and cloning tools
Time Machine, Data Backup, Restore Points or the Recycle Vault — which one gets my file back?
Short answer: Removed by Storage Studio: the Recycle Vault. Moved by Storage Studio: Restore Points or move back. An older version or something you deleted yourself: Data Backup or Time Machine.
It depends on what happened to the file:
- Storage Studio removed it (for example clearing duplicates or other clear-ups) — the Recycle Vault. Removed items wait there, recoverable, for about six months.
- Storage Studio moved it and you want it back where it was — Restore Points (Roll Back Last Batch) or a move back. Restore points hold Storage Studio's records, not copies of your files.
- You need an older version, or a file you deleted yourself — Data Backup, if that folder is in a backup set, or Time Machine, which backs up your whole Mac.
The Recycle Vault and Restore Points are safety nets for Storage Studio's own actions; Data Backup and Time Machine are your backups. See Restore Points vs Data Backup and the Recycle Vault.