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Despite all the modern technology we have, it can still be difficult at times to send large files over the internet. That’s when file compression software comes in handy. You may not have access to cloud storage services, or file sharing services, for example. However you can compress files to reduce for the easier file transfer.
File compressor tools use advanced processes to breakdown files into smaller chunks to reduce their overall file size. This process is done in a way that ensures information isn’t loss, and there is no degradation to the quality of the files.
In this article, we look at the best file compression software available – there is a wide range of programs to choose from, but not all of them are worthwhile. We have hand-picked 6 of the most reputable programs available that can effectively compress large batches of files:
1. WinZip – legendary file compressor
WinZip is the first file size reducer most people think of when discussing file compression software. It is hugely popular and a comprehensive tool. Using this software, you can easily compress large files into a variety of supported outputs. Supported Files are Zip, Tar, GZip, Cab, Rar, 7z, IMG, ISO, XZ, and more.
In addition, this file shrinker is relatively easy to use – the different controls and tools are easy to understand. Even beginners can quickly understand how to compress files. The only downside is that it is a paid program only – the one-off price isn’t too steep, however.
OS: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista
Licensing: Shareware, $31.14 on-off purchase
Our Rating: 10 / 10
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2. 7-Zip – completely free file compression software
7-Zip is another widely popular file size reducer. It is one of the best data compression programs available as it is free, but also because it has excellent compression tools. The basic interface of this program looks quit dated, but it is relatively easy to use. The supported formats are 7z, Zip, Tar, Xz, GZip, Wim, RAR, RPM, AR, and others.
This file size reducer has support for a wide range of archive file types, and also uses its proprietary 7z file format too. This program is best at compressing large files and has brilliant performance and quick speeds.
OS: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista
Licensing: Open source
Our Rating: 10 / 10
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3. WinRAR – reliable compression program
Aside from WinZip, WinRAR is the second most popular file compression software. It has been around since WinZip and has a huge following. You can test this program in a trial version, but after that, you must purchase it for a small one-off fee. The supported formats are Rar, Cab, Zip, UUE, 7z, ACE, ARJ, TAR.
WinRAR is possibly the best solution for multimedia files compression and it also uses its proprietary RAR archive format which allows for much higher data compression rates. One of the main downsides of this excellent file size reducer, is that the features aren’t exactly user-friendly – it does take a while to get used to the controls and tools.
OS: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP
Licensing: Shareware, $29.95 one-off purchase
Our Rating: 10 / 10
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4. PeaZip — popular data compression program
PeaZip is a top-rated program to compress files that is available on both Windows and Linux devices. Furthermore, it is free to use and has a quick installation process and small software size. Among the supported formats you can find 7z, BZ, Gzip, Raw, Tar, Cab, Arj, and other.
Possibly it’s best feature of the file compressor is that it supports over 150 different file formats including common archiving types like TAR, 7z, and CAB. Aside from the basic file compression, PeaZip also allows users to add security features to their files for enhanced protection.
OS: Windows, Linux
Licensing: Freeware
Our Rating: 10 / 10
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5. Hamster Zip Archiver – simple to use tool to compress files
Hamster Zip Archiver is a great file shrinker that puts usability first. It has an excellent interface that uses simple drag and drop commands. This is suitable for beginners and those who may not be familiar with how file compression software works. Program supports the following file formats: Rar, Cab, Zip, UUE, 7z, ACE, ARJ, TAR, and others.
Hamster Zip Archiver is also free to use and has support for hundreds of different archive file types. In addition to this, the file compressor has cloud support so you can upload files directly to cloud services like Dropbox or Google Drive.
OS: Windows 10, 8, 7
Licensing: Freeware
Our Rating: 7 / 10
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6. Zipware — standard file compression software
Last but not least we have Zipware file size reducer. This is a program that is often overlooked but it is free to use and does have a great set of tools for file compression. It supports a multitude of archive file types including 7 Zip, 7z, Rar, ISO, VHD, TAR, etc.
The program is OK to use, but it could take a while to get used to the controls and layout. Once you are accustomed to the file compressor, however, you will quickly make use of the advanced archiving tools.
OS: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP
Licensing: Freeware
Our Rating: 7 / 10
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We hope you have found this article useful. You should now have confidence and be able to choose one of the best file compression software programs. When choosing a program, be sure to consider the price, compression method, and supported file types. Remember that not all file types can be compressed, and different software will only support select file types for compression. Moreover, ensure that the compression is lossless, and that there is no loss in file quality. For example, if images are compressed, make sure that it doesn’t reduce the resolution of the images.