Best File Compression / Decompression Tool
File compression is used to pack large files into a small container format that allows for easy downloading and emailing. The ZIP file format is the most common and widely supported format; many operating systems have some form of basic compression/decompression for ZIP files. The RAR format is gaining popularity as well, but no major operating systems support the format, meaning you’ll need a separate program to pack and unpack RAR files. Most of these programs are free and easy to install, so don’t be afraid if you end up needing programs like these to compress/decompress files.
Why it's best:
WinRAR has been around for over 15 years and continues to be the gold standard for file compression tools. Although you’ll need to pay $30 for a license to get past the nag screens, WinRAR is fully functional in its unlicensed (free) mode. Support includes standard fil... read full review
Why it's a best pick:
PeaZip is actually what is known as a “front end”, using 3rd party code and programming to do the work while providing a common, easy to use program for users. This program supports almost any compressed format out there, with the ability to extract many obscure ...
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Why it's a best pick:
Windows can at least decompress basic ZIP files, but you’re left stranded by Mac OS X when it comes to decompressing files. MacZip does exactly what the name states -- zips/unzips files on the Mac OS operating system. There aren’t very many features and support i...
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Why it's a best pick:
7-Zip is a lightweight, open source (free, unprotected) compression tool that has been successfully ported to many common and not so common operating systems like Windows, Linux, Unix and Mac OS X. Unlike many commercial programs, 7-Zip supports 256 bit AES encryption which ...
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Why it's a best pick:
WinZip began as the de facto zipping/unzipping utility before Microsoft brought support for the ZIP file format with Windows XP. Since then, WinZip has been acquired by Corel (maker of Word Perfect), which has added a trusted name to an otherwise “3rd party” prog...
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