---
id: comparisons.which-tool-gets-my-file-back
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/comparisons/which-tool-gets-my-file-back
category: "Comparisons & alternatives"
subcategory: "Backup and cloning tools"
question: "Time Machine, Data Backup, Restore Points or the Recycle Vault — which one gets my file back?"
alt_questions:
  - "which Storage Studio feature restores deleted files"
  - "Restore Points vs Recycle Vault vs Time Machine"
  - "how do I get back a file Storage Studio removed"
  - "recover an older version of a document Mac"
  - "which backup should I restore from"
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."
tags: ["restore", "recycle vault", "restore points", "time machine"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/comparisons/recycle-vault-vs-time-machine-for-deleted-files", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/comparisons/restore-points-vs-macos-local-snapshots"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# Time Machine, Data Backup, Restore Points or the Recycle Vault — which one gets my file back?

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](https://storagestudio.us/faq/backups/restore-points-vs-data-backup) and [the Recycle Vault](https://storagestudio.us/faq/freeing-space/what-is-the-recycle-vault).