What is a ZIP file?
ZIP (ZIP Archive) is the most common archive format, bundling and compressing many files into one. It was introduced in 1989 by PKWARE (Phil Katz).
What ZIP is good at
- Opens natively on Windows, Mac, iOS and Android
- Fast to create and extract
- Supports encryption
Where ZIP falls short
- Compresses less than 7Z or TAR.XZ
- File permissions are not always kept
When to use ZIP
- Emailing several files at once
- Sharing folders
- Downloads and software packages
Where ZIP files open
ZIP files open in Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android and every archive tool.
ZIP compared with 7Z
ZIP or 7Z? ZIP is best for emailing several files at once. 7Z is best for shrinking large folders. Convert ZIP to 7Z or convert 7Z to ZIP.
Frequently asked questions
What is a ZIP file?
ZIP (ZIP Archive) is the most common archive format, bundling and compressing many files into one. It was introduced in 1989 by PKWARE (Phil Katz).
What are the advantages of ZIP?
Opens natively on windows, mac, ios and android; fast to create and extract; supports encryption.
What are the drawbacks of ZIP?
Compresses less than 7z or tar.xz; file permissions are not always kept.
What programs open ZIP files?
ZIP files open in Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android and every archive tool.
How do I convert a ZIP file?
Choose the ZIP converter you need from the list on this page, drop in your file and press Convert. You get your new file in seconds, free and without sign-up.