TestDisk and PhotoRec are powerful open-source utilities designed for data recovery across multiple platforms, including Mac. These tools focus on recovering lost partitions, restoring master boot sectors, and retrieving lost files without requiring a graphical user interface. Users must operate these applications via Terminal, which may require consultation of the user guide for assistance.

TestDisk supports a wide range of file systems, particularly those associated with Mac OS X, such as HFS, HFS+, and HFSX, allowing for partition structure recovery. Additionally, it can restore the master boot sector for FAT12, FAT16, FAT32, and NTFS systems. PhotoRec complements TestDisk by specializing in file recovery from various devices, including hard drives, USB drives, memory cards, and multimedia players, making it a versatile choice for users in need of data restoration.