In this guide, I’ll tell you about the best file compression apps , focusing primarily on the options available for Windows. I’ll also cover the most notable alternatives for Android devices.
Remember: if you know of any other apps worth mentioning, please feel free to share them in the comments at the end of the article. The comment section is open to everyone.
Table of Contents
Best applications to compress files in Windows
Okay, let’s start by talking about the best file compression apps for Windows. Before we go any further, just two notes. First, many of these apps are also available for Linux and macOS. And second, the vast majority are free, some even open source.
7-Zip
7-Zip is arguably the most popular free and open-source file compression program for Windows. It stands out for its high compression rate, especially with its native 7z format . It also supports a host of file formats for decompression, including ZIP, RAR, TAR, GZ, ISO, and many others. Its interface is simple and functional, although not the most modern.
Its integration with the Windows context menu makes compression and extraction tasks much easier, although it’s not currently compatible with the new Windows 11 menus . However, it also offers AES-256 encryption to protect your files. It’s one of the best options currently available.
WinRAR
WinRAR is a classic. Although it’s technically trial software that requires you to purchase a license after a period of time, it allows users to use it indefinitely with all its features, displaying only a warning. It’s known for being very reliable and very useful for managing RAR files.
However, in addition to RAR and ZIP, it decompresses many other formats. It offers advanced features such as creating self-extracting archives , splitting large files, repairing damaged files, and secure encryption. Its interface hasn’t evolved much, but that’s typical of this type of application, so I don’t hold it against it.
PeaZip
PeaZip is another excellent free and open-source alternative . It supports an impressive number of formats, both for opening and extracting, including its own PEA format. Its interface is a bit more modern and visually pleasing than 7-Zip’s, and it’s highly customizable.
In addition to the basic features, PeaZip includes security tools such as two-factor authentication, secure file deletion, and a password manager. A complete option that you won’t have to pay anything for.
Bandizip
Bandizip has earned a reputation for being extremely fast and lightweight , as well as having a slightly more modern interface. Its free version is more than sufficient for most users, supporting popular formats for extraction and compression. One of its standout features is the file preview, which allows you to view the content without extracting it.
It offers useful features such as multi-core compression to speed up the process, creation of self-extracting archives, and support for Unicode filenames. A paid version adds practical tools, such as a password manager and archive repairer.
WinZip
Like WinRAR, WinZip is another of the most recognized and veteran names in file compression. It’s commercial software, although it offers a trial period. It stands out for its ease of use, integration with cloud services , and additional features such as PDF conversion, adding watermarks, and image resizing.
Although its primary format is ZIP, it also supports many other extraction formats. WinZip focuses on offering a complete solution for file management , not just compression, but also includes security and sharing tools. It’s a premium option for users looking for advanced features and the best support. In fact, it may be one of the best options for businesses.
NanaZip
NanaZip is a modern fork of 7-Zip , specifically designed to take advantage of the latest versions of Windows. It maintains 7-Zip’s power and format compatibility, but offers better integration with the modern Windows 11 context menu and a design that better matches the operating system’s aesthetic.
Being based on 7-Zip, it inherits all of its strengths, such as being open source, auditable, and completely free. I think it’s the most interesting option if you like 7-Zip but are looking for a more polished visual experience.
ezyZip
Finally, let me tell you about ezyZip, a free online tool that lets you zip and unzip files directly from your browser, without having to install any software . It’s a very practical option for quick tasks or if you’re using a computer where you can’t install software, such as the one at your school or work.
It works very simply: just drag and drop files onto the web or select them from your computer. Then, perform the operation you prefer. You can extract RAR files, compress files, or reduce the size of a set of images.
Apps to compress files on Android
After taking a look at the best file compression apps for the most popular desktop operating system, I now want to take a look at the tools available for Android, the most widely used mobile operating system. Here are my personal picks:
- RAR . Developed by the creators of WinRAR, this app is one of the most comprehensive. It allows you to create RAR and ZIP files, and decompress RAR, ZIP, TAR, GZ, BZ2, XZ, 7z, ISO, and ARJ files. It includes repair, benchmark, and encryption functions.
- ZArchiver . A very popular and lightweight free application. It supports the creation of 7z, zip, tar, bzip2, gzip, and XZ archives, as well as the decompression of a huge number of formats. Its interface is simple yet highly functional.
- WinZip . The mobile version of WinZip allows you to create and extract ZIP and ZIPX files, and decompress other formats such as RAR and 7z. It integrates with cloud services and offers encryption.
- Files by Google . Although its primary function is file management and space clearing, this browser also allows you to easily extract the contents of ZIP files, providing a basic but useful option. You may even already have it installed.
I recommend you check out the best alternatives to Winrar . And you, which file compression apps do you prefer? Let me know in the comments section.
