Data sharing is the backbone of effective team collaboration. Sharing small files via email is possible, but sharing becomes a problem when the data size exceeds many gigabytes.
As a solution to this problem, almost all operating systems allow users to compress large amounts of data into smaller packets for easy sharing. Since the use of third-party tools simplifies the file compression process, we will introduce you to some of the best file compression software next.
How does file compression work?
In general, file compression refers to reducing the actual size of the data while preserving the information in it. This makes it easy for people to share data – consuming less bandwidth and data space, and saving a lot of time for senders and receivers.
The best third-party file compression tool for Windows
There are hundreds of file compression programs available on the web, each with its pros and cons, here are four of the best that you should give a try:
1. WinRAR
WinRAR, a popular compression tool, can be the best choice for all your compression needs. WinRAR’s official website shows that more than 500 million people have used the software, which speaks volumes about its reliability and credibility.
No matter how big the file you need to compress, WinRAR can handle it quickly. You can name any popular compression format, and WinRAR will most likely support it. In addition, it performs equally well on every version of Windows.
In addition, WinRAR cares about the security of your data, and it comes with 256-bit password encryption to ensure that no one can access your files, no matter what attempts they make. WinRAR offers a 40-day free trial, so you can test its features before deciding whether to buy it or not.
It has only one drawback: the user interface is not beginner-friendly. You will have to spend a little time in the first few times before getting used to it. As long as you don’t mind, WinRAR should be enough for your compression needs.
Download: WinRAR for Windows (Free, in-app purchases available)
2. WinZip
WinZip is another popular Windows file compression software. It compresses small files fairly quickly, but according to our tests, it tends to take longer to compress large files. With WinZip, you can quickly share compressed files, so when you compress a file, you can share it with others with just a few clicks.
In addition, with smooth encryption, you can share compressed files with complete confidence without worrying about unauthorized access. Also, since you can integrate it with your preferred cloud storage service, relocating data between on-premises and cloud storage will be easy.
With a beginner-friendly interface, you won’t have any difficulty getting used to it. You can access your files in the same way as a file manager, so finding your files will be a breeze. WinZip can also compress most file types, and if you are often distressed by duplicate files slipping into your compressed folder, this program can help you avoid this problem.
While WinZip doesn’t offer a free version, it does offer an evaluation version. You need to subscribe to the premium version to get the full benefits of the software and get the most out of it. The product list page on the WinZip website lists the different pricing plans and what each plan offers.
Download: WinZip for Windows (Evaluation version, in-app purchases available)
3. Express Zip
Among the best compression tools, Express Zip is another reputable name. The software doesn’t have a visually appealing interface, but its drag-and-drop feature makes compressing dozens of files a breeze.
In addition, convenient file sharing is one of the main features of this software, and support for more than thirty different formats is the most important. However, it tends to get a little slower when compressing huge files.
It is also easy to password protect the compressed file before sharing it, and the data is encrypted to protect it from prying eyes. You can also choose the compression level you prefer, the tool is either fast but larger in size, or deeply compressed but slower.
Although Express Zip offers most of the free features for basic file compression, it does offer a commercial version. Please check the Express Zip product listing page for pricing details.
Download: Express Zip for Windows (Free, in-app purchases available)
4. Bandizip
Bandizip is another less popular but helpful file compression tool. While its free version allows for basic compression, its premium version offers plenty of additional features. Please check its prices on their official website.
Bandizip is the first choice for Windows users because it combines efficient compression and encryption features. It’s six times more compression than average, and AES256’s encryption algorithm ensures your data isn’t being spied on.
Bandizip’s interface is super smooth, with instructions for every step of the file compression process, so it’s perfect for beginners and non-technologists alike. In addition to detecting malware in compressed files, the software also alerts you to potential threats when adding new files to keep your computer safe.
Download: Bandizip for Windows (Free, in-app purchases available)
Easily share files with file compression software
Now that you know how file compression works and can save you a lot of bandwidth and time, you can try the four third-party tools in the list above. Since they both offer free versions, you should try them all out and choose the one that suits you best.
